Healthcare Collaborative Progress Since its inception in 2018, the Vermont Talent Pipeline's Healthcare Collaborative has convened over 80 healthcare employers with shared hiring needs for nurses, identified as the most critical role in healthcare. We elevated Vermont's aggregate demand for the nursing career pathway using employer job forecasts. Critical Roles Identified by Healthcare Leaders CRITICAL NURSING JOBS IN VERMONT Licensed Nurse Assistant Medical Assistant Licensed Practical Nurse Registered Nurse Clinical Nurse Educator Nurse Practitioner Click on position for full job description and skills CRITICAL HEALTHCARE TECH JOBS IN VERMONT Radiology Technician Respiratory Therapist Medical Lab Technician Medical Lab Technologist Surgical Technologist Mental Health Technician Case for Support: A Skilled Nursing Shortage The healthcare industry currently comprises 13% of Vermont’s jobs. According to Vermont Labor Market Information, healthcare employed approximately 37,625 people in the first half of 2021, up approximately 1% from calendar year 2020, yet 4% lower than the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. Vermont has recently joined the interstate nurse licensure compact, therefore any nurse licensed in a participating state is eligible to work in Vermont. This legislation will allow for an increased hiring pool for Vermont healthcare facilities. A Skilled Nursing Shortage in Vermont Download the Full Case for Support Vermont Healthcare Collaborative Members Hospitals: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Brattleboro Retreat Central Vermont Medical Center - UVMHN Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital - UVMHN Copley Hospital Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Gifford Medical Center Grace Cottage Hospital Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center - Dartmouth-Hitchcock North Country Hospital Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Northwestern Medical Center Porter Medical Center - UVMHN Rutland Regional Medical Center Southwestern Vermont Healthcare and Medical Center University of Vermont Health Network UVM Medical Center - UVMHN White River Junction VA Medical Center Home Health and Visiting Nurses: Addison County Home Health & Hospice Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice Franklin County Home Health Agency Lamoille Home Health & Hospice Orleans Essex Visiting Nurses Association & Hospice Visiting Nurse and Hospice for VT and NH VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region Mental Health Services: Howard Center Northwestern Counseling Services Community Health Centers: Community Health Centers of Burlington Northern Counties Health Care Residential Care Facilities Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community Converse Home Eastview at Middlebury Elderwood at Burlington Equinox Terrace Franklin County Rehab Center LLC Genesis Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center Harbor Village, Senior Communities Kingdom Kare Healthcare Living Well Group Maple Lane Nursing Home Margaret Pratt Community Mayo Healthcare National Health Associates - The Pines Our Lady of Providence Pine Heights at Brattleboro Pines Rehabilitation & Health Center Springfield Medical Care Systems Springfield Rivers St. Albans Health and Rehabilitation Center The Gill Odd Fellows Home The Manor, Inc. The Meadows and Gables at East Mtn - RRMC The Pines at Rutland Center for Rehabilitation The Villa Rehab Center Union House Nursing Home Inc. Valley Cares, Inc. Valley Terrace Vermont Catholic Charities, Inc. Vermont Veterans' Home Vernon Hall Assisted Living Residence Wake Robin Explore Nursing Apprenticeship Read our Research Reports Join the Collaborative

Vermont Employer-Sponsored Nursing Apprenticeship Pipeline The Challenge: Vermont faces a critical RN shortage: 1,200 needed annually. However, the state’s higher education institutions graduate only about 400 RNs per year, and some of those graduates seek employment outside Vermont, further exacerbating the local shortage. Strategic Approach: Vermont Talent Pipeline launched a pilot for the Nurse Apprenticeship Pipeline in 2021 with the University of Vermont (UVM) Medical Center. Our mission: to expand the RN workforce by creating accessible nursing career pathways for current healthcare workers. Our Model: Employer-Sponsored Nursing Apprenticeship Pipeline Employer-supported programs allow hospital employees to upskill and become registered nurses. Participants follow a three-year stepped education plan where, in year two, they earn this LPN licensure before earning their RN licensure by year three. Employer covers tuition for employees, so there are no up-front costs for participants. Participants earn paid study hours to continue to earn a wage while in the program. A work agreement secures a