On October 8, 2026, the Brattleboro Development Credit Corporation (BDCC) convened a regional manufacturing roundtable in Brattleboro, marking the opening of Manufacturing Month. The gathering brought together CEOs, career-center directors, state labor analysts and policymakers to diagnose the challenges facing southeast Vermont’s production sector and to sketch concrete ways to nurture a sustainable talent pipeline.
The event featured a data-driven presentation by Mathew Barewicz, the state’s Economic & Labor Market Information Director, followed by insights from the Windham Regional Career Center (WRCC) and a lively open-forum where participants brainstormed how to streamline education-to-employment pathways.
Why manufacturing matters to southeast Vermont
Barewicz highlighted that, when adjusted for population size, Vermont’s share of manufacturing employment exceeds the national average. He explained that the sector’s resilience is closely tied to the state’s demographic trends: about 75 % of population growth over the past two decades has come from immigration. Consequently, any shift in federal immigration policy reverberates strongly in the Green Mountain State, potentially tightening the labor pool that factories depend on.
Within Windham County, Brattleboro accounts for the largest concentration of manufacturing firms. This geographic advantage, however, is currently shadowed by plant closures and a shrinking local workforce. BDCC Executive Director Adam Grinold stressed that the roundtable’s purpose was to unite all stakeholders before the decline becomes irreversible, noting that “opportunity still exists, but we must act together.”
Bridging education and industry
Representatives from the WRCC, led by Director Nancy Wiese, argued that the traditional image of manufacturing—as noisy, dangerous, and dead-end—no longer reflects reality. Modern factories are clean, high-tech environments that can appeal to digitally native students. Wiese urged educators to sell the narrative that today’s production lines are innovation hubs where skilled workers design, program and maintain sophisticated equipment.
Barewicz added that outreach must evolve from “find a job” to “run your own business.” By framing manufacturing as a pathway to entrepreneurship, recruiters can ignite the passion needed for long-term retention. He also called for immersive experiences—shop tours, apprenticeship previews, and mentorship programs—to make the sector feel accessible.
Regional collaboration and retention strategies
Several attendees echoed the need for a “single door” system that consolidates training, certification and hiring processes. Northrich, Inc. senior manager Richard Normandin advocated for a unified regional portal, stating that “a common goal across the area is essential for efficiency.” Such a hub could reduce bureaucratic frictions and provide clear entry points for job-seekers.
Commissioner of Economic Development Lyle Jepson warned that Vermont’s modest graduating class—roughly 4,000 to 5,000 students each year—makes every potential worker vital. He emphasized relationship-building: “We must meet students, shake their hands, and show them why staying in Vermont makes sense, whether they ski locally or pursue a career here.” By strengthening community ties, the state hopes to curb out-migration to neighboring states with more visible opportunities.
In sum, the Brattleboro roundtable illuminated a shared conviction: revitalizing manufacturing in southeast Vermont hinges on data-informed policy, modernized education messaging, and seamless collaboration among industry, schools and government. The next step will be turning these discussions into actionable programs that keep the sector—and the state—thriving.
