Doing Business in Uncertain Times Webinar

Treasurer, business leaders to host discussion for employers navigating economic uncertainty

Treasurer Mike Pieciak’s Task Force on the Federal Transition, the Association of Vermont Chamber Executives, Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility (VBSR), and Common Good Vermont, will host “Doing Business in Uncertain Times,” a webinar for Vermont employers to discuss how to navigate economic uncertainty caused by federal policy changes.

The discussion will feature state and regional experts, focusing on the impact of tariffs, funding freezes, changes to federal contracts, federal workforce cuts, and changes relating to immigration. The webinar will take place Tuesday, March 11 from 2 to 3:30 PM. All are welcome to register here.

Panelists include: 

• Tristram “Tris” Coffin - Director, Downs Rachlin Martin, former US Attorney
• Jake Holzscheiter - President and CEO, A.N. Deringer
• David Watts - Senior Director of Human Resources, Alice Peck Day Memorial Hospital
• Sarah Mearhoff - Director of Advocacy and Communications, Associated General Contractors of Vermont
• Thomas Feltmate, Director & Senior Economist, TD Bank

The panel will be moderated by Ben Doyle, President of the Preservation Trust of Vermont.

“When employers can’t confidently plan for the future, they’re less likely to invest in growing their businesses. This uncertainty can ripple through the economy, stunting growth and raising costs,” said Treasurer Pieciak. “I’m honored to partner with local and national experts to help Vermont employers get back to business and ensure they can navigate any changes coming from Washington with confidence.”

Amy Spear, President of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce, said, “This collaboration fosters a broad range of perspectives on our evolving economic landscape, representing a proactive step toward improved outcomes statewide. By leveraging our collective expertise and shared resources, we not only help employers navigate uncertainty but also fortify Vermont’s economic foundation. This partnership underscores our steadfast commitment to advocacy and community, ensuring that every business is equipped to thrive amid a dynamic federal landscape.”

“For businesses, navigating a constantly shifting Federal landscape is stalling momentum and productivity, impacting not just Vermont's economy but our communities” said Roxanne Vought, Executive Director of VBSR. “In a moment when so many of us have questions, this webinar will help to isolate concerns and address them efficiently." 

“Vermont nonprofits represent a significant part of our economy, and they have unique challenges navigating the evolving environment,” said Emma Paradis of Common Good Vermont. “This webinar is meant to be a helpful resource to a stretched sector balancing obligations to their missions, staff, and the communities they serve.” 

Treasurer Pieciak convened the Task Force on the Federal Transition to proactively assess the economic impact of new federal action under the Trump Administration. The Task Force recently convened an expert panel to help Vermont employers prepare for a worksite visit from Immigration & Customs Enforcement. The Task Force meets regularly to discuss the Administrations’ policies and their potential impact on Vermonters. Meeting information is on the Task Force website.

A recording of the “Doing Business in Uncertain Times” webinar, along with additional resources, will be available on the Task Force website after the event.