commitment between the participant and employer. Participants have access to support services while in the program to ensure successful completion. Specific program requirements are customized to align with each partner hospital's policies and differ. Program Benefits: Scalable Nursing Education Solution Our nursing education framework adapts to hospitals of any size and location across the state. Today, eleven healthcare employers across the state are running Nursing apprenticeship pipeline programs. Employers and program partners meet regularly to share best practices and continuous improvement methods. Each organization tailors their program policies based on hospital scale and support capacity, ensuring the framework works effectively for larger hospitals and smaller rural facilities alike. The nursing pathways include all components required for Registered Apprenticeship certification, providing a comprehensive pathway to RN licensure regardless of hospital size. Participating Apprenticeship Employers Sustainable Funding The majority of employers sponsoring a nursing apprenticeship pipeline are utilizing the VSAC Workforce Opportunity Loan (WOLP) to finance their employees' education. The loan recycles by putting the student loan payments into the employer's loan fund that VSAC will hold for another round of loans for the employer. Should the apprentice leave the employer prior to full debt repayment, the employer has no further obligation on the remaining debt. The model creates a shared risk situation, where the employee can obtain the education they desire with the possibility of no debt, and the employer has a benefit that encourages the employee to stay for at least 3 years following their education. As an employer initiates a cohort, VSAC will work with the candidates to access as much free aid as feasible in an attempt to reduce as much potential debt as possible. Recycled Funding for Education Costs Shared Risk and Shared Reward Reduced Overall Costs with Grants & Scholarships Program Partners Explore Nursing Apprenticeship Read our Research Reports Join the Collaborative

Healthcare Credentials & Training Programs Why Career Pathways? Career pathways matter because they create structured routes for workers to advance into meaningful careers while meeting employers' talent needs. These pathways bridge the skills gap by enabling employers to collaborate with educators and provide workers with clear advancement opportunities, ensuring businesses have access to qualified talent when needed. Nursing Credentials Registered Nurse Provide comprehensive patient care, administer medications, coordinate treatment plans, and supervise other healthcare staff. 🎓Associate or Bachelor's degree 📋NCLEX-RN exam required 💰$44.57/hour Licensed Nurse Assistant Entry-level healthcare position providing basic patient care under the supervision of registered nurses. A perfect starting point for healthcare careers. ⏱75+ hours training required 📋State certification exam 💰$20.97/hour Licensed Practical Nurse Provide basic nursing care under the direction of registered nurses and doctors. Administer medications and monitor patient health. 🎓35 credits: (495 Theory hours and 620 Clinical hours) 📋NCLEX-PN exam required 💰$32.97/hour View the list of Nursing programs serving Vermonters Technician Level Credentials Surgical Technologist Assist in surgical operations by preparing operating rooms, arranging equipment, and helping doctors and nurses during surgeries. 🎓 Surgical Technician Certificate Program 📋 None required; Certified Surgical Technologist preferred 💰$29.93/hour Respiratory Therapist Perform laboratory tests on blood, tissue, and other body fluids to help diagnose diseases. Operate sophisticated laboratory equipment, analyze test results, and maintain quality control standards. 🎓Associate's degree in respiratory therapy 📋Vermont RCT Licensure, Basic Life Support, Advanced Cardiac Life Support, NBRC certified. 💰$38.62/hour Medical Lab Technician Perform routine laboratory tests on blood, urine, and other body fluids under supervision. Prepare specimens, operate basic lab equipment, record test results, and follow established procedures for quality control. 🎓Associate's degree in medical laboratory technology 📋Certified Medical Laboratory Technician, ASCP Board Certified 💰$30.22/hour Radiology Technician Perform diagnostic imaging examinations including X-rays, CT scans, MRI, and mammography. Position patients, operate imaging equipment, and work with radiologists to diagnose medical conditions. 🎓Associate's degree in radiologic technology 📋ARRT certified 💰$36.18/hour Medical Lab Technologist Perform complex laboratory analyses, interpret test results, troubleshoot equipment issues, and supervise laboratory technicians. Analyze specimens for disease diagnosis and monitor patient treatment progress. 🎓Bachelor's degree in medical laboratory science, chemistry, or biology 📋American Med Tech Certified; ASCP Board Certified 💰$32.06/hour Mental Health Tech Provide direct care and support to patients with mental health disorders or developmental disabilities. Assist with daily living activities, monitor patient behavior, facilitate therapeutic activities, and maintain detailed patient records. 🎓High School diploma or GED, preferred 📋 none required 💰$20.99/hour View the full list of Technologist programs serving Vermonters Looking for a Healthcare Job in Vermont? Click to find Jobs that match your skills in Vermont Explore Nursing Apprenticeship Read our Research Reports Join the Collaborative

