Around the Chamber-August-2024

AROUND THE CHAMBER August 2024

In This Issue 2 - Nominations Open 13 - CEO Spotlight (David Blittersdorf) 24 - Behind the Scenes (Julie Basol, Vergennes Partnership) 32 - Chamber Briefs (Meet our Intern) 39 - Member Spotlight (Middlebury Skateboard Project)

Don’t Miss Vergennes Day 8/24!

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r o f l l Ca ! s n o i t a n i Nom

Chamber Members. nominate your fellow members in the following categories. 2024 Awardees will be honored at our Annual Award Dinner in October.

2024 AWARD CATEGORIES Business of the Year

SAVE THE DATE 2024 Annual Awards, Hall of Fame Induction and Meeting Thursday Evening October 24th 5:00 - 8:00 PM Dinner, Annual Meeting, Awards, Hall of Fame Induction The Historic Vergennes Opera House, Vergennes, VT.

Non-Profit of the Year Buster Brush Award Young Professional of the Year Hall of Fame Inductees

NOMINATE HERE Nominations Close August 26th

Around the Chamber

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MEMBER CEO SPOTLIGHT

David Blittersdorf, CEO David Blittersdorf is an entrepreneur and trained engineer with more than four decades of experience in the renewable energy industry, seeking to help prepare humanity for future energy constraints.

Growing up in southern Vermont within hiking distance of the site of the world’s first utility-scale wind turbine, David became fascinated with wind and solar energy at an early age, built windpowered devices to help operate his maple sugarhouse, and was inspired by the Carter administration’s 1979 installation of solar panels on the roof of the White House. This early interest has sustained a career building successful renewable energy companies based on innovative and reliable products, with a focus on lean manufacturing and a “triple bottom line” of responsibility to people, profits and the planet.

David received an associate’s degree in Mechanical Design Engineering Technology from the Wentworth Institute of Technology in 1977, and earned his bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Vermont in 1981.

The following year, he founded NRG Systems in Hinesburg, Vermont, and over the next 23 years developed the business into a global leader in wind measurement technology. He stepped down as CEO of NRG Systems in 2004 to establish AllEarth Renewables, which designs and manufactures grid-tied, dual-axis solar PV tracking systems for residential, commercial and utility-scale applications.

In 2014, David received an honorary doctorate of Engineering Technology from the Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston.

In addition to running AllEarth Renewables as the company’s founder and President/CEO, David volunteers his time to organizations connected with renewable energy, energy education, and preparing for a post-peak-oil world. He served as treasurer of the American Wind Energy Association for 16 years until the spring of 2010, and subsequently was a founding member and treasurer of the Distributed Wind Energy Association.

MEMBER CEO SPOTLIGHT

David Blittersdorf, CEO He is a founding member and past chair of Renewable Energy Vermont, and chairs the board of advisors for the University of Vermont’s Rubenstein School of Environment and Natural Resources. He has served on the board of Net Zero Vermont, and the Post Carbon Institute, as well as being a trustee for Wentworth Institute of Technology.

For David, it all comes down to community, and his investments in the community extend well beyond solar. Within the past decade, David has led separate entities in building two utility-scale solar farms, including a 10 MW, four-turbine wind farm that helps power the city of Burlington, VT. He has also been an outspoken advocate for sustainable transportation, with a push to promote the use of passenger rail across the state Recently, his vision for sustainable, resilient communities has led him to his newest venture into property development. Together with business partner Kevin Harper and local Addison County community partners, Stoney Hill Properties was born - which provided the town with a brand new Firehouse, 20 affordable housing units, and the establishment of Stoney Hill Business Park.

Meanwhile, he played a significant role in the development of AllEarth Renewables’ new netpositive facility, which became the flagship property within Bristol’s Stoney Hill Business Park. Recognized for its integrated design approaches for energy efficiency, health and affordability, the building was recently Awarded an Efficiency Vermont Best of the Best Award in Large Commercial New Construction category at the 2024 Better Business by Design Conference.

