CEDRR May Mixer and Book a Deal at The Hub CoWorks
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Tuesday, April 22, 2025
Read on for:
CEDRR May Mixer | Get $150 Off Your Booking at The Hub CoWorks | Bring Back the Trades |
What's New in Rutland County | Made at The MINT |
Membership Spotlight | Career Hub | Upcoming Events
CEDRR May Mixer at Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional Airport
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) May Mixer will be hosted by Cape Air at the Rutland-Southern Vermont Regional Airport. Join us on Tuesday, May 13 from 5-7 p.m. Learn more about the planes that fly in and out of our local airport, have fun, and network with others from the area.
More information coming soon!
Streetside Conference Room at The Hub CoWorks.
Get $150 Off Your Rental at The Hub CoWorks
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) members get $150 OFF any room rental at The Hub CoWorks.
This deal gets you TWO FREE HOURS in the Killington and Casella Learning Labs, the Opera Conference Room, and the North Conference Room. Or it can be used for ONE FREE HOUR in the Streetside Conference Room.
This offer can only be used once. You must create your own account and book online by using the code 2HOURCEDRR.
Over 1,600 Registered to Attend Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo
The Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo, presented by F.W. Webb, is gearing up to be one of the most impactful trade-focused events in Vermont! With over 1,600 students from nearly 40 schools and hundreds of community members already pre-registered to attend, this event is set to provide hands-on experiences and career exploration opportunities for students, parents, and community members alike.
Brought to you by Title Sponsor F.W. Webb and in collaboration with the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) the event is hosted by Vermont State University Castleton Campus. The Skills Expo will take place on May 20, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM, offering a unique opportunity for students to explore high-demand, high-paying careers in the skilled trades.
With the “silver tsunami” of retirements looming, where five tradespeople retire for every two entering the workforce, the skills gap in the trades is more pressing than ever. The Bring Back the Trades Skills Expo provides a solution by exposing students to real career opportunities in fields such as plumbing, HVAC, electrical work, construction, welding, cosmetology, culinary and more—all through hands-on experiences and direct engagement with industry professionals.
Event Highlights:
- Interactive Exhibits: Experience hands-on trade demonstrations from businesses eager to showcase their work and technologies. “It’s like touch-a-truck for teens and grown ups - there are so many amazing exhibits happening at the Vermont event - I can’t wait for the students, parents, and community members to see the creativity,” said Bring Back the Trades Executive Director Shana Brunye.
- Equipment & Tool Demos: See trade professionals in action, high tech industry tools, and learn about cutting-edge innovations.
- Industry Engagement: Network with professionals and potential employers looking to invest in the next generation of skilled workers.
- Scholarships & Giveaways: Businesses are stepping up to provide scholarship opportunities, prizes, and giveaways to students pursuing careers in the trades.
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region has played a key role in bringing this event to Vermont. Lyle Jepson, Executive Director of CEDRR, stated, “Our mission is to create a thriving economic climate, and that starts with workforce development. The Skills Expo is a powerful way to connect students with industry leaders and help them envision a successful future in the trades.”
CEDRR would like to thank the following businesses for renewing their membership:
Rutland County Recipients of 2025 Best of Business in Vermont Awards
VermontBiz has announced the 2025 Best of Business Awards (BOB Awards) winners. This program celebrates the best Vermont companies in more than 100 business-to-business categories. Below are the winners for Rutland County.
Best Hotel for Business Travel: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Vermont Inn
Best Credit Union: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Heritage Family Credit Union*
Best Bank: Rutland/Bennington Counties - The Bank of Bennington*
Best Small/Medium Venue for Meetings and Events: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Mountain Top Resort
Best Large Venue for Meetings and Events: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Killington Grand Hotel*
Best Health Club: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Vermont Sport & Fitness Club
Best Golf Course: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Green Mountain National*
Best Restaurant for Business Lunch: Rutland/Bennington Counties - Café Provence
Best Electricity Provider - Green Mountain Power*
Best Engineering Firm - Otter Creek Engineering*
Best Cell Phone Provider - Verizon
Best Internet Provider - Comcast*
Best Copier Provider - SymQuest*
Best Waste Removal Company - Casella Waste Services*
Best Financial Planning/Investment Firm - Trust Company of Vermont*
Best Employee Benefits Firm - The Richards Group*
*Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region member
Nancy Shuttleworth, VtSBDC Area Business Advisor for Rutland and Bennington Counties.
Nancy Shuttleworth named VtSBDC 2025 State Star
The Vermont Small Business Development Center (VtSBDC), announced that Nancy Shuttleworth has been named the organization’s 2025 State Star. The award, presented annually and recognized nationally, celebrates a member of the organization’s team who makes significant contributions to their clients and region, and is deeply committed to Vermont’s small businesses.
