MCAC’s Talent Attraction Program Helps Companies Hire Ideal Candidates

Melissa Johnson, Executive Director of the Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC), knows this region is packed with good companies to work for. The member database is full of employers from different industries that are ready to grow and hire local workers.

She also knows that Montgomery County has countless talented individuals who are ready to work hard and grow their skills. This led her to develop Love, Montgomery County, a talent attraction campaign to facilitate the pairing of workers and employers.  

“Love, Montgomery County supports employment and job growth in all corners of Montgomery County,” says Johnson. “Our goal is to make it easier for companies to close hiring gaps so they can increase productivity while helping job-seekers find lasting careers.”

Learn more about this program through the stories of employers and employees who benefited from it. 

Shawna Cron Becomes the New Administrative Assistant for American Homes Realty

Carla Jones LeLaCheur, owner and broker at American Homes Realty, had worked with her previous administrative assistant for 22 years. When her assistant retired, she needed to hire someone who was just as reliable and could quickly pick up on her real estate processes. With competitive labor market conditions and low unemployment, LeLaCheur was concerned about recruiting talent to fill this important role.

LeLaCheur heard about the Love, Montgomery County campaign and worked with MCAC to develop an employee retention incentive. She eventually hired Shawna Cron who applied for  MCAC’s recruitment and retention incentive match.  

Cron received a $2,000 retention bonus after her first 60 days at American Homes Realty and will receive four additional $2,000 retention bonuses annually on her start date anniversary. This is a total retention bonus of $10,000, half of which is paid by American Homes Realty. MCAC matched the rest.

“I am grateful for this program and the investment Carla is making in me,” said Cron.

This program encourages job seekers to apply for specific roles while providing financial incentives to stay in their positions. Employees receive monetary bonuses while employers can feel confident that they are hiring for the long term.  

“Montgomery County is fortunate to have local employers who are committed to keeping our local talent local and for investing in their loyal employees,” says Melissa Johnson, Executive Director at MCAC.

Maren Lagaly Becomes the Newest Communications and Special Projects Coordinator at MCAC

MCAC is also a product of its own success. Johnson used the talent attraction program to fill a position within the economic development organization to support its communications efforts.  

Maren Lagaly moved to Montgomery County in June, following her husband’s relocation here in April 2023. She was torn about what her next career move would be. Eventually, her passion for community involvement won out, and she submitted her resume to Love, Montgomery County. It was picked up by Johnson, who brought her on to the MCAC team.

“I’m really excited to tell the story of economic development and quality of life in Montgomery County,” says Lagaly. “Enhancing community connection is important to me.”

So far, Lagaly has been impressed by the various towns in Montgomery County. She speaks highly of the young professionals who want to see the region grow and the neighborhood leaders who manage groups of volunteers to make festivals and events successful throughout the year.

“I’ve really enjoyed the people here,” says Lagaly. “There are a lot of folks who care about the community and want to see Montgomery County prosper.”

Submit Your Resume or Job Listing to MCAC

MCAC is currently accepting resumes from residents who want to find work in Montgomery County or applicants who are interested in moving to the area. Employers can access resumes through MCAC’s talent pool portal, promote job listings, share incentives, and market their companies through their MCAC membership. The talent attraction program can support employment in Montgomery County and help people find lasting careers.

If you are a local business owner but you aren’t a member, join the Montgomery County Action Council today and support economic development in the region.