The decision to relocate stemmed from the company's growth and the resulting need for a more spacious, modern workplace to accommodate its growing team and meet the rising demand for solar energy solutions. The move also signifies Blittersdorf’s legacy coming full circle, returning to his roots. 42 years ago, the humble beginnings of NRG Systems came to life in a house on 44 North Street, marking the budding of Blittersdorf’s business career. From there, AllEarth Renewables emerged, shaping Blittersdorf’s remarkable journey.

MEMBER CEO SPOTLIGHT

David Blittersdorf, CEO “For me, it feels like coming home,” expressed Blittersdorf. “If we are going to face today’s challenges, it all comes down to community. Bristol is a great community that has everything you need within walking distance.”

With an emphasis on energy education and a push toward conservation, he recognizes the need to take action now to change our energy infrastructure and shape the transition to a renewable future - instead of having it shape us.

“Here in Vermont, we are very well equipped to make the transition toward a sustainable future because we are a small state where rapid change is possible, we understand what’s at stake, and we have the motivation to act. My hope is that Vermont can model what needs to happen with renewables, conservation, and efficiency–and do it quickly enough to create a viable energy future that will withstand the coming shocks to our climate and our economy and help transition us toward a new beginning."

AllEarth Renewables is a national leader in solar energy, with over 7,000 installations throughout the country, including over 3,500 in Vermont. AllEarth Solar Trackers are fully designed, engineered and built in Bristol, Vermont. AllEarth Renewables employs approximately 25 Vermonters, many of whom are Addison County residents, and is the only 100% engineered and manufactured solar solutions provider in the state.

s e n e c S e h t Behind with Julie Basol

Each month, "Behind the Scenes" features an interview with a leader in our community designed to provide readers a glimpse into his/her interests and passions inside and outside of the workplace This month, "Behind the Scenes" sat down with Basol, Executive Director of the Vergennes Partnership What is your hometown?

I was born and raised on a farm outside Portland, North Dakota near the fabled city of Fargo.

Where did you go to school?

After high school, I attended the Lowthian School of Fashion Merchandising in Minneapolis, then later, received my Bachelor of Business Administration degree from Iowa State University.

First ever job?

I was the resident babysitter of the neighborhood, tending to my cousin’s children, of which there were many.

Who do you most admire?

I admire entrepreneurs who put their own finances on the line to build their business and create fine offerings to the public - especially the many men and women in the Little City!

Photo by:Caleb Kenna

Julie Basol

Who was your greatest inspiration growing up?

In high school, I was very active in the Future Business Leaders of America. I participated in work-study at the local, family-owned department store. Jon Grinager was the 3rd generation owner; I thought he was God. He got me involved in marketing, payroll, buying, and all things related to running a business and the importance of community Favorite Vacation Spot?

I have no one favorite spot as I’ve yet to explore many interesting places on this planet. I love a good sandy beach; I love to explore historical buildings and places; put me on a sailboat anytime and anywhere and I’m happy. Turks & Caicos and Portugal are both near and dear to my heart.

s e n e c S e h t Behind with

Julie Basol Favorite movie, TV Show?

Captain Ron – google it.

Martin Short and Kurt Russell. A classic.

Favorite type of music?

I grew up on county, so I guess it’s in my blood – but I do love a good showtune!

Typical work week?

Part time at Vergennes Partnership, however, there’s typically something that needs to be addressed each day. Like most people, lots of emails and phone calls; lots of opportunity to meet and work with interesting people and projects. I continually seek new ways of promoting the City of Vergennes in its best light.

What's the greatest career risk you have taken?

My biggest risk (which in hind sight seems small) was in 1998 as I left my job at The University of Vermont with all its secure benefits, including health, vacation, sick leave and a good 401(K) to start my own marketing consulting business. I guess I was a remote worker before it was a household word!

Biggest Career Challenge?

