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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Keynote Speakers for 2024 Solutions Summit

August 26, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Announces Keynote Speakers for 2024 Solutions Summit

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the keynote presentations for the 2024 Solutions Summit, Vermont’s premier workforce development conference, taking place on September 25, 2024, at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Burlington. This year’s event will bring together business leaders, educators, and policymakers to address the pressing challenges of the modern job market with actionable and scalable solutions.

Presentations at the Solutions Summit will provide solutions-driven insights designed to harness innovative ideas and cutting-edge technology to tackle the most significant workforce issues facing Vermont businesses today. Attendees will explore critical topics such as strengthening the connection between education and employment, improving employee retention and recruitment, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency, and understanding Vermont’s legislative landscape as it pertains to workforce development. Keynote presentations include:

The State Opportunity Index: Strengthening the Link Between Education and Opportunity in Vermont, Stephen Moret, President, Strada
- The inaugural State Opportunity Index is a groundbreaking resource designed to help states enhance the pathway from education to opportunity. It profiles each state across five key dimensions—Clear Outcomes, Quality Coaching, Affordability, Work-Based Learning, and Employer Alignment—offering a comprehensive framework for improving employment outcomes. Stephen Moret will present new findings specific to Vermont and the nation, providing valuable insights and actionable recommendations for policymakers, education leaders, and the business community.
Building Vermont’s Workforce: The People Paradigm, Amy Spear, President, Vermont Chamber of Commerce, and Kevin Chu, Executive Director, Vermont Futures Project
- Vermont faces the critical challenge of needing 13,500 new workforce entrants annually. This session, led by Amy Spear and Kevin Chu, will delve into “The People Paradigm,” a key component of Vermont’s forthcoming Economic Action Plan. Through a data-driven presentation, they will explore strategies to enhance workforce efficiency, attract and retain talent, and establish a foundation for long-term economic growth. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the workforce dynamics shaping Vermont’s future.
Workforce Policy Insights: Legislative and Administrative Perspectives, Alison Clarkson; Fauna Hurley (Office of Sen. Peter Welch); Jay Ramsay (Vermont Department of Labor); Moderated by Peter Hirschfeld, Vermont Public
- This session will equip business leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to effectively engage with Vermont lawmakers on workforce policy challenges. Participants will gain a better understanding of the legislative process, recent efforts to address workforce issues, and future policy directions that support Vermont’s labor market needs. This interactive session will provide an opportunity to engage directly with lawmakers and discuss the policies impacting Vermont businesses.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is committed to advancing the Vermont economy and shaping the future of work in Vermont, ensuring our state remains competitive in an ever-evolving economic landscape. The Solutions Summit is sponsored by Green Mountain Power, O’Brien Brothers, PC Construction, University of Vermont Professional and Continuing Education, VELCO, and Vermont Federal Credit Union. Registration for the Solutions Summit is currently open; visit vtchamber.com/workforce-solutions-summit for registration and additional information.

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Tom Dee Honored as Citizen of the Year

August 8, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors Tom Dee as the 2024 Citizen of the Year

On August 1, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce celebrated Thomas A. Dee, President and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC), as the 2024 Citizen of the Year at an event in his honor. Colleagues, friends, and family members gathered at the historic Everett Mansion to recognize Dee’s outstanding contributions to advance the southern Vermont economy and elevate community healthcare standards.

The Citizen of the Year award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to an individual who has made significant contributions to the betterment of Vermont, distinguished through exceptional service to their community and region, and epitomizes the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice that defines Vermont citizenship. Tom Dee has exemplified these qualities through his visionary leadership and unwavering dedication to the southwestern Vermont community.

“I’m humbled by this honor and grateful for the attention it brings to SVMC and the community of Bennington, which I call home,” said Tom Dee. “I have always strived to be a good steward of this health care system and, while I consider myself a small part of its more than 100-year history, I understand the crucial role we have in the communities we serve and in the State of Vermont. This has always motivated me to move SVMC forward and support our community, where I can.”

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, also shared her thoughts on the occasion, saying, “Tom Dee embodies the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship. For 14 years, his unwavering dedication and visionary leadership have significantly improved the local economy and elevated community healthcare standards. We are proud to honor Tom Dee as the 2024 Citizen of the Year and celebrate his exceptional leadership and commitment to community.”