Shuttleworth is the Area Business Advisor for Rutland and Bennington counties. “Nancy is a tremendous advisor and valued member of our team, “ said Rossi. “She is an incredible resource for entrepreneurs and business owners. Her clients describe her as an attentive listener, and someone who gives practical feedback and is invested in their success.”
Jillian Earle, Direct Support Professional for Project SEARCH at Community Care Network.
CCN's Jillian Earle Named Vermont Direct Support Professional of the Year
Jillian Earle, direct support professional for Project SEARCH at the Community Care Network in Rutland, has been named Vermont’s Direct Support Professional of the Year by ANCOR, the nation’s leading advocacy organization for community-based providers supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Earle, who joined CCN in 2021, is one of 54 individuals selected from across the United States for recognition from a record-breaking pool of 500 nominations received by ANCOR. She will be recognized at the upcoming ANCOR Connect conference and awards breakfast in San Diego on April 9.
Artist rendering of Live Killington Village, an aerial view of the development.
Killington's $3 Billion Expansion Aims for World-Class Appeal and Lasting Economic Impact
The largest ski resort in the eastern United States — with annual revenues estimated at over $3 million and traditional home to the Stifel Killington World Cup for women’s downhill racing — Killington Mountain Resort is set to undergo a metamorphic redevelopment that aims to solidify its reputation as a world-class, four-season destination.
Spearheaded by award-winning North American developers Great Gulf, the ambitious project leans into public-private partnerships, blending hyper-modern architecture and amenities with community-focused initiatives.
With a projected investment of $3 billion over 25 years, the development has the potential to reshape not just the mountain, but also the surrounding region by enhancing its appeal to residents, tourists and investors alike.
At the heart of this transformation is “Live Killington Village," a pedestrian-oriented community designed by Safdie Architects and PWP Landscape Architecture.
Encompassing 1,095 acres, with 45 acres dedicated to the village itself, the plan includes more than 720 ski-in/ski-out condominiums, luxury townhomes and single-family residences in the initial phases. Two public squares will anchor the development, providing hubs for dining, retail and year-round activities.
Central to the village is The Crystal lodge, an 85,000-square-foot structure replacing the existing Snowshed and Ramshead lodges, featuring modern glass architecture that intends to reflect the natural beauty of Vermont’s Green Mountains.
Behind the project is Killington Investor Group, led by Great Gulf and investors Phill Gross and Michael Ferri, both of whom have deep connections to the mountain. The group also includes John Casella, of the Casella waste management empire; the adventure lifestyle company POWDR, which recently sold the mountain to the group but then decided to stay on for the new development phase; and approximately 16 other investors, according to Great Gulf.
Supporting Legal Services for Vermont Manufacturers
Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC) and the Vermont Law and Graduate School’s (VLGS) Small Business Law Center and Clinic are proud to announce a new partnership aimed at expanding legal services for manufacturers across the state.
This partnership reflects a shared commitment to strengthening Vermont’s manufacturing community by providing tools, knowledge and resources that enable long-term business success.
Through this collaboration, VMEC and VLGS will host a webinar series designed to help manufacturers better understand their rights and responsibilities, and how to protect themselves and their employees. Topics will include contracts, regulatory compliance, business entities, risk management, and other legal issues that small manufacturers often face.
In addition to educational programming, manufacturers will also be able to access one-on-one guidance from an attorney, ensuring they get personalized support for their specific needs.
John W. Casella, Chairman and CEO of Casella Waste Systems.
VTSU Names John W. Casella as Commencement Speaker on Castleton Campus
Vermont State University (VTSU) is graduating its second class this spring on May 17 and 18, 2025 and has announced a remarkable lineup of commencement speakers for the four ceremonies, held at the Castleton, Lyndon, Johnson, and Randolph campuses over the weekend.
The Castleton campus will welcome alumnus and businessman John W. Casella (‘72) as the guest speaker. Mr. Casella is the Chairman & CEO of Casella Waste Systems, which this spring celebrated its 50th anniversary and has grown into one of the nation’s largest waste and recycling companies, employing over 5,000 people throughout the eastern United States.
He shared, “It’s always a good day when I get to return to the Castleton campus, and I’m looking forward to sharing graduation day with the Class of 2025. I’m grateful for the impact the institution had on me in my younger years and throughout my career as well as the tremendous contributions of its graduates to Casella, the Rutland area, and across the state of Vermont.”
Women in Business Workshops at The Hub Next Week
Tuesday, April 29, 2025
9 AM-4 PM at The Hub CoWorks, 67 Merchants Row in Downtown Rutland
Join us for a day-long event featuring business workshops and networking opportunities to empower women-owned and -led businesses. Attendees will have the chance to learn and connect with industry experts and peers, focusing on strategies to support, grow, and manage their businesses. This event is valuable for businesses, organizations, and nonprofits at all stages of growth.