Healthcare Workforce Reports Data-Driven Insights for Vermont's Healthcare Future We partner directly with Vermont healthcare employers to create forward-looking demand forecasts for critical roles in healthcare technology and nursing. Our employer-validated approach ensures talent pipelines are built on actual hiring requirements in Vermont, not just historical trends. 1200 Registered Nurses needed annually 400 Nursing Graduates per year in Vermont 800 New Nurses needed to fill the hiring gap Vermont Talent Pipeline 2024-2026 Nursing Needs Hiring Assessment data Critical Nursing Roles Of the six critical nursing roles identified, Registered Nurses are the most in-demand role in Vermont’s healthcare industry, with over 1,200 needed annually among 54 healthcare employers. However, the limited educational capacity of just three professional nurse educational institutions means only about 400 graduates become eligible for licensure each year. This significant supply gap creates ongoing challenges for healthcare delivery across the state. Addressing this shortage requires innovative approaches to expand training capacity and implement stronger retention strategies for existing healthcare professionals. Since 2018, we've conducted an employer-led Nursing Needs Assessment for the top six critical nursing roles . Read the full reports: 2024-2026 Nursing Needs Assessment 2018-2020 Nursing Needs Assessment 2021-2023 Nursing Needs Assessment Healthcare Technician Roles The Healthcare Employer Collaborative identified critical roles in six areas of technician-level roles. The fields of Radiology, Laboratory, Respiratory Therapy, Surgical, and Mental Health all provide essential support to healthcare delivery while offering pathways for professional growth. Programs that support training in these fields are limited in Vermont. Read our report with actionable staffing recommendations: 2024-2026 Healthcare Technician Needs Assessment Strengthening Vermont's Healthcare System: Insights from High-Quality LNAs Vermont hospitals face care delays as discharged patients remain in beds due to lack of rehabilitation and long-term care options. A statewide study identifies Licensed Nursing Assistants (LNAs) in Skilled Nursing Facilities (SNF) as crucial to solving this crisis. This talent flow research, sponsored by Vermont Health Care Association, recommends strengthening LNA hiring, training, and retention practices, along with implementing flexible discharge teams to improve patient flow between hospitals and SNFs. 2025 High-Quality LNA Survey Download the Full Report Explore Nursing Apprenticeship Read our Research Reports Join the Collaborative

Talent Pipeline Management (TPM) uses supply chain principles to call on business and public policy leaders to transform education and workforce systems to be employer-led and demand-driven. VERMONT TALENT PIPELINE ABOUT 2017 Year Established 3 Industry Collaboratives 185+ Employer Partners 19 Critical Jobs 6,600+ Jobs Forecast 2021 - 2023 ABOUT What is the Vermont Talent Pipeline? The Vermont Talent Pipeline addresses the talent supply gap by connecting employer needs with training programs and funding resources to better prepare the labor force with job-ready skills. The TPM model was founded by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation (USCCF) and is currently involved in a national rollout. Vermont has helped set the standard for the country as the first statewide implementation with employer collaboratives in 3 critical industries: Construction, Healthcare and Advanced Manufacturing. SERVICES OUR TEAM CHIEF TALENT OFFICER Mary Anne Sheahan serves as Chief Talent Officer for Vermont Talent Pipeline, directing programs for the Vermont Business Roundtable's Foundation. A recognized workforce development leader, she specializes in Talent Pipeline Management—an employer-centered approach that has connected over 185 employers across healthcare, manufacturing, and construction to create direct recruitment pathways and low-barrier career advancement opportunities. Trained by the US Chamber of Commerce Foundation in 2017, Mary Anne now serves as