Plant security: How to manage a moving target. Plant Services 1/8 “For some, the September 2019 drone attack on Saudi Aramco oil facilities was a wakeup call. Industrial, utility, and other critical infrastructure are subject to ever-evolving external security threats; while cyberattacks have become inevitable, physical risks are intensifying as well. Understanding this harsh truth […]
Governor’s State of the State Address | Press Release and Text
From the Governor’s Press Release: Governor Phil Scott today delivered his 2020 State of the State address, calling for unity and collaborative leadership in making a difference in the lives of Vermonters across the state. The Governor cited Vermont’s growing demographic crisis as the largest threat to sustainable growth. With addressing demographic trends being the […]
Federal Updates | Court Cases Impacting Manufacturers and Other Employers
The following updates are provided in cooperation with our national allies at NAM. NAM Calls on Court to Protect Spousal Work Permits. The NAM, along with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and Information Technology Industry Council, is calling on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit to protect H-4 work permits for spouses […]
On the Wire | News & Analysis from the Web for the Week of March 18
Casting a Wide Net to Attract Manufacturing Talent. IndustryWeek 3/21 “The light is a little too dim for Carolyn Lee, executive director of the Manufacturing Institute at the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM.) She wants the industry to shine a brighter light on itself and attract the recognition it deserves. . . .” U.S. labor market solid; manufacturing […]
UPDATED | New Legislation
The following are bills introduced in the Legislature this year that might be of particular interest to members, with first the House bills and then the Senate bills. Click on the bill number for more about texts, sponsors, procedural history, and other information. Keep in mind that the statements of purpose provided below are part […]
4th Annual National Apprenticeship Week in Vermont
This week is the fourth National Apprenticeship Week with the theme of “Apprenticeships: Creating Tomorrow. National Apprenticeship Week provides an opportunity to showcase how businesses, labor, educational institutions, trade and industry groups, and public officials across the nation are expanding apprenticeships to develop a skilled, dedicated workforce. Also recognized by the state of Vermont, Apprenticeship […]
On the Wire | News & Analysis from the Web for the Week of November 5
SEC to review corporate democracy rules risking investor clash. Reuters 11/9 “The U.S. securities regulator is set to review this month rules on corporate democracy, setting it up for a clash with investors who worry the agency will side with companies to diminish voting rights on charged issues like climate change and gun violence. . . .” NSA official: […]
Vermont Launches New Innovation Grant Program
Agency of Commerce & Community Development Secretary Michael Schirling announced the launch of the ThinkVermont Innovation Grant Program during the second annual Innovation Spaces Conference at Vermont Technical College. The ThinkVermont Innovation Grant Program, proposed by the Scott Administration and passed in partnership with the Legislature, was created to respond to the growth needs of […]
State Workforce Development System Report and Recommendations
The Legislature last year directed the Commissioner of Labor and the Chair of the State Workforce Development Board to convene a working group on the state’s workforce development system. The S.135 Working Group was formed and produce a report for the legislature. For the final report and recommendations from the S.135 Working Group, as required […]
Governor’s Award for Business Excellence in Supporting Mature Workers
The Governor’s Award for Business Excellence in Supporting Mature Workers recognizes Vermont employers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to employment practices that benefit and support the inclusion and retention of mature workers. Employers who believe they have employment practices and policies that are highly supportive of the mature workforce are encouraged to apply. Key selection criteria […]