Made Local: Automation in Values-Driven Businesses

Join Rigorous & VBSR in Exploring Automation’s Role in Workplace Culture and Growth

Automation isn’t just about increasing efficiency, it’s also about supporting employees, attracting talent, and helping Vermont businesses thrive.

Join Rigorous Technology, in partnership with VBSR, for a hands‑on showcase exploring how automation can strengthen workplace culture, support workforce development, and help Vermont businesses grow, while staying true to people‑centered values. You’ll experience manufacturing technologies up close in a mini trade‑show environment and hear directly from local leaders who are putting automation to work in meaningful ways, including iAutomation and Rigorous Technology.

We will hear from Birnn Chocolates of Vermont about how automation has supported its people-first workplace while fueling business growth, followed by insights from the UVM College of Engineering and Mathematical Sciences on how advanced manufacturing technologies can help attract, develop, and retain Vermont’s workforce.

If you think automation is only for large manufacturers, you may be surprised by how accessible and affordable today’s solutions have become!

Whether you’re already investing in automation or simply curious about what’s possible, you’ll leave with practical examples, local connections, and a better understanding of how new technologies can align with your business values.

Speakers

Diane Abruzzini - Co-founder and Chief Operating Officer at Rigorous Technology

Julia Birnn Fields - President/ 4th Generation Owner of Birnn Chocolates of Vermont

Keith Epstein - University of Vermont Engineering Capstone Senior Lecturer, Department of Mechanical Engineering, SEED Program Director

Thank you to our host!

Thank you to our sponsors!

Cabot Creamery is a farmer-owned cooperative that’s been making award-winning products with love, pride and purpose for over a century. The high-quality milk produced by the Cabot farm families throughout New England and New York is crafted into dairy products including, “The World’s Best Cheddar.” As the first dairy co-op to become a certified B Corp, Cabot is committed to the planet, our communities, and making the world's finest dairy products. For more information visit cabotcreamery.com

HR Happens provides practical HR leadership, consulting, and training for Vermont businesses and organizations. We partner with small and medium sized employers to simplify HR, strengthen compliance, and build healthy workplaces. Whether serving as your fractional HR department, leading focused projects, or delivering workplace training, we provide hands-on support that meets both immediate needs and long-term goals. Our approach is straightforward and people-centered, helping organizations grow while creating workplaces where employees feel valued and supported.

Your next step matters. UVM Advance gives you the freedom to explore, upskill, get started, or restart – one course at a time.
Whether you’re considering grad school, testing a new career path, building a pathway to an advanced degree, or looking to gain a competitive edge at work, you can build what’s next for you through flexible, credit courses designed for where you are right now. A student success coach is ready to help you navigate which courses are available, keep you on track with applications and deadlines; so, you can build your next skill, career, or degree.

Are you interested in sponsoring this event? If so, please contact Jeremy Gerber at jeremyg@vbsr.org for details.

Questions? Contact mollyr@vbsr.org.