a TPM Academy Fellow, curriculum co-developer, and lead trainer. Her expertise spans higher education, systems technology, and supply chain operations. She holds an MBA and Project Management Professional certification, and serves on multiple boards including Vermont Works for Women and the Vermont Regional Career and Technical Education Center. A UVM graduate, Mary Anne lives with her husband Chris and takes pride in their three grown children: Hugh, Clare, and Ted. SENIOR PROGRAM MANAGER Abby Stevens manages Vermont's nursing apprenticeship pipeline as Senior Program Manager, leveraging the employer-driven Vermont Talent Pipeline Management framework to address critical healthcare workforce shortages. With extensive experience in adult and non-traditional student enrollment—from undergraduate programs in Nevada to career transitions in tech—Abby brings a proven track record of connecting learners with high-demand opportunities. When not bridging talent gaps, she's competing in her weekly pickleball league, cycling Vermont's back roads, and perfecting her latest dessert creation. She holds a B.A. in Sociology from UVM and is certified in Data Analytics. VTPM CORE TEAM Vermont Talent Pipeline Management (VTPM) is a program of the Vermont Business Roundtable and VBR Research & Education Foundation . Its work is supported by their Staff and Boards VTPM REGIONAL PARTNERS Bennington: Bennington County Regional Commission Brattleboro: Brattleboro Development Credit Corp. Rutland: Rutland Economic Development Corp. St. Johnsbury: Northern Vermont Development Association PARTNERS IN CONSTRUCTION Champion: ReArch Company, President John Illick Associations: Associations of Builders and Contractors NH/VT (ABC NH/VT) Vermont Home Builders and Remodelers Association (VHRA) Training Providers: Vermont Career and Technical Education Centers Vermont Works for Women ReSource VT Vermont Technical College PARTNERS IN ADVANCED MANUFACTURING Associations: Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center (VMEC) Training Providers: Vermont Career and Technical Education Centers Community College of Vermont Vermont Technical College PARTNERS IN HEALTHCARE Champions: Southwestern Vermont Health Care, VP Pamela Duchene Betsy Hassan, Director of Nursing Education and Professional Development, UVM Medical Center Jerry Baake, Director of Workforce, UVM Health Network Associations: Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems (VAHHS) Vermont Health Care Association (VHCA) Training Providers: Vermont Career and Technical Education Centers Community College of Vermont Vermont Technical Collge Castleton University Norwich University University of Vermont VTPM RESOURCE PARTNERS Resource partners help provide information or resource that support or inform the employer workforce community; they may have influence for government issues or legislation. Vermont U.S. Legislative Delegation Senator Patrick Leahy Senator Bernie Sanders Congressman Peter Welch Vermont Agency of Commerce Dept. of Economic Development Vermont Training Program Think VT Vermont Agency of Education Career and Technical Education Centers Work-Based Learning Coordinators Vermont State Colleges Vermont Department of Labor State Workforce Development Board Vermont Student Assistance Corp. Vermont Community Foundation McClure Foundation Curtis Fund Vermont Futures Project Advance Vermont INDUSTRY COLLABORATIVE PROJECTS CONSTRUCTION HEALTHCARE FUNDED TRAINING ADVANCED MANUFACTURING PROJECTS MAJOR FUNDING PARTNERS & Other Generous Contributors CLIENTS NEWS NEWS & MEDIA Strengthening the Health Care Workforce in a Rural Setting Through Improving Human Experience // 6.25.25 - Read Here ] Vermont Talent Pipeline Management Partners with Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center to Address the Supply of Manufacturing Workforce Skills // 2.6.23 - Read Here ] VBR Expands its Research and Education Foundation // 2.8.21 - Read Here ] Vermont Talent Pipeline Management Partners with Vermont Manufacturing Extension Center to Address the Supply of Manufacturing Workforce Skills // 2.6.23 - Read Here ] Insights for Funding Career Pathways // 1.31.21 - Read Here ] New "Exploring Careers in Vermont Construction" Video Spotlights Industry-wide Opportunities to Students // 1.9.20 - Watch Here ] McClure Foundation Awards Grants to College and Career Education Program [ VTPM is recipient // 6.12.19 - Read Here ] Talent Forward Features Vermont's Statewide Commitment to a Strong Talent Pipeline [ featuring VTPM // April 2019 - Visit Website ] "SVHC and Southern Vermont College Affiliate" [ Vermont Business Magazine article featuring VTPM // 8.28.18 - Read Here ] "VT Rosie's Girls Build Grit, Skills" [ Burlington Free Press article featuring VTPM // 8.13.18 - Read Here ] Ventriss Op-Ed: Employers Leading the Way to Close the Skills Gap [ Vermont Business Magazine exclusive // 6.22.18 - Read Here ] See Older Posts CONTACT CONTACT HEADQUARTERS Vermont Talent Pipeline Management c/o Vermont Business Roundtable 30 Kimball Avenue, #300 South Burlington, VT 05403 Ph: 802.865.0410 CONNECT WITH US Thanks! 