Biggest career challenge is perhaps more like life challenge. In our early days my husband, Mark (a veterinarian), was working 6 and 7 days a week, along with on-call nights. With no regrets, I always knew that I’d be the ‘trailing’ spouse.

Throughout my adult life, however, the positions I’ve held have been rewarding in a multitude of ways. Again, no regrets!

What's the one thing you would like to see change in your business/industry?

Like the world in general, the world seems to continually spin faster and faster. We live in a sound-bite world where communication often gets clouded and ill-conceived. I accept that this won’t likely change, I just continually try to stay positive and keep my own messaging precise.

To learn more about the Little City and the Vergennes Partnership contact: Julie Basol, (802) 598-7424 vergennespartnership@gmail.com

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CHAMBER BRIEFS Getting to Know the Chamber’s Summer Intern Maggie Wong Where are you from?

Born and raised in the city of rats and late night street fights, New York is where I call home.

What is your college major?

In order to do my family taxes in the future, I have chosen to pursue a major in economics.

Why did you choose to attend Middlebury College?

For me, Middlebury College has been a 180 from New York City, with its welcoming people, vibrant environment, and convenient location that allowed me to begin my personal growth path without feeling too distant from home. My choice may have been further cemented by the dining halls' limitless crème’s.

What are your plans when you graduate? What does your career path look like?

Maggie Wong

It's difficult to genuinely consider or picture the future without feeling even the slightest bit afraid.

Afraid to the point I feel like I am walking into it blind. However, there is still a part of me that is genuinely excited to see where I go from here.. Whether an economic journalist, professor, or something else, I just know it will all be ok no matter what.

How did you like interning for the Chamber of Commerce this summer?

It's been great to intern at the Chamber of Commerce, where I get to work in a beautiful building with fantastic people. Even though I was only employed here for the summer, I always had a sense of belonging and was accepted for both my abilities and flaws. But the building's air conditioning system will always be my biggest adversary!

DID YOU KNOW?

As a member of the Chamber you can post your job openings on our job board for

FREE!

For more member benefits visit www.AddisonCounty.com/benefits

2024 COMMUNITY EVENT SPONSORSHIPSle Thank you to the organizations below that have already secured their sponsor positions for 2024!

Vergennes Day Vermont Gas Systems Gaines Insurance Porter Medical Center Kennedy Brothers Grand Senior Living Bristol Harvest Festival Mountain Community Health Vermont Gas Systems Bristol Financial Waitsfield Telecom Porter Medical Center Middlebury Car Show & Fall Festival Stone Motors IPJ Real Estate Silver Maple Construction Vermont Gas Systems Cambio Roasters Porter Medical Center National Bank of Middlebury Sweet Cecily Champlain Valley Equipment Mr. Ups

Promote your organization and support our community events in 2024! Limited Sponsorships are still available. Click on the icon above to learn more!

Join the Addison County organizations below and advertise in 2024 at the Addison County Visitor Center For complete information visit us HERE

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

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MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Photo by:Caleb Kenna

MEMBER SPOTLIGHT

Photo by:Caleb Kenna

HERE

HERE

Officers

Robert Feuerstein, Kennedy Brothers (Chair) Megan Mandigo, Marble Trail Financial (Treasurer) Nancy Foster, Champlain Valley Properties (Secretary) Phil Summers, ACCOC (Executive Director)

Directors

Dickie Austin, Black Sheep Bistro Amy Carlin: Middlebury College Doug Dewitt, Bristol Financial Services Meaghan McLaughlin, National Bank of Middlebury Ned Horton, Otter Creek Bakery and Deli Marty Kulczyk, Robert Frost Mountain Cabins Ben Fuller, The Richards Group Dr. Nicole MacTavish, Hannaford Technical School District

Article IV, Section D Designate Directors

Kathryn Torres, Better Middlebury Partnership Renny Perry, Addison County Economic Development Corp.

Renny Perry, Vergennes Partnership Bill Sayre, Addison County Regional Planning Commission Courtney Radford, Bristol Core