CEDRR will host the Workforce in Motion Summit in May at VTSU's Castleton Campus.
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Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Read on for:
Workforce in Motion Summit | CEDRR Legislative Breakfast |
Membership Spotlight | What's New in Rutland County | Made at The MINT | Career Hub | Upcoming Events
Sponsor or Register your Business for the Workforce in Motion Summit
Registration is in full swing for the May 21 Workforce in Motion Summit Hosted by Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region at the Vermont State University's Castleton Campus! If your trades business is hiring or you wish to promote your trade to students from around Vermont, this event is for you.
Last year we brought together 70 businesses and nearly 2,100 students. In 2026, we are stepping it up with a goal of 100 businesses from Vermont and neighboring New York and New Hampshire connecting with 2,500 students exploring real career opportunities.
If you are interested in learning more or securing your booth space, email Russ@WorkforceInMotion.org.
We are excited to connect and build the future workforce together!
Megan Sullivan, Vermont Chamber of Commerce's Vice President of Public Affairs speaks during the CEDRR Legislative Breakfast.
CEDRR Legislative Breakfast
Thank you to all who attended the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region's Legislative Breakfast on Monday, February 23 at Southside Steakhouse.
Megan Sullivan, Vermont Chamber of Commerce's Vice President of Public Affairs, and Amy Spear, Vermont Chamber of Commerce's President, were our guest speakers. We heard about current issues making their way through the legislature and community members had the opportunity to ask questions.
CEDRR will host another Legislative Breakfast once the current session ends. Thank you, Omya for sponsoring the event.
Welcome to Our New Member
Front Porch Forum's mission is to help neighbors connect and build community. We do that by hosting regional networks of online neighborhood forums.
Common sense and a growing body of research tell us that well-connected neighborhoods are friendlier places to live, with less crime, healthier residents, higher property values, and better service from local government and public utilities.
My wife, Valerie, and I founded Front Porch Forum (FPF) in 2006 to serve our hometown of Burlington, Vermont, and by 2013, FPF had grown to host forums in every community in our state. Amazingly, a majority of Vermont households subscribe to FPF now. Members have shared millions of postings among nearby neighbors about all sorts of topics: lost dogs, car break-ins, plumber recommendations, school budgets, block parties, helping neighbors in need, and more.
The seed for FPF was planted in 2000 when Valerie and I wanted to meet and get to know our own neighbors. We started a precursor to FPF then, and it boomed in our own "Five Sisters" Burlington neighborhood. Check out our current coverage area.
What we found then is now playing out across all Vermont towns. Once people have an easy and safe way to communicate with neighbors, they will! And that simple act adds up. The cumulative impact can be huge. After months of FPF, people often report feeling more connected to neighbors, more tuned in to local goings on, and more a part of their community. And in many cases, people then become more active, organizing a group yard sale, mentoring a local kid, volunteering for a park clean-up, voting on election day, etc. That's what FPF is all about!
-Michael Wood-Lewis, Co-Founder & CEO
CEDRR would like to thank the following businesses for renewing their membership:
Vermont State University (VTSU) Internship Program
A Collaboration Between Vermont State University (VTSU) and the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR).
The Chamber and Economic Development of the Rutland Region (CEDRR) and Vermont State University (VTSU) are collaborating to expand career development opportunities for VTSU student interns. Through this partnership, CEDRR works closely with VTSU to cultivate professional settings and networking opportunities for students pursuing internships and early career experiences throughout Rutland County.
The goal of this innovative partnership is to encourage local businesses and nonprofit organizations to foster professional environments where employers provide mentorship and model best business practices—exposing students to workplaces and industries they may not otherwise encounter. VTSU students bring knowledge, creativity, and a strong work ethic to host organizations, becoming valued contributors to both the workplace and the broader Rutland County community.
During business hours, if a local business or nonprofit does not have the capacity to host an intern onsite, The Hub CoWorks will support interns by providing access to hot desks and meeting space. Interns must receive approval from the Director of Career Development and Innovation and will be required to sign a Hub CoWorks membership agreement to utilize the space.
When visiting area businesses, the Member & Events Manager will share marketing materials to promote VTSU internship opportunities. For more information about VTSU’s internship program, please contact Chrispin White at chrispin@rutlandeconomy.com.
Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak Announces Investment at the Paramount Theatre.
