NAVIGATION
FROM UNDEREMPLOYMENT TO OPPORTUNITY: HOW VERMONT CAN BENEFIT FROM IMMIGRANT TALENT
by Jeetan Khadka
In Vermont, a state famous for its beautiful nature, strong community values, and progressive society, an invisible problem is developing behind the scenes: brain waste. Brain waste emerges when immigrants and refugees with high academic and professional qualifications cannot find suitable employment opportunities. Instead, many end up working in minimum wage jobs with low skill requirements. Not only does it negatively affect individuals, but it can also adversely affect the state.
Indeed, like many other states, Vermont faces significant demographic changes, particularly an aging population. As the number of working-age people decreases, the demand for skilled workers increases. From my perspective, educated and experienced immigrants in their fields can be a potential source for filling the gap between demand and supply in the workforce. Nevertheless, by not engaging immigrants in the workforce, we lose this valuable resource.
There is another article published in Seven Days called “As Immigration to Vermont Declines, a ‘Demographic Cliff’ Looms”, which also discusses the impact of the problem on the economy of Vermont and the role that immigrants play in addressing labor shortages. In my view, immigration is not only a political issue in Vermont; it is also a survival strategy, given the fact that the state is experiencing severe demographic decline. We must focus on the challenges faced by refugees and immigrants in Vermont’s workforce. Limited English-language proficiency, lack of accreditation for foreign credentials, and poor networking skills are key challenges to address.
This problem is not unique to Vermont; nationwide studies have shown that skilled immigrants in the United States often encounter similar issues. The disparity between the skills immigrants possess and the jobs they hold is, according to the Migration Policy Institute, among the top reasons for “brain waste” or underemployment. It results in these immigrants feeling underutilized and, consequently, frustrated and stressed out.
In Vermont, this problem is particularly pressing. The state’s aging population means more workers are retiring, creating gaps in sectors such as healthcare, education, and technology. The state is already grappling with labor shortages in these critical areas, and the current workforce will likely be unable to fill them. Immigrants, many of whom bring valuable skills and experience, could be key to solving this issue—but only if we find a better way to integrate them into the workforce.
It is apparent what actions must be taken. First, efforts should be made towards better credential recognition for immigrants. Although immigrants usually hold advanced degrees or certifications, these credentials are often not recognized by employers and professional boards. It is necessary to introduce reforms to state and federal legislation to streamline the evaluation of immigrants’ qualifications and credentials. Finally, language programs should be expanded to meet immigrants’ needs, including language training alongside the development of professional skills.
Networking is another crucial factor to consider. Most skilled workers cannot access job openings or career advancement without the proper connections. The state of Vermont and businesses should facilitate such connections within refugee and immigrant communities through networking initiatives in specific industries. This will also need to be addressed at a structural level through immigration policies that evolve with the current dynamics of the global labor market.
Investing in immigrant workforce development programs and creating initiatives that provide skilled immigrants with the resources and support they need will help fill critical labor shortages in our state. This goes beyond simply integrating immigrants into the economy – it strengthens Vermont’s ability to meet workforce demands in key sectors like healthcare, education, and technology.
Being an inclusive, welcoming state with a high value on community and opportunity, it is now time for us to realize that by including our immigrant brothers and sisters, many of whom would be more than happy to help with Vermont’s development, we can help bring about even greater success for our state. Can Vermont rise up to the challenge?
About the Author
Jeetan Khadka is a long-term Vermont resident and community advocate who is the Founder & Chief Empowerment Officer of PeopleFirst Workforce Solutions, a job placement and career coaching business dedicated to helping individuals—especially immigrants and refugees—access meaningful employment and career growth. With firsthand experience supporting newcomers as they navigate Vermont’s job market, he understands both the barriers they face and the untapped potential they bring. This opinion piece explores how Vermont can better harness the skills of its immigrant population to address critical workforce shortages and strengthen the state’s economic future.
COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT
This month’s spotlight is on Karla Elizalde (she/her)!
Karla has been in Vermont for 5 years and is currently living in Lyndonville. She works as a high school Spanish teacher in St. Johnsbury and is pursuing a master’s in Curriculum and Instruction to continue growing as an educator. Karla is motivated by seeing her students gain confidence, sharing Spanish music and culture, and creating a classroom where everyone feels safe, valued, and excited to learn.
news FROM THE NETWORK
Looking for 2026-2027 Writers & Spotlights!
VT PoC is looking to spotlight BIPOC community members in Vermont through our Saturday social media features and monthly newsletter! Slots for newsletter writers have also reopened, but are limited – don’t wait to toss your hat in the ring!
Social Media Spotlights: Please email mimi@vtpoc.net or DM us on Instagram!
Don’t Forget to Take Advantage of VT PoC’s Resources!
Looking for new opportunities or ways to get involved?
