VHV Company Hosts National Apprenticeship Day Celebration
On April 29th, VHV Company proudly hosted a special event in Winooski to celebrate National Apprenticeship Day, in collaboration with the Vermont Department of Labor and key leaders in technical education. We were honored to be selected by the state to serve as the host site for this meaningful occasion.
Joining us were representatives from:
- The Center for Technology – Essex
- Central Vermont Career Center
- Northwest Career and Technical Center
- Flexible Pathways, Vermont Agency of Education
- ReSOURCE: A Nonprofit Community Enterprise Inc.
Together, we shared valuable insights and experiences related to apprenticeship programs and workforce development. VHV has built a strong reputation across Vermont through its registered apprenticeship programs for HVAC technicians, sheet metal workers, and plumbers—initiatives that provide hands-on learning, industry-recognized credentials, and real-world career pathways.
We’re grateful for the opportunity to highlight the success of our apprentices and to collaborate with partners who are equally committed to building the skilled workforce of tomorrow.
The day concluded with a tour of the Burlington High School/Burlington Technical Center construction site, where apprentices were hard at work installing mechanical systems under the mentorship of seasoned VHV professionals.
Jay Ramsey, the Vermont Workforce Development Director, had this to say about the day.
“This week, I had the pleasure of celebrating National Apprenticeship Week at an event hosted by VHV Company in Winooski. VHV has built a strong legacy through their registered apprenticeship programs for HVAC technicians, sheet metal workers, and plumbers. During the event, we highlighted their incredible partnerships with regional Career and Technical Education (CTE) centers—and I had the chance to meet several current CTE students who are already getting a head start in their apprenticeship journeys. The visit wrapped up with a tour of the new Burlington High School/Burlington Technical Center construction site. It was energizing to see apprentices in action, installing ductwork for the ventilation system under the guidance of experienced mentors. A true testament to learning by doing.”
The following are the responses to questions we posed to the attendees from the Assistant Director of Workforce Development Cindy Robillard.
What does National Apprenticeship Day mean to the Vermont Department of Labor?
National Apprenticeship Day is a nationwide observance established by the U.S. Department of Labor to recognize the importance of connecting individuals to meaningful careers and assisting employers in building a skilled workforce. The day highlights the vital role of registered apprenticeships in workforce development and often includes events hosted by industry, labor, and government leaders to showcase the successes and value of these programs.
Why did the Vermont DOL choose VHV to help celebrate this year’s event?
This year we chose to highlight VHV and celebrate their outstanding Registered Apprenticeship Program and commitment to ‘growing their own.’ VHV is our largest, single-employer program in Vermont offering training through Registered Apprenticeship for three separate occupations: Plumber, Sheet Metal Worker, and HVAC Service Technician. Even with as many as 70 apprentices at one time, the VHV team has done an amazing job of offering exceptional 1:1 mentoring, tracking the apprentice’s progress, and involving their own employees as instructors in the in-house related instruction for two of the occupations.
How do you see programs like VHV’s shaping the future of Vermont’s workforce?
Programs like VHV’s are essential in growing Vermont’s workforce. With an unemployment rate of only 2.6 percent, there is no question that businesses need to seek additional pathways to recruit, train, and retain employees; Registered Apprenticeship is a proven tool for workforce development with a return on investment of $1.47 for every $1 invested according to U.S. DOL statistics.
In addition, we wanted to showcase VHV’s strong partnerships with local Career and Technical Education Centers and other feeder programs such as ReSOURCE, VT Works for Women, and the VT Construction Academy, allowing them to build a pipeline for future workers.
What advice would you give to a high school student considering a career in the trades?
There is no better time for Vermont students to consider a career in the trades! With the projected shortage of skilled workers across the trades (electrical, plumbing, sheet metal, HVAC, carpentry), Registered Apprenticeship offers an alternative pathway to a highly skilled, high wage, rewarding career.
How can other businesses across Vermont get involved in apprenticeship and workforce development efforts?
The Vermont Department of Labor would love to talk with any VT business who is interested in learning more about offering a Registered Apprenticeship Program. Please reach out to labor.apprenticeship@vermont.gov to set up an introductory call. You may also visit our website, labor.vermont.gov, or reach out to your Regional Job Center team to hear about other ways VDOL can assist you with your recruitment and training needs.
