10/01/2026
What a day we had Tuesday at the Champlain Valley Exposition!
More than 1,200 students. Approximately 70 businesses and organizations. Countless questions, hands-on experiences, and opportunities to discover something new.
The Workforce In Motion Chittenden County Summit brought students, educators, employers, and community partners together for a day dedicated to career exploration, breaking down silos, and helping young people define what success looks like for themselves.
This day was for ALL students—those considering college, technical education, apprenticeships, direct employment, entrepreneurship, or still figuring out what interests them.
No stereotypes. No preconceived notions. No “you have to do this” or “you should enroll in that.” Just room to be curious, ask questions, explore possibilities, and try something they may never have experienced before.
And our exhibitors showed up in a big way!
From flight and heavy equipment simulators to waste collection, broadcasting, and weather forecasting, students stepped into the work themselves. They explored electrical careers, pipefitting, robotics, healthcare, arboriculture, carpentry, airport services, aviation maintenance, and more. And they did it alongside the people who do that work every day. Mentorship between potential candidates and seasoned professionals played out right before our eyes.
These experiences make a difference. A conversation can introduce a career a student never knew existed. A hands-on activity can uncover an interest or talent. An employer willing to listen and share their story can help a young person see where they might belong.
That is what Workforce In Motion is working to build: stronger connections between education, employers, and communities—and more opportunities for people to find their own path forward.
The day also extended beyond the student experience, welcoming community members to the public Career & Job Fair to connect with employers and explore employment and training opportunities.
A heartfelt thank-you to our premier statewide sponsor,
Casella Waste Systems, and our host, Lake Champlain Chamber, for supporting our team and helping bring this experience to Chittenden County.
To every exhibitor, educator, school staff member, volunteer, community partner, and member of the WIM team: thank you for the time, energy, and care you brought to this event. And to the students—thank you for showing up with curiosity and a willingness to jump in!
These photos capture some of the energy, conversations, and discoveries that made yesterday so special.
Keep an eye out for our expanded 2027 lineup as we continue the momentum, spread our wings, and bring Workforce In Motion to more communities!
Success looks different for everyone. Every student deserves the opportunity to explore what it could look like for them.
