2 minute read
Meet the Board
Every month "Around the Chamber" will introduce our readers to a member of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
In this issue, we introduce you to ACCOC Board Member Marty Kulczyk owner of the Robert Frost Cabins in Ripton.
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How long have you lived and/or worked in Addison County?
I have resided in Ripton for 18 years. I commuted to Burlington for the first 6 and developed / operated Robert Frost Mountain Cabins for the past 12 years.
Tell us about your career?
Following four years of duty in the US Army, I spent 12 years working for Texas Instruments at facilities in the US, Asia and Mexico. I specialized in manufacturing “turn-arounds” and problem solving both technical and organizational in nature. My wife and I chose to relocate to Vermont to develop and operate a cabin rental business. The vision was the genesis for Robert Frost Mountain Cabins. We both worked in Burlington as we developed our property and business.
In 2023, what do you see as the most challenging issue(s) facing business in Addison County?
I hear the same thing from businesses across all industry segments. The biggest challenge is staffing. The labor shortage has only gotten worse during and post pandemic.
How long have you volunteered with the Chamber’s Board?
I have served on the Board of Directors since 2018.
The Chamber of Commerce’s role in supporting business and non-profits in Addison County is always evolving. In your view, what should be the Chamber’s strategic direction coming out of the pandemic?
Other than Middlebury College and Porter Medical Center, the businesses in Addison County are classified as small businesses. As such, they need help adjusting to the fast pace of change in technology. It permeates every function and is very difficult to remain current and efficient. Support via seminars and business to business mentoring is critical to our collective success.
Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?
My wife and I choose to became part of an intentional community in Ripton. It is the wisest decisions we ever made. We are blessed to live in this “brave little state” in the heart of the Green Mountain National Forest with neighbors of like values.