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has been honoring outstanding Vermonters with the Citizen of the Year award since 1964. Previous recipients include Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. This year’s celebration was a testament to Tom Dee’s remarkable contributions and his enduring legacy in Vermont. This event was supported by these generous sponsors: rk Miles, Casella, Farrell Distributing, The Richards Group, Southwestern Vermont Medical Center, Mack Molding, and The Putnam Redevelopment Group

Tom Dee being handed the Citizen of the Year award by Kathleen Fisher, chair of the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. The award is a marble statue shaped like the Bennington Battle Monument. — Tom Dee is awarded the Citizen of the Year by Kathleen Fisher, chair of the Southwestern Vermont Medical Center. The marble statue, shaped like the Bennington Battle Monument, symbolizes his exceptional service and dedication to the Vermont community.

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Vermont’s Regulatory Environment and Aging Demographics Add to Growing Cumulative Impacts Facing Vermont Businesses

August 6, 2024July 26, 2024

Vermont’s Regulatory Environment and Aging Demographics Add to Growing Cumulative Impacts Facing Vermont Businesses

Health insurance providers have submitted commercial rate increase proposals to the Green Mountain Care Board for 2025. Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont is requesting a 24% increase, while MVP is seeking a 9% increase. These proposals follow two consecutive years of double-digit rate hikes, creating an unsustainable financial burden for Vermont’s businesses and their employees.

For businesses already struggling with numerous financial challenges, including supply chain disruptions, a new payroll tax, significant property tax increases, inflation, and labor shortages, these additional health care cost pressures are part of a bigger cumulative impact pushing some companies to a breaking point.

The rising cost of healthcare and insurance in Vermont is driven by several factors, including increased utilization, higher prescription drug costs, staffing challenges, and other economic pressures. The 65+ demographic uses healthcare services at a much higher rate, and with 100,000 Vermonters expected to join this age group in the next decade, costs will continue to rise.

Addressing Vermonters’ healthcare needs affordably is a complex challenge without easy solutions. Regulators will need to carefully review hospital budgets and insurance rates while considering the burdens businesses are facing. If implemented, these proposed insurance increases would exacerbate existing hardships and harm the economic health of our state. Health care coverage is a crucial component of the wage and benefit packages employers offer. As insurance premiums rise, employers face the tough decision of trying to absorb these additional costs or passing them on to employees; neither option is desirable.

The Green Mountain Care Board is accepting public comment on these rate increases. We encourage you to submit your feedback here.

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New Laws in Effect July 1

August 6, 2024July 26, 2024

New Laws in Effect July 1

As of July 1, several new laws have taken effect that will impact employers and employees in Vermont.

Vermont State Payroll Tax for Childcare Contributions: The first state payroll tax for childcare contributions began on July 1. Employers need to be ready for the additional tax and must make decisions about how this new tax will be divided between the employer and employees. Learn more by watching the Department of Taxes webinar and viewing their presentation for employers.

U.S. Department of Labor’s New Overtime Regulation: The Department of Labor’s new overtime regulation, published on April 26, will raise the salary threshold for executive, administrative, or professional employees in two steps. The first increase on July 1, 2024, raises the salary to about $44,000, and the second on January 1, 2025, raises it to about $58,600. The highly compensated employee threshold will also increase in two steps, with adjustments every three years.

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Amy Spear Announced as President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

June 11, 2024June 6, 2024

Amy Spear Announced as President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors has announced Amy Spear as the incoming President of the organization. Spear was selected from a robust pool of applicants following a six-month search committee process that leveraged the expertise of Burlington-based Hawley Consulting Services. The committee’s recommendation was ratified by the full board at a June 6 meeting.

“I look forward to working with Amy and building on her expertise in chamber operations, government affairs, and strategic planning,” said Tom Dunn, Vermont Chamber of Commerce Board Chair and CEO of VELCO. “With her success advocating for the restaurant and lodging industries in the State House, I am confident she will continue building on the Vermont Chamber’s legacy of business advocacy.”

Spear has been part of the Vermont Chamber leadership team since 2019, serving as the Vice President of Tourism. She was named to the Vermont Rising Stars Class of 2023. Before joining the Vermont Chamber, she was the Executive Director of the Stowe Area Association, Stowe’s destination marketing organization. With over 15 years of experience in the non-profit sector, Spear is a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record of driving initiatives, engaging diverse stakeholders, and delivering successful outcomes. Committed to organizational excellence, Spear has worked with three chambers in Vermont and is currently earning her Institute for Organization Management designation, a four-year program for association leaders, with an expected graduation date of July 2024. She lives in Killington with her family and is an active community volunteer.

“I am honored to serve in this role, and I am excited to continue working with our talented team,” said Spear. “As incoming President, I am committed to ensuring that the Vermont Chamber continues to focus on its mission to advance the Vermont economy.”

