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Chambers of Commerce across the country are increasingly playing a role in workforce development, adapting to address the needs of businesses and job seekers alike. At Vail Valley Partnership (VVP), we have long been engaged in workforce development and more recently recognized the pressing need for a structured workforce development initiative tailored to our local community.
That’s how Vail Valley Works was born. Vail Valley Works is a program designed to equip professionals at all stages of their careers with the skills, connections, and leadership capabilities necessary to thrive in Eagle County (CO). Eagle County, home to Vail and Beaver Creek ski resorts, presents a unique set of workforce challenges. Like many rural resort-based economies, we contend with high living costs, a seasonal labor force, and an ongoing demand for skilled professionals across various industries. Employers across sectors—hospitality, healthcare, construction, and more—struggle to attract and retain qualified workers.
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 At the Greater Arvada Chamber, we are committed to serving as a powerful voice in the region when it comes to policy and regulation impacting businesses. We also firmly believe that this work, from elected official engagement to policy testifying and education, should be accessible for everyone in our business community, not a select few decision-makers. That’s why we have recently reframed our policy efforts as an Advocacy Network.
The Chamber’s Advocacy Network currently counts over 130 business leaders who have signed up to engage in this critical function of our organization and community. Through strategic initiatives, impactful programs, and a commitment to education and advocacy, the network has made significant strides in shaping an informed, business-friendly legislative landscape.  W.A.C.E. introduced the Outstanding Program Awards as a way to “practice what we preach” and recognize the innovative and impactful programs created by chambers of commerce. These awards honor outstanding examples of chamber performance in our core competency areas, celebrating chambers that serve as catalysts for business growth, conveners of thought leaders, and champions for thriving communities.
Leadership in the chamber industry is about more than just guiding an organization—it’s about inspiring progress, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact on the communities we serve. At this year’s W.A.C.E. Annual Conference, we proudly recognized individuals who embody these qualities and more. These award winners are the visionaries, changemakers, and trailblazers who set the standard for excellence, leading with curiosity, courage, and commitment. Congratulations to the following 2025 individual award recipients:
W.A.C.E. is proud to recognize the outstanding achievements of chamber professionals who have set the standard for excellence in communications. This year’s award winners have demonstrated exceptional creativity, innovation, and impact in key categories, including email newsletters, video, and website development. Their efforts not only enhance member engagement and strengthen the voice of chambers across the region but also serve as great examples for other chambers to follow when communicating with their members and communities.
Kami Welch, Board Chair, W.A.C.E. & President/CEO, Greater Arvada (CO) Chamber  Chamber work is challenging and rewarding, testing our resolve while offering unique growth opportunities. As a seasoned Chamber leader, I've experienced the highs and lows of this journey, and I know many of you share similar experiences. Our work requires commitment, passion, patience, and innovation. In today's complex landscape of national, state, and local tensions, we must navigate carefully to avoid burnout while driving positive change for our communities.
Recent data from the ACCE Harris Poll underscores the importance of our role: 81% of U.S. adults view their local chamber as a trusted resource and partner for businesses, while 90% believe Chambers significantly influence local economic growth. These figures reflect the responsibility and trust placed in us, highlighting our unique position to bring together diverse stakeholders and address pressing issues. This role aligns with Mahatma Gandhi's philosophy, "Be the change you wish to see in the world," which encapsulates our mission as Chambers. We don't simply react; we proactively lead, fostering positive change in our communities. As Chamber leaders, this data and philosophy serve as powerful reminders of our potential for impact, driving us to continually strive for excellence in serving our communities. The W.A.C.E. Foundation is committed to supporting our members by providing valuable scholarships for the Annual Conference and the W.A.C.E. Academy. To continue this important work, we need your help – and it’s easier than you might think!
One of the best ways to contribute is by donating an auction item for the Awards Dinner in February. Whether it’s a unique experience, a weekend getaway, or a curated local package, your donation can highlight the distinct character, thriving economy, and dynamic business community of your Chamber to a large and engaged audience. The W.A.C.E. Foundation Board is pleased to announce that the following chamber professionals will receive scholarships in the amount of $575 each to assist with their registration for the 2025 W.A.C.E. Conference in Henderson, NV on February 4-7, 2025.
Katie Stice, IOM, Rancho Mirage Chamber of Commerce  Ready to supercharge your chamber's impact?
Join us for a mind-blowing conference that will equip you with the latest insights, cutting-edge strategies, and powerful connections to drive your organization to new heights. Why You Can't Miss It:
The W.A.C.E. Nominating Committee convened over the past few months and is submitting the following slate of members for service as officers and members of the Board of Directors of the association. All members listed below have been contacted and have agreed to serve.
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May 2025
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