We offer a variety of resources to support you—personally and professionally!
| Other Resources | |
|---|---|
| Business Resources and Growth Inventory Survey | The Department of Economic Development created the following short survey to better understand the needs of Vermont businesses. If you own a business in Vermont, please take 5 minutes to complete the survey. |
| Snowsports and Outdoor Adventure Recreation Professional Certificate | The UVM Snowsports & Outdoor Adventure Recreation (SOAR) Certificate is a 15-week online program that builds business, operations, and sustainability skills for the outdoor industry. Learn from Vermont’s recreation leaders and prepare for careers in ski resort management, outdoor marketing, and adventure tourism. |
| Submit by September 1st: 2027 NOFA-VT Workshop Request for Proposal | Fuel the conversation at NOFA‑VT’s 2027 Winter Conference! Submit your workshop idea now for NOFA‑VT’s 2027 Winter Conference (Feb 13–15). The conference provides valuable educational opportunities for farmers, homesteaders, gardeners, land stewards, educators, students, producers, policy-makers, and other food system activists to participate in this vibrant community event by sharing ideas, resources, and skills. Proposals on topics and issues relevant to food and farming systems, skills and knowledge sharing, and policy and advocacy for systems change are all welcome. |
| Office Space Available for BIPOC Clinicians or Wellness Providers | Email Linda Lai Nga Li at linda@cattbyll.com or call 802-233-1527 to learn more! |
| 50% Off Slope Space Membership for VT PoC Members! | Slope Space is a coworking community at Mountain Green Resort in Killington — the only dedicated coworking space at a major East Coast ski resort. We offer flexible workspace solutions for freelancers, remote workers, and small businesses, including hourly drop-ins, shared desks, and dedicated desks, all backed by 1 Gbps business fiber. Check the newsletter in your email for the code! |
| Applications Open Now: Braiding Seeds Fellowship | For beginning BIPOC farmers and land stewards, 18 years of age and older, who are cultivating community and more resilient food futures! |
EVENTS
August 6 — VT PoC Membership Orientation: Welcome to The Fam!
New to VT PoC? Or maybe you have been following us for a while but still aren’t sure about all of our resources? Join us on the first Thursday of every month (except for this month because we were off) for our VT PoC Member Orientation: Welcome to The Fam!
We are excited to connect and help you get the most out of being part of the Fam!
| Date | Event | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 3 | Our Ancestors Want Us To Be Mushrooms Book Launch Event | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 4-8 | Addison County Fair & Field Days | Various Times | Vergennes |
| Aug 4, 18 | The Capoeira Sessions | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Brattleboro |
| Aug 5, 12, 19, 26 | Danville Farmers Market | 3:30 PM – 7:00 PM | Danville |
| Aug 6, 13, 20, 27 | Food Truck Roundup ($$) | 5:00 PM – 8:00 PM | Brattleboro |
| Aug 6, 20 | The Root Social Justice Center: BIPOC Writers Group | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 6, 13 | Party on the Bricks | 5:30 PM – 8:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 6 | Fairbanks Museum: Night Owl Club | 7:00 PM | St. Johnsbury |
| Aug 7 | Joy Riders: Birthday Skate | 6:45 PM – Sunset | Burlington |
| Aug 8, 15, 22, 29 | St. Johnsbury Farmers Market | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | St. Johnsbury |
| Aug 8, 15, 22, 29 | Burlington Farmers Market | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 8, 15, 22, 29 | Shelburne Farmers Market | 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Shelburne |
| Aug 8, 9 | Conscious Clothing Yard Sale | 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Winooski |
| Aug 8 | 22nd Annual August West Festival | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Jay |
| Aug 8 | Solarfest: The Gathering | TBD | Brandon |
| Aug 9 | The Root Social Justice Center: Soul Food Sunday | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Brattleboro |
| Aug 9 | Summer Forest Bathing: shinrin-yoku ($$) | 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Shelburne |
| Aug 15 | Stratton Vendors Village/Farmers Market | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Stratton |
| Aug 15 | 3rd Annual Momo Eating Contest ($$) | 5:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 16, 23 | The Root Social Justice Center: Youth & Adult D&D | 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM | Brattleboro |
| Aug 17 | Farm Tours: Vermont Wine | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | South Hero |
| Aug 18-22 | 2026 Vermont State Fair ($$) | Various Times | Rutland |
| Aug 21 | The Flynn: Angélique Kidjo ($$) | 7:30 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 22 | The Root Social Justice Center: BIPOC Hair Shop | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Brattleboro |
| Aug 22 | 44th Annual Vergennes Day | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Vergennes |
| Aug 22, 23 | Best of Vermont Summer Festival ($$) | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Ludlow |
| Aug 22 | Bread Baking Workshop with Jabari Saaed Jones ($$) | 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | Winooski |
| Aug 22 | First African Landing Day | 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 26-30 | Caledonia County Fair ($$) | Various Times | Lyndonville |