Workshops include:
Level Up: Tools & Tactics Small Businesses Overlook, Presented by Nancy Shuttleworth, Business Advisory, VtSBDC
Navigating Funding Avenues for the Next Stage of Your Business, Presented and Moderated by Liz DiMarco Weinmann. Panelists will include representatives from local and state funding sources.
Business Credit Building, Presented by Shelley Faris, Financial Education, BROC Community Action
Social Media & Brand Marketing , Presented by Shandi Marie Patch, Shandi Marie Brand Photographer
All people working in downtown businesses, organizations, and nonprofits are welcome. This is FREE for those located in the Downtown District of Rutland. For Businesses located outside the Downtown District, tickets at $50. Lunch and snacks included!
Marketing Seminar at The Hub CoWorks Next Week
Wednesday, April 30
1 PM at The Hub CoWorks in the Streetside Conference Room
In the seminar, we'll delve into how the Grand Slam Marketing methodology was discovered, demonstrate the efficiency it provides, and explain how it can significantly enhance and optimize your marketing investment efforts. Bringing your vision to screens big and small.
Germain Kirk is a 3-Time Emmy Award winner with over 22 years of experience in mass media, journalism, & digital development. He has witnessed marketing evolve from both the inside of the media industry, and from the outside as a business consultant. He works with businesses large and small across the country to help them grow their business with proven & reliable media strategies.
May Mix - Bikes & Beer!
Join Rutland Young Professionals at DownValley Bikes for a mixer of young professionals and local cycling enthusiasts. We'll have brews from Von Trapp Brewing in Stowe as we chat about types of cycling, local trail networks, and popular bicycle routes in the Rutland area.
May 14, 6-8 PM
DownValley Bike and Apparel, 10 Merchants Row in Downtown Rutland
The Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region's Career Hub features full-time jobs across Rutland County that provide a salary higher than the Vermont living wage.
Manager of Care Coordination
Community Care Network is seeking a Manager of Care Coordination to join their team.
Toddler Room Lead Teacher
Killington Resort is seeking a Toddler Room Lead Teacher to join their team.
Re-Entry and Incarceration Coordinator
Rutland County Restorative Justice Center is seeking a Re-Entry and Incarceration Coordinator to join their team.
View Rutland County career opportunities & post your position →
Protecting Your Business in a Data-Driven World
April 28 | 12-1:30 PM | Virtual | Free
In today’s digital marketplace, small businesses and nonprofits face growing challenges around data security, online advertising, and customer trust. Join this engaging panel discussion designed to help you make sense of data privacy — and what it means for your business.
Hear from national experts in privacy, cybersecurity, and advertising transparency as they share practical tips and real-world examples that small business owners can use right away.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to protect your business and customers with smart privacy and cybersecurity practices
- The most common (and costly) pitfalls in online advertising
- How data privacy can give small businesses a competitive edge
- What current and emerging privacy laws could mean for your operations
Panelists:
- Theodora Skeadas, Advisory Board Member, Cambridge Local First
- Melanie Ensign, Founder & CEO, Discernible
- Kimberly Lancaster, Founder & CEO, Avalon Privacy & Compliance
- Arielle Garcia, Chief Operating Officer, Check My Ads
- Moderator: Gwen Pokalo Hart
Whether you’re just starting out or scaling up, this session will equip you with the knowledge to better navigate the evolving digital landscape — and protect what you’ve built.
Starting Your Own Business - With VtSBDC
April 30 | 10-11:15 AM | Online | Free
Starting your own business can be challenging, especially for first-time business owners. If you’re ready to explore turning your idea into a real business opportunity, then this is the presentation for you. By joining this 75-minute workshop, you’ll gain a basic overview of starting your own business including some practical tips/steps.
• How to evaluate if there is a viable business opportunity in your idea?
• What makes your business unique? Creating your value proposition.
• Testing your idea. Learn about the Business Model Canvas and how to use it.
• Registrations and initial legal questions.
• Basics of financials and how to calculate what you’ll need to get started.
• You’ll have an opportunity to have some of your burning questions answered by our VtSBDC Business Advisors giving the presentation.
• Following the session, you’ll leave with next steps to consider, and you will receive a copy of the program along with many resources to turn to for guidance!
Rutland Spring Job Fest
May 8 | 11 AM-2 PM | Depot Park, 49 Evelyn Street, Rutland | Free
Find your next career opportunity at the Rutland Spring Job Fest! Employers are actively hiring and excited to meet you, so polish up your resume and come down. This event is completely free. Sponsored by the Vermont Department of Labor, Catamount Radio, and HireAbility Workforce Partners. If you have questions, call 802-786-5837.
