Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Department of Labor (VDOL) and the Vermont National Guard (VTNG) have formalized a new partnership by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) under the PRIME Program, a statewide initiative designed to connect VTNG Service members and their families with meaningful civilian employment opportunities.
The PRIME Program (Partnered Recruiting Initiative for Military and Employers) aims to improve recruitment and retention for the Vermont National Guard while simultaneously helping Vermont employers, including VDOL, fill critical workforce vacancies with qualified candidates.
The program facilitates referrals between VDOL and VTNG, providing Guard members and their dependents access to employment or internship opportunities that complement their military service.
“This partnership reflects our shared commitment to strengthening Vermont’s workforce and supporting the brave men and women who serve our state and nation,” said Kendal Smith, Vermont Department of Labor Interim Commissioner. “The PRIME Program helps ensure that our Service members and their families have access to stable, meaningful civilian careers while also addressing ongoing workforce challenges across the state.”
Under the agreement, VTNG recruiters will present civilian job opportunities provided by VDOL to prospective Guard members during recruitment efforts. VDOL, in turn, will evaluate and onboard eligible candidates referred to through the PRIME Program by its hiring policies while recognizing the unique training, leadership, and technical skills Guard members bring to the workforce.
“This collaboration with the Department of Labor will expand opportunities for members of the VTNG and their families,” said Maj. Gen. Gregory Knight, Adjutant General of the Vermont National Guard. “It's a win for both the DOL and the VTNG to work together to strengthen our workforce and contribute to Vermont’s economic growth and stability.
For more information about the PRIME Program or to explore opportunities with the Vermont National Guard, visit vtguard.com/PRIME. To learn more about employment programs and job openings through the Vermont Department of Labor, visit https://labor.vermont.gov.
7.23.2025. Montpelier, Vt. – Vermont Department of Labor labor.vermont.gov
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