Students, educators, employers, and job seekers will gather at the Champlain Valley Expo to explore careers and strengthen Vermont's talent pipeline.
Vermont Business Magazine As Vermont employers continue to face workforce shortages and an aging labor force, Workforce in Motion (WIM) is bringing their proven hands-on career exploration model to the Champlain Valley Expo this fall.
The Workforce in Motion Summit, presented by Title Sponsor Casella Waste Systems and hosted by the Lake Champlain Chamber, will welcome Vermont students on September 29 for a day of hands-on career exploration, connecting them directly with employers, industries, and opportunities through immersive experiences. Following the student Summit, the event will open to the community for an afternoon career fair, giving job seekers and community members an opportunity to connect directly with regional employers and training providers.
The Summit builds on WIM's inaugural Rutland event in May 2026, which brought together more than 1,150 students and 65 businesses representing 15 career pathways.
"It's important for students to see the careers that are available to them, especially the opportunities that exist right here in their own backyard," said Joe DeBonis, Principal of Poultney High School.
More than 95 percent of surveyed students said they would recommend the experience, with many reporting they discovered careers they had never previously considered.
"There is nothing like first-person, hands-on experience to help children see all that is possible," added David Perry of Christ the King School.
The event will feature live demonstrations, interactive exhibits, and opportunities for students and job seekers to explore careers in healthcare, manufacturing, construction, public safety, transportation, technology, and other high-demand industries.
"After great success in the Rutland region, we are excited to bring Workforce In Motion's unique model to Northwest Vermont," said Catherine Z. Davis, President & CEO of the Lake Champlain Chamber. "Engaging students early about the opportunities available to them right here in our community is important for their future success and for the vibrant, innovative economy we need. The Summit gives employers an opportunity to engage directly with their future workforce, build talent pipelines for tomorrow, and connect with job seekers today."
WIM Founder Russ Marsan says the Burlington Summit represents the next step in a larger statewide vision.
"Workforce In Motion was never intended to be a one-community initiative. It was designed to become a statewide movement. Every region faces unique challenges, but they all share the same opportunity: when education, business, workforce partners, and community leaders come together with a common purpose, we can create meaningful career pathways that keep our young people here, attract talent, and strengthen Vermont's economy for generations to come."
As Title Sponsor, Casella Waste Systems continues its investment in workforce development and community partnerships across Vermont by supporting opportunities that connect students and job seekers with meaningful career pathways.
Schools and students are encouraged to register at workforceinmotion.org. Employers interested in exhibiting or sponsoring should contact Kristin Bogovich at [email protected].
ABOUT WORKFORCE IN MOTION
Workforce In Motion is a Vermont-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to strengthening Vermont’s workforce by connecting students, young adults, career changers, and employers through education, hands-on experiences, industry training, and meaningful career pathways into the skilled trades and other high-demand industries. Learn more at workforceinmotion.org.
ABOUT THE LAKE CHAMPLAIN CHAMBER
The Lake Champlain Chamber represents hundreds of member businesses across the Greater Burlington region, connecting businesses and driving economic development across Northwest Vermont. Learn more at lakechamplainchamber.com.
ABOUT CASELLA WASTE SYSTEMS
Casella Waste Systems provides resource management services across the northeastern United States and is committed to investing in the communities it serves and supporting Vermont's next generation of skilled workers. Learn more at casella.com.
ESSEX JUNCTION, Vt. — www.workforceinmotion.org
To support vital journalism, access our archives and get unique features like our award-winning profiles, Book of Lists & Business-to-Business Directory, subscribe HERE!
Vermont Business Magazine