Pieciak, Local Leaders Announce $8M Investment in Rutland Downtown Hotel
Treasurer Pieciak announced that his office is investing $8 million from the 10% in VT program to support the development of the Rutland downtown hotel.
The new funding is a major step toward financing the project—transforming the Center Street block, strengthening local tourism, and sparking a new chapter of the Marble City’s revitalization.
The hotel will replace the long-vacant brownfield “pit” on the corner of Wales Street and Center Street with a seven-story, mixed-use building accommodating 100 guest rooms, 30 permanent jobs, and 26 new apartments—boosting downtown foot traffic and welcoming new customers for local businesses.
The added lodging space will also soften demand for short-term rentals, expanding local housing options for workers and families. Rutland’s downtown has been without a hotel since the Berwick Hotel, which previously occupied the space, burned down in 1973. The project is expected to add millions in new revenue to the local tax base over time.
Vermont Adaptive Ski and Sports Adds $10.3 Million to Vermont Economy Each Year
A newly released economic impact study conducted by Vermont Adaptive Ski & Sports and CRO Planning & Design shows that Vermont Adaptive contributes more than $10.3 million annually to Vermont’s economy while supporting 72 jobs and generating $1.8 million in state, local, and federal tax revenue.
The study, conducted throughout 2025 and completed in December, measured the direct and ripple effects of Vermont Adaptive’s operations, programs and major events across the state. The analysis examined organizational spending, participant and volunteer spending related to winter and summer programs, and two of the organization’s largest annual events plus an additional fundraising event.
“This study confirms what we see every day in our programs and through the participants who recreate with us,” said Jeff Alexander, director of strategic partners and business development. “Adaptive recreation doesn’t just change lives. It supports jobs, strengthens local businesses and plays a meaningful role in Vermont’s outdoor recreation economy.”
Beacon Bank in Arlington, Vermont.
Former Berkshire Bank is Now Beacon Bank
Beacon Bank announced the successful combination of four storied financial institutions, including the former Berkshire Bank, under its new brand.
Beacon Bank is now one of the 100 largest banks in the United States with more than 145 branches and commercial centers across New England and New York, including five branches in Vermont in Manchester (2), Rutland, Arlington and Ludlow.
Participate in the VTSU Spring Career Fair
Vermont State University (VTSU) invites employers, organizations, and community partners to participate in our Spring Career Fairs, hosted on campus and online. These vents serve as a powerful connection point between university, business, and community, bringing together talent, opportunity, and regional partnerships in one place.
Employers are encouraged to showcase:
- Full-time, part-time, and seasonal positions
- Internships and experiential learning opportunities
- Volunteer roles and community engagement initiatives
Why participate?
- Recruit talented students, alumni, and community members
- Build brand visibility and regional partnerships
- Share industry expertise and career pathways
We also welcome community members who are exploring employment opportunities or simply want to learn more about what's available locally. Please encourage high school students, neighbors, friends, and anyone seeking new opportunities to attend.
Registration is now open, reserve your spot directly through Handshake today!
First Public Hearing for the 2026 Rutland Regional Plan
The Rutland Regional Planning Commission is holding the first public hearing in the adoption process for the proposed 2026 Rutland Regional Plan. At the hearing, the RRPC will accept general and specific comments on whether the proposed Plan conforms to the state planning goals in 24 V.S.A. §4302. The hearing details and draft plan are available at: rutlandrpc.org/plan2026
Event details
2026 Rutland Regional Plan First Public Hearing
Date & Time: March 17, 2026 @ 7:00 pm
Location: Rutland Regional Planning Commission, Second Floor Large Conference Room, 16 Evelyn Street, Rutland
Rutland Regional Medical Center Announces 2025 Physicians and Advanced Practice Providers of the Year
Rutland Regional Medical Center is pleased to announce the recipients of the 2025 Rutland Regional Medical Center and Community Physician and Advanced Practice Provider of the Year Awards.
The purpose of these annual awards is to recognize physicians and advanced practice providers whose contributions to our community, patients, and staff represent the highest standards in health care. The awards were created in memory of Dr. Emelie Munson Perkins, a multi-talented individual who served the Rutland community as a physician, employee, and volunteer. To be nominated for an award, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate dignity and respect toward patients and staff.
- Exhibit excellence in clinical care.
- Serve as a role model professionally and personally within the health care system and community.
