Burlington, Vt. (April 1, 2026) – Alex Bunten, director of workforce and education at the Lake Champlain Chamber, has completed the 2025–26 Fellowship for Talent Development, a national program led by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) Foundation.
Over six months, the fellowship convened chamber leaders from across the country to take a closer look at one of the most pressing issues facing communities like ours: building and sustaining a strong local workforce. Participants examined what’s working, where gaps remain, and how to better align talent pipelines with regional needs.
“Vermont’s workforce challenges don’t come with one-size-fits-all solutions,” said Bunten. “This experience offered the chance to step back, learn from peers, and bring home ideas that can make a real difference here.”
Through peer exchange and shared problem-solving, participants explored practical and innovative approaches to workforce development, leaving better equipped to help their communities adapt and grow.
“Supporting our members through workforce challenges isn’t new work for us – it’s long-term, steady work that’s only becoming more important,” said Cathy Davis, president and CEO of the Lake Champlain Chamber. “This fellowship helps sharpen how we show up for our business community, connect the right partners, and keep building a workforce system that works for Vermont – not just today, but for the long haul.”
As part of the fellowship, Bunten developed a regional action plan focused on improving coordination across partners, expanding co-op pathways with local colleges to retain graduates, and creating practical tools to support employers in attracting and welcoming new workers. The three-page document can be accessed here (LINK).
“We are proud to recognize this exceptional group of chamber leaders for completing the Fellowship for Talent Development,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “Through their work, they have moved beyond learning to action – developing strategies that strengthen talent pipelines and support long-term economic prosperity in their communities.”
The Fellowship for Talent Development is part of the ACCE Foundation’s ongoing commitment to advancing economic mobility and strengthening the role of chambers in workforce and talent initiatives.