Reporting to the Board of Directors, the President is responsible for setting the strategy and tone of the organization ensuring it remains the most influential non-partisan business organization in Vermont. Amy’s tenure will begin on July 1, 2024.

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Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors President Betsy Bishop’s 30-Year Impact on the Vermont Economy

June 11, 2024May 28, 2024

Vermont Chamber of Commerce Honors President Betsy Bishop's 30-Year Impact on the Vermont Economy

On May 22, the Vermont Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors convened a celebration in honor of President Betsy Bishop. Generations of Vermonters gathered at the ECHO, Leahy Center for Lake Champlain to commemorate her 30-year legacy of leadership and impact on the economic growth of Vermont.

“During Betsy’s 15 years as President, the Vermont Chamber has become the most influential business advocacy organization in the state,” said Tom Dunn, Vermont Chamber of Commerce Board Chair and CEO of VELCO. “She has led the organization with steadfast dedication, strategic vision, and an infectious passion for the Vermont economy.”

Several notable officials delivered remarks, including Governor Jim Douglas, who reflected on Betsy’s earlier career as a member of his cabinet and administration.

“It is an honor to celebrate such an exceptional individual who has dedicated so much to public service,” stated Governor Douglas. “Throughout her career, Betsy has demonstrated a profound commitment to Vermont. I wish her all the best in her future endeavors, and I know she will do great things in her next chapter.”

The evening culminated with a bourbon toast, with 150 attendees raising a glass to Betsy’s legacy and contributions to the success of Vermont. Betsy Bishop announced her departure from the Vermont Chamber in December 2023 and a leadership transition for the organization is set for summer 2024.

“When I reflect on my 30 years of work at the Vermont Chamber and in the State House, it’s been an incredible adventure. So many of the people who shared this path with me are here today,” stated Betsy Bishop. “I’ve been privileged to work alongside all of you. To the doers, the planners, the innovators—thank you for being on this journey with me.”

Notable attendees also included Treasurer Mike Pieciak, Secretary Lindsay Kurrle, and Commissioners Joan Goldstein, Beth Fastiggi, Wendy Knight, Alex Farrell, and Michael Harrington.

Attendees were encouraged to donate to the Vermont Futures Project in honor of Betsy’s tenure and founding of the organization. To capitalize on the foundation of data and research that has been built, the Vermont Futures Project is leading the development of a unified and durable statewide economic plan that is set to be released this summer.

The success of the event was made possible by the support of Acrisure, The Hartford, Farrell Distributing, Casella Waste Management, Greater Burlington Industrial Corporation, The University of Vermont Health Network, Bloods Catering & Party Rentals, VACEplus Insurance, and the Vermont Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives.

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Op Ed: Eclipsing 802,000: Making Vermont a Destination for a Lifetime

April 25, 2024April 25, 2024

Eclipsing 802,000: Making Vermont a Destination for a Lifetime

This commentary is by Kevin Chu, Executive Director of the Vermont Futures Project, and Amy Spear, Vice President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

On April 8th, over 160,000 people visited Vermont to observe the solar eclipse. Vermont briefly surpassed the 802,000 population goal that the Vermont Futures Project set last year, and we saw a glimpse of the vibrancy that’s possible in our state. Our downtowns and villages were full of life, full of people engaging in commerce and connecting with communities.

When totality occurred, there was a palpable sense of shared humanity and joy. For three and a half minutes, it didn’t matter if the person next to you was a visitor or resident. It didn’t matter if they were rich or poor, what languages they spoke, the color of their skin, or who they loved. For three and a half minutes, we were all human. What we observed in the sky was rightfully described by many as a once-in-a-lifetime event. What happened on the ground doesn’t have to be. Vermont needs more people, and more people need Vermont, whether it’s for a day, a week, months, or years.

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce recently convened Tourism Economy Day at the State House to highlight the collective impact of the visitor economy. The industry accounts for $3 billion in spending and supports 35,000 jobs (11.5% of Vermont’s workforce). Tourism also plays a profound role in connecting people to places. It unlocks much of the economic activity and vibrancy we see in our rural communities – visitors develop an affinity for Vermont, and some dream of moving here. We can make those dreams a reality by welcoming them with open arms and continuing to leverage the strength of our tourism economy to attract future residents.

Yes, doing so will mean we need to build more homes. It can also mean rural revitalization that taps into existing capacity in areas of the state that have depopulated. More housing and more people can make Vermont more affordable. It means a more robust workforce, thriving businesses, and a growing tax base that can support vital programs and services. Schools can be full of children again, and children won’t be told they need to leave Vermont to be successful. Opportunities to live, work, and play in this great state will be more abundant. A growing economy means that more needs, of more people, are being met more of the time.