This year’s awardees were selected from more than 25 nominees representing a diverse group of exceptional individuals who demonstrate and reflect the quality of our medical staff. It is truly an honor for these providers to be recognized by their peers and colleagues. Each of these distinguished honorees exemplifies the hospital’s core values and commitment to patient-centered care.
Announcing the Center for Women & Enterprise 2026 30 Stars Nominees
Every year, the Center for Women & Enterprise celebrates thirty incredible entrepreneurs from our Women’s Business Centers and WBEs. Out of these outstanding individuals, six of the clients who have been economically empowered from their relationship with CWE will be chosen as the stars of their Center.
Jadziah DeRosia, owner of Camille's Consignment Boutique in Rutland City is one of thirty nominees!
Apply for Animating Infrastructure Grants
The Vermont Arts Council is now accepting applications for Animating Infrastructure Grants, which support projects that integrate public art into community infrastructure. The Council’s definition of infrastructure is broad. It includes community facilities and services such as buildings, trails, water or sewer systems, roads, power systems, parks, parking lots, vacant or empty spaces, and more that have the potential for artistic enhancement that creates unique places where people want to live, work, visit, and play.
Vermont 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, educational institutions, and municipalities are eligible to apply.
Application Deadline: March 9, 2026
Apply for $5,000 Farmer Award by March 1
Applications for the 2026 Eric Rozendaal Memorial Award are open until March 1, the Vermont Land Trust (VLT) has announced.
Farmers can learn more and apply online at vlt.org/eric.
The $5,000 award recognizes land stewardship, innovation, and service to community. Farmers who are actively working on or managing a commercial farm operation in the state, are residents of Vermont, and have not received this award in the past are encouraged to apply. Applicants do not have to own a farm.
A selection committee consisting of leaders in the Vermont agricultural community will review and score the applications and select a winner. The award will be announced at the Vermont Land Trust’s annual meeting in the fall.
Funding Available for Education and Research through the South Lake Champlain Fund
Grants are now available to support projects focused on education and research concerning the cultural and ecological history and heritage of Southern Lake Champlain through the South Lake Champlain Fund at the Vermont Community Foundation.
The fund supports projects located on the southern portion of Lake Champlain (the area of Lake Champlain south of Crown Point in both Vermont and New York), with a preference for projects directly on the lake or in close proximity. School-based projects are encouraged. The fund also aims to support projects that involve experts and others living in the southern Lake Champlain region. Matching funds are encouraged but not required.
Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, March 24, 2026. Please visit vermontcf.org/slcf for more information or to apply.
Attend the First Annual Real Rutland Community Roundup on March 5
There is always something to do in Rutland County! This event provides an opportunity to meet other community members who share the same hobbies and interests as you! Think of it as an activities fair for adults!
Join us for the First Annual Real Rutland Community Roundup on March 5 from 5-7 p.m. at The Hub CoWorks in Downtown Rutland. Whether you recently relocated, have lived here forever, or made a New Year's resolution to meet new people or join a club this event is for you. No matter your motive, you are sure to find something of interest here! We have gathered together the faces of some wonderful groups across the county, and they are so excited to meet you. There will be food from Kamuda's Country Market, friends and door prizes!
A group gathered at The Hub CoWorks Streetside Conference Room for Rutland Winterfest Writing Workshop.
Updates from The Hub CoWorks
Rutland Winterfest Writing Workshop at The Hub CoWorks
The Hub CoWorks was happy to support Come Alive Outside by hosting a Rutland Winterfest event on Friday, February 20. A dozen people gathered together in the Streetside Conference Room for a creative writing workshop with Bianca Amira Zanella. While it was a blustery Friday outside, attendees shared warm drinks along with their wonderful words. Winterfest continues through today – for more information, visit https://www.rutlandwinterfest.com/events.
Upcoming Events at The Hub CoWorks
Real Rutland Community Roundup
Thursday, March 5, 2026 from 5:00 – 7:00pm
The Hub CoWorks, 67 Merchants Row, Suite 201, Rutland, VT
The First-Annual Real Rutland Community Roundup is an activities fair for adults! Twenty groups and organizations from around Rutland County will be present at this event. Whether you are new to the area or looking to meet people with similar interests, please join us and have some delicious food from Kamuda's Country Market. This event is free to attend, and RSVPs are not required.
