Workforce in Motion Summit, presented by Casella Waste Systems and hosted by the Lake Champlain Chamber. Article in partnership with Heritage Aviation and the Vermont Army National Guard.
As Vermont employers continue to navigate workforce shortages and an aging labor force, a growing number of businesses are coming together around one idea: introducing students to careers before they make decisions about what’s next.
On September 29, the Workforce in Motion Summit, presented by Casella Waste Systems and hosted by the Lake Champlain Chamber, will bring students from across northwestern Vermont to the Champlain Valley Exposition for a morning of hands-on career exploration.
Following the student Summit, the event opens to the public from noon to 3:30 p.m. as a regional career fair. The two-part format allows participating organizations to introduce students to their industry during the morning, then connect with adults who are actively seeking employment, considering a career change, or looking to continue their education and training.
The Summit expands on a model first introduced in Rutland earlier this year. “Workforce in Motion was never intended to be a one-community initiative. It was designed to become a statewide movement,” said Founder Russ Marsan. “Bringing the Summit to Greater Burlington is another important step.” Employers, public agencies, educators, technical centers, colleges, nonprofits, and workforce organizations will introduce students to careers through demonstrations, equipment, technology, and conversations with the people behind the work.
Casella Waste Systems has supported Workforce in Motion from the beginning and returned as the Title Sponsor for the Chittenden County Summit.
“We believe building a strong workforce begins by helping people discover meaningful career opportunities and then investing in their success every step of the way,” said Jeff Weld, Vice President of Communications at Casella Waste Systems. “That starts by introducing students to careers through programs like Workforce in Motion and continues long after someone joins our team through investments like our CDL school, maintenance technician training, and frontline leadership development programs. We want people to see that our industry offers more than a job. It offers the opportunity to learn, grow, and build a rewarding, long-term career while making a difference in the communities we serve.”
WCAX visited the inaugural Summit in Rutland, where students explored careers in the skilled trades and other industries through interactive exhibits and hands-on experiences.
“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,” said Catherine Z. Davis, President and CEO of the Lake Champlain Chamber. “The Summit gives employers an opportunity to engage directly with their future workforce, build talent pipelines for tomorrow, and connect with job seekers today.”
Educators who attended the inaugural Summit say the experience leaves a lasting impression.
“The students get so excited for these events, and many of them truly engage in what is being offered. I love teaching in the classroom, but I know there is nothing like first-person hands-on experience to help children see all that is possible.”
— David Perry, Christ the King School
“Good for students to see what careers are available and especially ones here right in their back yard.”
— Joe DeBonis, Principal, Poultney High School
Unlike a traditional trade show, the Workforce in Motion Summit is built around interaction. Organizations are encouraged to think beyond a booth by creating experiences that get students involved, whether that’s climbing into equipment, trying a demonstration, testing technology, or simply having an honest conversation with someone in the field. Those are the moments that help students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to careers they may never have considered.
Workforce in Motion is currently welcoming employers, nonprofits, educators, training providers, and public agencies interested in participating in the September Summit.
To learn more about exhibiting or sponsoring the event, visit workforceinmotion.org/join-wim/.
Workforce in Motion Summit at a Glance
Date: Tuesday, September 29, 2026
Location: Champlain Valley Exposition, Essex Junction
Student Summit: Morning session for middle and high school students from across the region.
Regional Community Career Fair: Open to the public from 12:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Who Should Exhibit? Businesses, nonprofits, public agencies, colleges, technical centers, apprenticeship programs, workforce organizations, and training providers.
Learn More: workforceinmotion.org/join-wim
