VMEC and Generator Makerspace will play co-hosts for this exciting event that focuses on the importance of careers in manufacturing, inspiring the future manufacturing workforce.
The afternoon will include two networking opportunities, facility tour, co-working space demonstrations and a panel discussion and Q&A with VT-based manufacturing leaders in their respective industries sharing their knowledge and experience in the Advanced Manufacturing world. Also, we will make available a resource area for all attendees – be sure to bring your hard copy collateral materials and holders for a) open positions that you’re currently hiring for and/ or b) a company-specific brochure or flyer that’s focused on your product/ service. We also welcome you to bring a small item to display that depicts a product that your company manufactures or showcases. Please send a brief e-mail ([email protected]) to Robynn Albert, VMEC Marketing and Training Manager, by Tuesday, October 8 describing what you will bring so we can ensure there is table space in the resource area.
A cash bar tended by Queen City Brewery, an alcohol-free bar service tended by tonique and light hors d’oeuvres will be available on-site.
If you’ve not been to Generator before, this event will provide the perfect opportunity to check out one of Burlington’s premier makerspaces in action! And if you have visited, what a perfect time for a refresher. Both the tour and Makerspace demonstrations will highlight Generator as an artist studio, classroom, and business incubator at the intersection of art, science, and technology. It provides the tools, expertise, education, and opportunity to enable every member of our community to create, collaborate and make their ideas reality. Generator workshop spaces include wood, metal, rapid prototyping, jewelry, sewing and electronics.
Just before the panel discussion begins, we’ll hear from Tinotenda Rutanhira, Executive Director, Business Development and Co-Founder, VT-Professionals of Color Network, who will offer a brief overview of VTPOC’s new program, Newcomer Nexus.
In addition to speaking about their Advanced Manufacturing journey as a strategic and competitive advantage, our panel will address topics such as adapting to the rapid pace of technological change, partnering and collaborating across organizations, hiring and upskilling their current workforce and more.
Our panel will include:
- Julie LaForce, President & Director of Organizational Development, Built By Newport
- Diane Abruzzini, COO and Co-Founder, Rigorous Technology
- Kalyn Bixler, Global Director of Manufacturing, OnLogic
- Sarah DeShaw, Team Member, Workforce Development, BETA Technologies
Panel moderator will be Kevin Chu, Executive Director, Vermont Futures Project.
The event is free to attend and registration is required.
Photo Credit – Generator Makerspace