Eagle Times Staff
RUTLAND, Vt. — Vermont Adult Learning (VAL) recently welcomed Kim Rupe Lennox as the organization’s new director of workforce development and Haley Lebel-Stephen as Community and Workforce Engagement Manager. Both roles are focused on expanding Energy Works, VAL’s innovative training program designed to meet Vermont’s green energy workforce needs.
Kim Rupe Lennox came to VAL from the Chamber & Economic Development of the Rutland Region and the Vermont Council on Rural Development working in varying roles within economic, community and workforce development. Rupe Lennox will oversee the continued development and expansion of VAL’s workforce development program.
A Rutland native, Rupe Lennox is an active member of Vermont’s business community, serving as a council member for the Vermont Women’s Fund, a board member for Community Capital of Vermont, a member of the Northeast Kingdom Young Professionals Network Steering Committee, and former President of Rutland Young Professionals.
“Energy Works has grown exponentially since its inception in 2021, while employment needs continue to rise across Vermont,” said Rupe Lennox. “Our workforce development team is committed to supporting these needs by expanding our reach to new regions across the state, providing employment opportunities and career paths to Vermonters who are passionate about the green energy sector and supporting employers by providing quality candidates with the necessary skills to support their work.”
Haley Lebel-Stephen, also a Rutland native, transitioned to VAL’s Workforce Development team after four years as a VAL Reach Up Employment, Training, and Education Specialist. She brings a wealth of experience in workforce development via one-on-one career coaching, community engagement, and marketing and communications to her new position. Haley’s new role with VAL oversees Energy Works recruitment and marketing efforts as well as providing personalized job readiness support to program participants.
“Energy Works offers community members the opportunity to enter a high-demand industry with training and support from beginning to end. My role allows for increased relationship building with participants, provides individualized support and makes connections between participants and local employers,” said Lebel-Stephen. “Getting participants started on a new career path while helping to fill vacant positions in the community really is the best of both worlds.”
Rupe Lennox and Lebel-Stephen join David Justice, VAL’s Associate Director, and Jeff Nerney, Energy Works Project Coordinator, who have contributed to the ongoing development of the Energy Works program since its inception in September 2021.
“It is an honor to have joined such a dedicated team that is working diligently to support Vermont’s workforce and I look forward to collaborating with employers and community partners to expand our workforce by continuing to provide free training opportunities for Vermonters,” added Rupe Lennox.
To learn more about Energy Works, visit vtadultlearning.org/energy-works/ or reach out to Kim Rupe Lennox at [email protected].
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