Ballard Spahr’s first-year class jumped in size on Jan. 1, when it finalized its merger with Lane Powell. Now, that broader group of early career attorneys is taking part in the firm’s customized training program, which leaders credit with reducing attrition rates even as hybrid work has become a permanent reality.

The first-year integration program, which goes by the name Ballard Blueprint, emphasizes coaching and offers additional programming spearheaded and led by the associates themselves. As part of this year’s program, the firm got a head start on its integration efforts with Lane Powell, which merged into Ballard Spahr at the start of 2025, by flying out Lane Powell’s own first-year recruits from the Pacific Northwest to Philadelphia to mingle with their new colleagues.

Leaning In on Customization, Coaching

The first-year integration program, which takes place every year at the firm’s Philadelphia office, has the basics of any introduction to a new employer, tackling administrative items, best practices, timekeeping procedures, and general tips for success when working at Ballard Spahr.