| Aug 28 | St. J Final Fridays | 5:00 PM – 8:30 PM | St. Johnsbury |
| Aug 29 | BTV Market | 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 29 | Splash Dance: DJ JP Black | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 29 | Back to Basics 2.0 Dancehall Party | TBD | Burlington |
| Aug 29 | Conscious Homestead Moon Circle Series ($$) | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Winooski |
| Sept 5 | Labor Day Festival with The Pinery & Black Sacred Soul | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM | Burlington |
trainings & professional development
| Date | Workshop | Time | Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| All Month | Vermont Joblink: Interview Skills, Career Guidance, Resume Prep, Etc. | Multiple | |
| All Month | FREE Professional Development Workshops for Artists | Multiple | |
| Aug 4 | CVOEO: Keys to Credit | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 4 | CVOEO: Tenant Skills | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 5, 19 | VtSBDC: Starting Your Own Business | 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM | Virtual |
| Aug 5 | CVOEO: Sustaining the Rent | 5:00 PM – 6:30 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 6, 13 | CVOEO: Spend SMART | 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 11 | CVOEO: Finding Housing | 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Virtual |
| Aug 19 | VOBA: Summer Networking Event | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Burlington |
| Aug 25 | Economic Mobility Initiative Event Series for All Businesses | 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM | South Burlington |
| Aug 27 | BIPOC Financial Empowerment Program | 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM | Virtual |
| Oct 6 | Vermont Community Leadership Summit | TBD | Castleton |
| Nov 4 | Annual NEK Together Conference | TBD | Island Pond |
| Nov 10 | 2026 Vermont Nonprofit Summit | 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM | South Burlington |
FUNDING & GRANTS
| Due Date | Grant | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| September 7 | Artist Development Grants | Funds activities that enhance mastery of an artist’s craft or skills or that increase the viability of an artist’s business. |
| November 1 | Nonprofit Development and Support Grant Program | Supports projects that strengthen organizational effectiveness and long-term sustainability, helping nonprofits better serve their communities. |
| Rolling | Charity Bridge Fund | Supports nonprofits facing federal funding cuts. |
| Rolling | UVM Medical Center Community Health Investment Fund | For federally recognized nonprofit or government organizations, must primarily support community members living in the UVM Medical Center’s primary health service areas and align with one or more of the 2025 top community health priorities. |
| Rolling | Green Mountain Home Repair | Offering grants up for home health & safety repairs for income eligible homeowners in the following towns: Andover, Jamaica, Londonderry, Weston, and Windham. Income limits are based on household size. |
| Rolling | Haymarket People’s Fund: Urgent Response Grants | Up to $5,000 to help grassroots social change organizations respond quickly to unforeseen crises or opportunities that critically affect your organization and constituency. Includes unexpected events, political crises, or organizing opportunities. Grants are NOT to be used for ongoing program work (including expenses the organization should have anticipated), for financial crises, a projected funding shortfall, or because the group missed a funding deadline. |
| Rolling | Nonprofit Enhanced Rebate | For eligible 501(c)(3) nonprofits to purchase qualifying equipment or complete a custom project. |
| Rolling | Vermont Humanities Rapid Response Grants | Quick turn-around small grants for humanities-focused community projects. Awards up to $1,000. |
| Rolling | Grassroots Fund: Seed Grants | Support for community groups who represent a broad range of voices in their community and who are not being reached by other funders. |
| Rolling | New England Presenter Travel Fund | Supports travel costs associated with researching artistic work that may eventually be presented in New England. |
| Rolling | Community Action Team | Offers general or project support within the broad guidelines and funding provided by the Ben & Jerry’s Foundation. |
| Rolling | USDA Small Business Cost Share Program | Businesses with fewer than 50 employees and gross profit under $1,000,000 are eligible. |
| Rolling | Social Equity: Vermont Cannabis Control Board | Individuals determined to meet social equity status by the Vermont Cannabis Control Board may be eligible. |
NEWS
Argentinean Food and Brazilian Flavors Arrive in Quechee
At Two Bistro & Café in the Upper Valley, Paula Fernandes and Adrian Abate serve up Brazilian pastries by morning and Argentinean meats into the evening.
Jamaican Taste Cuisine Cooks Homestyle Dishes in Burlington
Natalie Bailey is simmering up the classics of her native Caribbean island, such as oxtail stew and curry goat, in her small restaurant on lower Church Street.
Sabor Ecuatoriano Serves Ecuadorian Cuisine in Winooski
The Main Street restaurant highlights the South American country’s most popular dishes, owner Alberto Alejandro Castro Guaman said. It will add a bar this month.
Campo Opens in Waterbury With American-Meets-Latin Menu
Chef-owner Josue Chanduvi blends snack-shack classics and his Peruvian Cuban heritage in the multifaceted food operation he has launched at Zenbarn.