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THE TPM MODEL VTPM uses a sector strategy to communicate demand-side hiring information to regional training providers. Vermont employers identify the number of job openings for each industry-critical role, both new and replacement jobs, with competencies, skills and credential requirements for each. The collective impact of collaboration signals the hiring demand for labor force engagement. The TPM process involves the following six strategies. Click on each icon for a short video. STRATEGY 1: ORGANIZE EMPLOYER COLLABORATIVES STRATEGY 2: ENGAGE IN DEMAND PLANNING STRATEGY 3: COMMUNICATE COMPETENCY & CREDENTIALING REQUIREMENTS STRATEGY 4: ANALYZE TALENT FLOWS STRATEGY 5: BUILD TALENT SUPPLY CHAIN STRATEGY 6: CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Healthcare Careers in Vermont EMPLOYERS SPONSORING A NURSING PATHWAYS PROGRAM: The Nursing Pathway Programs are an opportunity for current employees to apply to upskill to be a Registered Nurse. Program includes: no upfront cost to employee, employment wages for paid study hours, work agreement, wraparound supports. Northwestern Medical Center; St. Alban's, VT UVM Medical Center; Burlington, VT Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital; St. Johnsbury, VT Gifford Medical Center; Randolph, VT Rutland Regional Medical Center; Rutland, VT Mount Ascutney Hospital and Health Center; Windsor, VT Southwestern Vermont Medical Center; Bennington, VT Please review the employers's work requirements and eligibility process directly as policies differ. DISCOVER A CAREER AT A HEALTHCARE COLLABORATIVE EMPLOYER IN VERMONT: Hospitals: Brattleboro Memorial Hospital Brattleboro Retreat Central Vermont Medical Center - UVMHN Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital - UVMHN Copley Hospital Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center Gifford Medical Center Grace Cottage Hospital Mt. Ascutney Hospital and Health Center - Dartmouth-Hitchcock North Country Hospital Northeastern Vermont Regional Hospital Northwestern Medical Center Porter Medical Center - UVMHN Rutland Regional Medical Center Southwestern Vermont Healthcare and Medical Center University of Vermont Health Network UVM Medical Center - UVMHN White River Junction VA Medical Center Home Health and Visiting Nurses: Addison County Home Health & Hospice Central Vermont Home Health & Hospice Franklin County Home Health Agency Lamoille Home Health & Hospice Orleans Essex Visiting Nurses Association & Hospice Visiting Nurse and Hospice for VT and NH VNA & Hospice of the Southwest Region Mental Health Services: Howard Center Northwestern Counseling Services Community Health Centers: Community Health Centers of Burlington Northern Counties Health Care Residential Care Facilities Cedar Hill Continuing Care Community Converse Home Eastview at Middlebury Elderwood at Burlington Equinox Terrace Franklin County Rehab Center LLC Genesis Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center Harbor Village, Senior Communities Kingdom Kare Healthcare Living Well Group Maple Lane Nursing Home Margaret Pratt Community Mayo Healthcare National Health Associates - The Pines Our Lady of Providence Pine Heights at Brattleboro Pines Rehabilitation & Health Center Springfield Medical Care Systems Springfield Rivers St. Albans Health and Rehabilitation Center The Gill Odd Fellows Home The Manor, Inc. The Meadows and Gables at East Mtn - RRMC The Pines at Rutland Center for Rehabilitation The Villa Rehab Center Union House Nursing Home Inc. Valley Cares, Inc. Valley Terrace Vermont Catholic Charities, Inc. Vermont Veterans' Home Vernon Hall Assisted Living Residence Wake Robin

Crew Leader Vermont's Nurse Education Training Resources Critical Job Credential Requirement Training Providers Nurse Assistant 172 hr course; with clinical experience See List of Training Below Medical Assistant 15 credits (applies to PN or RN) Community College of Vermont Nursing Core Prep 14 credits (applies to PN or RN) Anatomy and Physiology 1&2, 8 cr Human Development, 3 cr Nutrition, 3 cr Community College of Vermont Transferable to any Vermont RN program Practical Nurse 35 credits + 630 hrs clinical experience (may include 14 cr from Nursing Prep and be applied to the ADN degree) Vermont Technical College Registered Nurse ADN - 70 total credits (may include 36 credits from PN and be applied to the BSN degree) Vermont Technical College BSN - 120 credits (may include 70 ADN credits Vermont Technical College Castleton State University University of Vermont Norwich University Norwich University Accelerated BSN - 45 credits for candidates with a BS in another subject Advance Practice Registered Nurse MSN Castleton State University Norwich University University of Vermont Accelerated MSN University of Vermont DNP University of Vermont INDUSTRY RECOGNIZED CREDENTIALS AND CERTIFICATIONS 1. Licensed Nurse Assistant (LNA) 2. Certified Medical Assistant (CMA) a. Certified Clinical Medical Assistant (CCMA) b. Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA) 3. Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) 4. Registered Nurse (RN) 5. Advanced Practice Registered Nurse (APRN) 1. Licensed Nurse Assistant An LNA is a credential provided by successful completion of the Vermont Board of Nursing exam for LNAs. LNAs provides basic nursing care which includes assistance with bathing, dressing, eating, mobility and toileting; they take vital signs, obtain labs, observe and report information, under the supervision of an LPN or RN. Any program operating in Vermont must be approved by the Vermont Board of Nursing. The Board has provided a list of APPROVED NURSING ASSISTANT EDUCATION PROGRAMS in Vermont https://sos.vermont.gov/media/xgang204/naep-list-of-programs-december-2019.pdf 2. Certified Medical Assistant CMA is a national credential from the American Association of Medical Assistants. Medical assistants are cross-trained to perform administrative and clinical duties, which may include: computer applications, medical records, coding, scheduling, as well as clinical responsibilities like taking medical histories, explaining procedures, assisting physician, performing lab tests, administering meds directed, drawing blood, removing sutures, and more Approved Medication Assistant Education Programs in Vermont: https://sos.vermont.gov/media/ryjlllpr/mna-programs-09202017.pdf Additional Medical Assistant Apprenticeships: CCV https://ccv.edu/explore-ccv-programs/registered-apprenticeships/medical-assisting-apprenticeship/ 3. Licensed Practical Nurse The Practical Nursing certificate at Vermont Technical College’s 4 campuses and 12 distance locations, is accredited by the Commission for Nursing Education Accreditation. With 36 credits, completers are eligible to sit for the NCLEX-PN exam. With VTC’s >99% pass rate for the NCLEX-PN, all credits apply to VTC’s 70 credit ADN program, to become eligible for the RN. 4. Registered Nurse Registered Nurses must pass the NCLEX RN exam, a National licensure credential for skilled nurses. Students may complete either a 2-year ADN degree or a 4 year BSN to be eligible for the RN exam. FIND A TRAINING PROGRAM NEAR YOU Vermont Career and Technical Education Centers Find programs in Health, Medical and Sports Science. For youth and adults. Burlington Technical Center, Burlington Central Vermont Technical Center, Barre Cold Hollow Career Center, Enosburg Falls Center for Technology, Essex Green Mountain Technology and Career Center, Lamoille Hartford Career and Technology Center, White River Junction Lyndon Institute for Career and Technical Education, Lyndon North Country Career Center, Newport Northwest Technical Center, St Albans Randolph Technical Career Center, Randolph River Bend Career and Technical Center, Bradford River Valley Technical Center, Springfield St Johnsbury Career and Technical Education, St Johnsbury Stafford Technical Center, Rutland Southwest Vermont Career Development Center, Bennington Windham Regional Career Center, Brattleboro UVM Health Network (LNA) Community College of Vermont (Nursing Prep Sequence) Vermont Technical College (LNA, LPN, ADN, BSN) Castleton State University (RN - BSN, BSN) Norwich University (BSN, ABSN, MSN) University of Vermont (BSN, AMSN, MSN, DNP)

GENEROUS FUNDING PARTNERS OTHER CONTRIBUTORS: Cabot Creamery Chroma Technology Corp. Cynosure Engelberth Construction Geoff Glaspie MKF Properties Southwestern Vermont Health Care Vermont Electric Power Company (VELCO) University of Vermont Health Network

Our Progress in Healthcare CASE FOR SUPPORT A Skilled Nursing Shortage The healthcare industry currently comprises 13% of Vermont’s jobs. According to Vermont Labor Market Information, healthcare employed approximately 37,625 people in the first half of 2021, up approximately 1% from calendar year 2020, yet 4% lower than the pre-pandemic levels of 2019. Vermont has recently joined the interstate nurse licensure compact, therefore any nurse licensed in a participating state is eligible to work in Vermont. This recent legislation will allow for an increased hiring pool for Vermont healthcare facilities. Since the pandemic, emergency rule flexibility has been provided by the Legislature to waive exams and fees for Vermont license and re-licensure, to expand the number of nurses who can practice in our state. Organizing the Healthcare Collaborative The Vermont Talent Pipeline’s