BETA's Katie Clark with VCET's David Bradbury. Vermont Biz photos.
Electric Aviation, Live Music, and Youth Leadership
Vermont Business Magazine The Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation (GBIC) recognized four individuals for their outstanding contributions to Vermont at its annual meeting this week.
Kyle and Katie Clark, BETA Technologies
The Clarks received the C. Harry Behney Lifetime Economic Development Achievement Award. Recognized for their commitment to building a world-class electric aviation company in Vermont, the Clarks have created 420 jobs this year alone.
“New public companies in Vermont are rare and thrilling,” said David Bradbury, president of the Vermont Center for Emerging Technologies, who introduced the Clarks. “An IPO like BETA’s creates massive income, wealth and talent benefits that will be felt for generations.”
Established in 1995 to honor former GBIC and Cynosure president, C. Harry Behney, this award recognizes Vermonters who have greatly and positively impacted the economy of Vermont and improved the economic well-being of Vermonters and their communities.
Alex Crothers, Higher Ground
The 2026 Robert A. Skiff Community Improvement Award went to Alex Crothers, founder of Higher Ground. An institution in Chittenden County for 28 years, the venue has hosted music legends including Willie Nelson, Phil Lesh, Noah Kahan, Wilco, and Ani DiFranco, while maintaining a commitment to nurturing small, independent bands.
“The cultural vitality of northwest Vermont depends on places like Higher Ground and people like Alex, who has shown an enduring commitment to local music," said Dan Smith, president of the Vermont Community Foundation, who nominated Crothers. "Communities need more than jobs to attract young people–they need dynamic cultural opportunities, too.”
Celebrating the life and career of Bob Skiff, who dedicated himself to advancing the well-being of his fellow Vermonters, the award is presented annually by the board of directors of Cynosure and GBIC to an outstanding Vermonter who has strengthened community and improved educational and economic opportunity in Chittenden County and Vermont.
Abdille Ibrahim, Boys & Girls Club of Burlington
The Ernest A. Pomerleau Outstanding Young Vermonter Scholarship was awarded to Abdille “Abdi” Ibrahim (pictured above), who was recognized for his leadership at the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington.
“Abdi is a resilient and community-driven young Vermonter whose experiences have inspired a deep commitment to helping others,” says Tanya Benosky, executive director of the Boys & Girls Club of Burlington. “He has become a role model here through his involvement in academic programs and financial literacy initiatives.” Abdi is pursuing a career in the medical field, where he hopes his knowledge of three languages will help patients feel safe, heard, and cared for.
The Ernest A. Pomerleau Outstanding Young Vermonter Scholarship is presented annually to a graduating high school senior in Chittenden County who has excelled as a well-rounded leader in their community. Established in 2003 to honor the career of Ernest A. Pomerleau, recipients are chosen for their integrity and compassion for others, leading through example, and overall outstanding character.
About GBIC and Cynosure
The Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation helps solve problems with leading employers to create economic well-being for Vermonters. Cynosure is the real estate arm of GBIC, focused on developing industrial properties to support local economic growth. For more information: gbicvt.org
Burlington, VT (June 26, 2026) - The Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation
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