We can’t afford to let Vermont be a once-in-a-lifetime place. For once, let’s make it a place that anybody can choose for a lifetime.

_________________________________________

About the Vermont Futures Project

The Vermont Futures Project is an independent non-partisan organization pursuing answers to their mission question: How can we use data to support the evolution of Vermont’s economy towards a thriving future full of opportunity for all?

About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.

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Tourism Economy Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

April 12, 2024April 12, 2024

Tourism Economy Day Brings Business and Policy Leaders Together at the State House

Over 100 tourism and hospitality industry leaders gathered at the State House on April 11 to engage with legislators and raise awareness of the collective contributions of these industries to the Vermont economy. “Tourism Economy Day,” convened by the Vermont Chamber of Commerce and Ski Vermont, brought businesses together to advocate for a thriving Vermont visitor economy.

The Vermont visitor economy has a $3 billion annual economic impact, supports 35,000 jobs, and represents 11.5% of our workforce. Businesses, legislative leaders, and Administration officials collaborated for a day of advocacy that elevated the collective contributions of the visitor economy to Vermont. A coffee hour with Governor Scott, a joint hearing with the House Commerce and Economic Development Committee and the Senate Economic Development, Housing, and General Affairs Committee, a Resolution reading on the floor of the House of Representatives, an evening food and beverage tasting reception with the Vermont Specialty Food Association all took place throughout the day.

Rep. Stephanie Zak Jerome (Rutland-9), a stalwart supporter of the tourism industry, offered a House Resolution, H.C.R 211. “The Vermont visitor economy remains a vital engine powering our state and bolstering our businesses and local economy. This annual event provides an opportunity for industry leaders from across Vermont to testify on the importance of their work, speak directly to legislators, and elevate the importance of the tourism and hospitality sectors in the State House,” commented Rep. Jerome.

“The Vermont Chamber has a proven track record of bringing businesses together with a shared purpose to work together to build a stronger Vermont economy,” said Amy Spear Vice President of Tourism for the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s event focused on advocating for strategic initiatives to bolster business success and contribute to the vitality and resiliency of our state: workforce development, economic recovery and resiliency, and workforce housing.”

“Outdoor recreation relies on sustaining a healthy and thriving environment and is vital to Vermont’s $1.9 billion outdoor recreation tourism economy,” says Ski Vermont President Molly Mahar. “Vermont’s ski areas understand the importance of sustainable stewardship for tourism and its economic benefit to their local communities and across the state. For decades they have worked to support and enhance the state’s capacity for outdoor recreation while protecting the environment and reducing carbon emissions. They maintain that focus so current and future generations can continue to enjoy all that Vermont has to offer.”

Business leaders centered their advocacy on three key pillars of opportunity: workforce development investments in training and education to meet industry demands, economic recovery and resiliency programs to address and anticipate economic injuries from disasters, and workforce housing solutions to meet future needs.

“Friends, mentors, and colleagues have had to shutter their businesses in the wake of recent catastrophes. It’s heartbreaking,” stated Stefano Coppola, Chef and Owner of Morse Block Deli & Taps. “While the State’s work to help businesses through the pandemic, and later the flood, was commendable, there is still much progress to be made. We need additional support so that when something like this happens again, we are more prepared to help the hospitality industry.”

“By investing in education and workforce development, we can cultivate future leaders and ensure the sustainability of our vibrant tourism economy,” stated Hans van Wees, General Manager of Hotel Vermont and Co-Chair of the Vermont Lodging Association. “Our goal is to empower high school graduates, career changers, and current industry professionals through targeted programs that bridge the gap between education and practical experience.”

Additional business and policy leaders that testified were: Charles Tino Rutanhira of the Vermont Professionals of Color Network, Jay Wahl of The Flynn, Emily Schriebl Scott of the Weston Theater Company, Andrew Stenger of Jay Peak Resort, Bob Grim of Foam Brewers, Hans van Wees of Hotel Vermont and the Vermont Lodging Association, and Heather Pelham, Commissioner of the Department of Tourism & Marketing.

April 12, 2024

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Tom Dee Selected as the 2024 Citizen of the Year

April 2, 2024

Tom Dee Selected as the 2024 Citizen of the Year

The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has selected Thomas A. Dee, President and CEO of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) as the 2024 Citizen of the Year. He was selected for the award for his outstanding contributions to southern Vermont, particularly his impactful efforts in health care and community development. The award will be presented at a celebratory event on Thursday, August 1, at the Everett Mansion at Southern Vermont College in Bennington.