Healthcare Collaborative is comprised of 43 Vermont hospitals, residential care, and home health organizations, which are diverse in size and geography. They initially convened in 2018 to address the shared needs for skilled talent, primarily in the field of nursing. All levels of nurses were found to be in short supply. The collaborative convened again in 2021 conducting a new needs assessment to understand the changing needs in Vermont’s healthcare industry. Traveling nurses are currently hired by even the smallest employers to meet daily care requirements. And with an aging population, we see an exponential demand for nurses with more retirements and more care needed. Participating Healthcare Collaborative employers identified seven critical jobs categories representing their greatest need for new and replacement hiring between 2021-23. VTPM forecast a demand for 6244 nursing FTEs, with related credentials, using a needs assessment survey for these critical jobs: Registered Nurses Licensed Nurse Assistants (LNA) Psychiatric Technicians Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) Medical Assistants Nurse Practitioners Clinical Nurse Educators VTPM produced a report in 2018 and 2021 for Vermont’s nurse education providers, relating to the industry’s hiring demands. The reports provide both a qualitative and quantitative summary, the competencies required for short-term training in “stackable” high demand skills within education pathways. On the supply side, Vermont’s Higher Education Nursing programs identified clinical educators as the top barrier to growth. With an estimated $115M in 2021 budgeted for hospitals and residential care facilities traveling nurses (VAHHS and VHCA), tapping investments in Education for those most likely to stay and work in Vermont could produce the best return on investment. In August 2018 we learned that Vermont Technical College produces approximately 65% of all licensed skilled nurses in Vermont, and they have the best retention rates for nurses of any Vermont training provider. Not surprisingly VTC licensure candidates are mainly non-traditional students, many who benefit from VTCs 1+1+2 program (LPN, ADN, and BSN) and work while gaining their education. The barrier to educational expansion was identified as the need for clinical education instruction and placements. Next steps will rely on the healthcare community to provide clinical experiences using trained practicing nurses. Other improvements involve workplace shift supports, hiring efficiencies, career awareness and preparation activities with on-ramps for middle, high school and adult candidates. In 2021 we forecast a need for 1300 Registered Nurses in Vermont per year, while in 2019 only 293 completed RN licensing programs. In an effort to double the number of students licensed in the next several years, we’re planning for larger and more skilled nursing applicant preparation. A series of four prerequisites (available at CCV and Vermont’s Career and Technical Center with dual enrollment options), we’re improving the number and quality of applicants, and those with an additional LNA credential, too. But there’s more work to be done! Though we’re building a training pipeline with stackable credentials, only a given % of licensed nurses will remain in Vermont without a thoughtful implementation of best employment practices. Employer goals for 2021 include investing in clinical educator training and coordination with Vermont nurse educators. Additionally, we hope to layer federal apprenticeship funding to assist employers in growing their own people. Working together, we will double the number of enrolled applicants who are better prepared to attain licensure and specialty experience, thereby reducing the costs for traveling nurses and the mounting costs associated with turnover. Stackable nursing credentials provide a low-barrier on-ramp to the nursing profession, that progress with experience and education levels. Studies show a 94% retention rate for four years following apprenticeship completion. Apprenticeships invite all ages to enter a career path with training and pay within the safe, productive, high-paying field of nursing. Download Case for Support for Print