Learn more at https://www.facebook.com/share/1B3romiw3X/
RYP x SPEAK
Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm
Streetside Conference Room, 67 Merchants Row, 1st Floor, Rutland, VT
Are you a young professional who wants to learn better public speaking skills and strengthen your communication? Join this professional development event from Rutland Young Professionals and SPEAK. The debate topic for this session will be: “Should early career professionals prioritize work-life balance
over career advancement?”
Head to https://rutlandyoungprofessionals.org/ for more information or https://rypspeak2026.eventbrite.com/ to register today!
Upcoming Events at The MINT Makerspace
At The MINT, we welcome folks of all ages and orientations to gather, make, play, and build community. We are so excited to highlight our classes we have upcoming for the next few weeks.
Pet Portrait Mosaics Workshop
Class date: March 4th
Come create a mosaic representation of your pet! This class is beginner friendly.
The Joy of Letterpress
Class date: March 4th
A hands on class to learn the process of letterpress printing. Attendees will be guided through the entire process of planning, preparing a chase with printing blocks, setting up a table top press, inking up a press, and making prints.
Pottery Intro Bootcamp
Class date: Starts March 7th
New to the wheel or need a refresher? This class is perfect for pottery beginners looking to learn a new skill and create something beautiful!
Painting with Rae
Class date: Starts March 11th
Join Rae Newell for an 8 week exploration in oil and acrylic painting. Rae brings to The MINT decades of painting and art instruction and we are very excited to have her!
Rapid Prototyping Orientation
Class date: March 19th
This session covers the different rapid prototyping technologies and a brief history, focusing on FDM 3D printing and how printers work today.
Second Annual Chili Cookoff
Event date: March 28th
This is an opportunity for our community to come together, share space, be warm, and celebrate a love of chili. It is also a chance to share The MINT with friends and family and help us raise funds in support of our programming.
Your job? Come hungry! We will be selling MINT-made ceramic bowls for you to fill three times then take home.
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.
Maintenance Technician
Cornerstone Housing Partners is seeking a Maintenance Technician to join their team.
Strategic Account Executive
HDmedical is seeking a Strategic Account Executive to join their team.
Director of Operations and Commercial Development
HDmedical is seeking a Director of Operations and Commercial Development to join their team.
Learn more about this position →
View Rutland County career opportunities & post your position →
Sales 101 - Increasing Your Sales Skills Increases Your Revenue
March 3 | 6-7:30 PM | Virtual | FREE
Many entrepreneurs think marketing produces revenue. Most often that is not accurate. Marketing brings a prospective customer to you. It is your sales process that converts a prospect to a customer!
If you have a company that provides personal training, beauty, sports, childcare, etc., or any other commodity or service this information packed live online seminar will teach you how to turn your offerings into revenue. With a mixture of real-life stories, you will learn selling skills and how to close the deal. As an entrepreneur your number one job is to be a great salesperson. Tune in and increase your sales and profits today!
Cybersecurity with Mary Kohn, BBB
March 4 | 12-1:30 PM | Virtual | FREE-$20
This presentation highlights the need to know facts of cyber security. We will discuss what it is and what it means, as well as why it is important! We will educate attendees on the significant threats of cyber criminals in today’s world and their cyber attacks. For business owners, cybersecurity isn’t just about adding layers of security technology, there is a 5-step approach that will help protect your business’s vital data and technology assets, and how to detect, respond to and recover from a cybersecurity incident. This presentation will also share internet safety tips and data safety tips.
Mary Kohn is the Community Engagement Coordinator for the Better Business Bureau of E. MA, ME, RI, and VT, a nonprofit public service organization. In her role, Mary has the privilege of serving communities across the entire state of Vermont, where she empowers residents and businesses through education, support, and meaningful relationship-building throughout the Green Mountain State. She takes great pride in strengthening trust between local businesses and the communities they serve, helping foster a more transparent and ethical marketplace.
Lean 101 - Lean Transformation
March 11 | 8 AM-3 PM | Rutland Country Club | $98 per person
Lean 101 workshops have created and reignited the spark for improvement in countless organizations in Vermont and across the globe. Participants will walk away recognizing the 8 wastes and with an introduction to mindsets and methods that they can use to eliminate these wastes in their own companies. New to Lean or need a refresher? THIS is for YOU.
