How the Next Generation is Shaping the Future of Our Family Business
By Reese Lapp
Tradition lays the foundation of a family business, but it’s the vision of the next generation that shapes its future. At Lapp Electric, we’re currently a second-generation family-owned company, and over the past 8 months since I joined, I’ve found myself asking: What does the future look like? How do we honor what’s been built while also growing, evolving, and making space for new ideas?
It’s a unique position to be in, stepping into something that’s already been established, successful, and deeply rooted in the community for over 50 years. There’s pride in continuing the legacy, but there’s also pressure. Not the kind that’s heavy or overwhelming, but the kind that pushes you to think deeply and take ownership of where things go from here.
What I’ve learned quickly is that the next generation doesn’t have to come in with all the answers. We’re here to learn, to listen, and to slowly find our voice. We bring new perspectives, fresh energy, and a different way of looking at things, but it’s not about replacing what came before us. It’s about building on it.
The exciting part is that we’re not alone. So many family businesses around Lancaster and beyond are experiencing this same shift. Younger leaders are starting to take more active roles, whether it’s in operations, marketing, etc. We’re asking questions, pushing for innovation, and looking for ways to modernize without losing our roots.
The next generation has the opportunity to bring a fresh lens to the business whether it’s through embracing new technology, redefining leadership styles, or prioritizing things like culture, work-life balance, and community impact in ways that weren’t as common a generation ago. We’re growing up in a different world and that perspective can help us build businesses that are not only profitable but also sustainable, inclusive, and forward-thinking.
We can also help bring clarity to what the future might look like. This isn’t by changing everything overnight but by slowly and intentionally shaping our roles, building trust, and taking on more responsibility over time. It’s not just about continuing the business for the sake of tradition but about making sure the business continues to have purpose and relevance for the years to come.
I don’t have all the answers yet and I’m not supposed to. What I do know is that the future of Lapp Electric isn’t just about preserving a legacy, it’s about evolving it. I’m so grateful to be part of that process. There’s something really meaningful about knowing your work contributes to something bigger than yourself, especially something your family built with care and intention. As we look ahead, I hope the next generation, myself included, can lead with a mindset of growth, openness, and purpose because when tradition and innovation work together, something truly special happens.
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This blog post was crafted as a personal reflection, written by Reese and inspired by the legacy of Lapp Electric. The piece explores the balance between honoring a long-standing family business and shaping its future, highlighting the role of the next generation in bringing fresh perspectives, energy, and purpose to a lasting tradition.