Our Progress in Advanced Manufacturing CASE FOR SUPPORT A Manufacturing Talent Shortage Vermont Labor Market Information indicates as of February of 2021, Vermont employed 28,700 people in manufacturing, about the same number as one year earlier. However, much has changed in the labor participation rate, down about 30,000 or 20% from last year, due to the far-reaching effects of the pandemic. With unemployment again at around 2%, the shortage of skilled manufacturing workers demands a shared strategy. Organizing the Manufacturing Collaborative Outcomes Vermont Talent Pipeline’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative is comprised of ~60 makers of durable, non-durable and food-related products. The collaborative organized in fall of 2018 to address the shared needs for skills and talent. The largest demand, for Production Assemblers and Operators, provides high-wage entry points to manufacturing careers, leading to the next level of Team Leaders, CNC Machinists and Equipment Technicians. Also in demand are Design Engineers to develop new products, and Production Engineers to improve processes and reduce waste. In 2018, the original 34 participating Manufacturers identified five critical roles representing the demand for new and replacement hiring between 2018-20. 100% of the employers responded to the demand planning survey forecasting 1380+ jobs as: Production Assemblers/Operators CNC Machinists Equipment Technicians Team Leaders Engineers (Design & Production) The Supply Side We provide this demand data to Vermont’s educators. With required competencies and credentials for each role, they develop and align training to serve industry - and the labor force with job-ready skills. This was the initiation for industry recognition of short-term “stackable” credentials for high-demand skills and careers in Vermont manufacturing. Target audiences includes youth and adult STEM and Manufacturing program participants, delivered at Career and Technical Education Centers, CCV and VTC. We also build awareness among High School and work-based learning students, and Vermont Department of Labor’s job seekers and changers. Today, we build awareness, exploration and preparation for manufacturing careers, through apprenticeship opportunities and a videoconference series called “Exploring Careers in Manufacturing” for students and adults engaged in Manufacturing or STEM credentials. Each of these sessions has drawn dozens of skilled participants to career planning dialogues direct with hiring employers. Each session is followed by job applications and interviews. Public and Philanthropic training funds are in use by employers and individuals to braid available resources. Registered Apprenticeships, funded by Vermont’s Department of Labor, delivered through sponsoring Community College of Vermont and Vermont Technical College make training accessible to business and labor participants. When we began this work in 2018, there was no skill standard for manufacturing. Today, the Manufacturing Collaborative recognizes the MSSC Certified Production Technician (CPT) and Siemens Mechatronics as the gold standards for production hiring. These credential command a higher wage, yet result in work-ready skills, advancement opportunities and better retention. Join the Collaborative Part of the attraction to manufacturing jobs are high-wage salaries and career opportunities. Working together, manufacturers have developed incentives to join the industry including messaging valued career opportunities which feature paid-for training with college credit - a route to credential and degree completion without debt. We welcome your participation in the Manufacturing Collaborative. Please consider a 3-year tax-deductible, charitable contribution to the VBR Research and Education Foundation to support the Vermont Talent Pipeline. Download Case for Support for Print

Funded Training How to Have Your Training Funded Develop a Training Budget and Apply NOW. Several funding resources will help pay for training for existing employees. Please use these resources (easily accessed via phone or email) to create a budget for all your employees’ training needs between now and June 30, 2019. Funds are limited, and distributed on a first come, first served basis, so please apply now to receive the full amount requested. FOR EMPLOYERS: Vermont Training Program funds are administered by the Vermont Agency of Commerce. 50% of training costs are available until depleted (usually end of Feb). Please email john.young@vermont.gov or call 802-355-2725 to request funds for 2018-19. Workforce Education and Training Fund, administered by the Vermont Department of Labor. Some or all training costs for incumbent workers in critical jobs. Please email sally.redpath@vermont.gov or call 802-828-4393 for more information. FOR INDIVIDUALS: VSAC non-credit, non-degree grants, based on financial need. Up to $3,000 per person. Please visit the VSAC website, or call 802-654-3750 or 800-642-3177. VSAC and the Community College of Vermont have teamed up to offer Vermonters with a family income of $100,000 or less the opportunity to attend CCV tuition free. Dislocated Workers are eligible for Federal training funds through the Workforce Investment Opportunities Act (WIOA.) Vermont Technical College has been approved as an eligible provider for these funds. Contact the Vermont Department of Labor, (802) 863-7676 to speak with a WIOA Grant Specialist.