Keynotes from regional and national experts explore innovation, sustainability, and growth in Vermont’s manufacturing sector
Vermont Business Magazine The Vermont Chamber of Commerce has announced the keynote presentations for the 2025 Vermont Manufacturing Summit, taking place November 19–20, 2025, at Hotel Champlain in Burlington.
Bringing together manufacturers, suppliers, and experts from across Vermont, New England, and Canada, this year’s Summit will focus on collaboration, innovation, and opportunity, addressing the challenges and possibilities shaping the future of manufacturing. Over two days, attendees will explore strategies for strengthening supply chains, navigating regulatory changes, advancing workforce development, and embracing sustainable and technological innovation.
Through keynote presentations, expert-led discussions, and B2B networking powered by My Business Matches™, participants will connect with peers and partners across the region. The advanced matchmaking platform enables personalized one-on-one and group meetings between buyers and suppliers, helping businesses identify opportunities, forge partnerships, and maximize the return on their Summit experience.
Keynote presentations include:
- Beyond the Building: Creative Strategies for Manufacturing Expansion, Laura Mack, Award-Winning Ice Cream Maker and Founder, lu•lu; Diane Abruzzini Riggs, Chief Operating Officer, Rigorous; Garret Hirchak, CEO and Founder, Manufacturing Solutions, Inc.
- As demand grows, many manufacturers face the same challenge—how to expand capacity without expanding their footprint. This session explores innovative, non-traditional approaches to growth that go beyond bricks and mortar. Industry leaders will share real-world examples and practical resources to help manufacturers maximize existing space, leverage technology, and rethink their processes for smarter scaling.
- Tax Strategies for Manufacturers: What You Need to Know, Elisia G. Laramee, CPA, Tax Senior Manager–R&D Specialist; Kevin D. Holmes-Henry, CPA, CMA, MBA, Senior Manager, Client Accounting; Roberto J. Pierre, CPA, CMA, Manager, Client Accounting Services, Gallagher, Flynn & Company
- Experts from Gallagher, Flynn & Company—one of the region’s most respected tax and advisory firms—will discuss how manufacturers can leverage research and development (R&D) tax credits to fuel innovation, reduce costs, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving market. This session will highlight often-overlooked credits available for process improvements such as automation, lean manufacturing, and quality enhancements. Attendees will gain insights into qualifying activities, documentation strategies, and legislative updates that impact credit eligibility.
- The Future of Manufacturing: Closed-Loop Supply Chains and Remanufacturing Operations, Akshay Mutha, Ph.D., University of Vermont Grossman School of Business
- As manufacturers face increasing pressure to reduce costs, minimize waste, and meet sustainability goals, the transition to circular business models is gaining momentum. This session will explore the principles and practical applications of closed-loop supply chains and remanufacturing operations. Attendees will learn how companies can recover value from returned products, design processes that extend product lifecycles, and implement systems that drive both economic and environmental benefits.
- Plastics Manufacturing & Sustainability, Adam Peer, Senior Director of Plastics Sustainability, American Chemistry Council
- Plastics are essential to modern life—from medical devices to advanced materials—but the industry is also at the forefront of sustainability challenges and innovations. Adam Peer will share how plastics manufacturing is evolving to drive economic growth, support environmental responsibility, and shape the future of sustainable materials.
“The Vermont Manufacturing Summit provides a powerful platform for manufacturers to connect, learn, and lead,” said Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce. “Through collaboration and innovation, Vermont’s manufacturing community continues to strengthen our economy, advance sustainability, and create opportunities for future growth.”
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is committed to advancing Vermont’s manufacturing sector through collaboration, education, and advocacy. The Vermont Manufacturing Summit is made possible through the generous support of APEX Accelerators, Collins Aerospace, Gallagher, Flynn, and Company, VMEC, American Chemistry Council, Ametek, Business Resource Services, GlobalFoundries, and the Vermont Department of Economic Development. Registration for the 2025 Vermont Manufacturing Summit is open now. The deadline to register is November 14. For details and to register, visit vtchamber.com/vermont-manufacturing-summit.
About the Vermont Chamber of Commerce
The Vermont Chamber of Commerce is dedicated to advancing the Vermont economy. Trusted by the businesses that make living, working, and thriving in Vermont possible, we prioritize collaboration and uphold the core values that define our state. As the preeminent not-for-profit business organization, we advocate, build community, and provide resources for businesses statewide.
Montpelier, VT (October 30, 2025) – Vermont Chamber of Commerce
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