The award is presented annually by the Vermont Chamber to honor an outstanding Vermonter who has made major contributions to the betterment of Vermont; has been distinguished through outstanding service to their community and region; and typifies the true spirit of service and self-sacrifice in representing the finest ideals of Vermont citizenship.

“Tom has put heart and soul into improving the quality of health care – and the quality of life – in southern Vermont, while also taking visionary steps to ensure that excellent health care will be sustainable in the decades to come,” stated Kathy Fisher, Chair, SVMC Board of Directors. “And, given Tom’s understanding of the impact of socioeconomic factors on population health, he has also played a vital role in the redevelopment of downtown Bennington.”

“In his 14-year tenure, Tom Dee’s dedication to SVMC and southwestern Vermont has been pivotal to improving the local economy, and raising the bar for what it means to be a community leader,” stated Betsy Bishop, President of the Vermont Chamber. “We are proud to award this recognition to Tom Dee and look forward to bringing Vermonters together to celebrate in Bennington.”

The award dates back to 1964 and previous recipients include Senator Patrick Leahy, Barbara Snelling, Antonio Pomerleau, and Ken Squier. Registration to attend the celebration is now open. For more information, visit the Citizen of the Year event website.

About Tom Dee

Thomas A. Dee is the President and Chief Executive Officer of Southwestern Vermont Medical Center (SVMC) in Bennington, VT. Dee has over 33 years of experience as a hospital CEO. Under Dee’s management, the integrated health system has attained twelve consecutive years of positive operating performance and has been recognized with numerous state and national awards for quality of care, community leadership and workplace excellence.

He was recently named to Becker’s Hospital Review’s list of 110 rural hospital and health system CEOs to know for 2024. Dee led in the planning and implementation of the affiliation of SVMC with Dartmouth Health, commencing in 2012 with the formation of Dartmouth-Hitchcock Putnam Group Practice – a 150 member multi-specialty provider group. In 2023, SVMC became an institutional member of Dartmouth Health.

Before SVMC, Dee worked for Health Alliance in Kingston, NY, an integrated health system of three hospitals. He was president and Chief Executive Officer of the 222-bed Benedictine Hospital for more than 17 years. Dee has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and a master’s in Healthcare Administration, both from Xavier University in Ohio.

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Treasurer Mike Pieciak Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

March 25, 2024

Treasurer Mike Pieciak Connects with Business Leaders at the Wellspring Forum

Treasurer Mike Pieciak connected with Vermont business leaders at the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport for the latest installment of the Wellspring Forum series on March 22, 2024. Each event in the series has convened top business and policy leaders at a unique business and is moderated by Vermont Chamber President, Betsy Bishop.

“Connecting business and policy leaders for robust conversations is essential to our mission of advancing the Vermont economy,” stated Bishop. “Treasurer Pieciak was featured at our very first Wellspring Forum in 2022 when he was on the campaign trail, and it’s only fitting that we had him back in his official capacity to delve into the economic issues that are on the top of mind for Vermont businesses.”

Treasurer Pieciak took audience questions and addressed employer concerns, including struggles with the scale of financing important services in Vermont such as education, health care, and technology, along with ongoing affordability and workforce woes. The Treasurer also spoke about his work on VT Saves, Baby Bonds, and promoting housing growth in Vermont through recent substantial investments.

“Vermont continues to be a desirable location for people seeking a high quality of life,” said Treasurer Pieciak. “People want to live here, and our businesses want to expand, but we don’t have the workforce because we don’t have the housing. That’s why our Office has prioritized supporting new housing by investing over $60 million in low-interest loans in the last year alone. These funds are expected to support the development of over 1,100 new units of housing to help address our changing demographics, grow our economy, and support a more prosperous future for all Vermonters.”

Business leaders from across Vermont toured the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport following the forum, receiving a first-hand account of the new development project, “Project NexT” which will create a new terminal building to advance efficiency, safety, traveler amenities, and partner accommodations.

“It was a privilege to welcome Vermont Treasurer Mike Pieciak at the Vermont Chamber of Commerce’s Wellspring Forum last week,” said Nic Longo, Director of Aviation at the Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport. “As we prepare for Project NexT, the latest and largest sustainable infrastructure project at Patrick Leahy Burlington International Airport, we are committed to opening our airport to not just passengers but to the general public at future events.”

The event is inspired by Governor James H. Douglas’ quote; “I am often reminded that the wellspring of Vermont liberty flows from Main Street, not State Street,” and was made possible by the sponsorship of AT&T, The National Life Group, NBT Bank, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Vermont.

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