Employees of the Vail Valley Partnership recently attended the annual Western Association of Chamber Executives (W.A.C.E.) conference held in Las Vegas. VVP Director of Programs, Anna Robinson, was surprised and thrilled to accept the conference award for Outstanding Program on behalf of VVP’s Vail Valley Works.

“We are honored to be recognized as an Outstanding Program Award recipient by W.A.C.E,” said Robinson. “There are so many chambers doing amazing work in their communities. It’s very special to be chosen from among the many worthy nominees.”

Vail Valley Works (VVW) was created specifically to address the unique business climate in Eagle County. VVW strengthens the current and future local workforce through training, development, and support opportunities close to home.

Robinson emphasized, “The success of Vail Valley Works is directly related to the collaborative nature of Eagle County. When our local leaders can be trained in their own community, rather than traveling – often across the country – for educational opportunities, everyone here benefits.”

VVW includes innovative programming and partnerships, like Community Leadership Academy, NEXT Vail Valley, Management Essentials, and skills-based trainings, among others. The innovative CareerWise Apprenticeship program also falls under the Vail Valley Works umbrella, growing and supporting local talent for local business.

VVP President and CEO Chris Romer noted, “Vail Valley Works equips local professionals with vital skills through leadership training, business acumen, and community engagement.” Romer also acknowledged Eagle County’s unique economic landscape. “By addressing the specific needs of Eagle County’s workforce, the program creates a tailored curriculum that prepares participants to succeed.”

The values of the Vail Valley Works program include collaboration, service, integrity, innovation, and curiosity. This aligns with the VVP’s broader mission to lead collaboration, which goes beyond foundational job training and leadership opportunities. VVW strives to provide and promote diversity, equity, and inclusion and mental wellness initiatives in its programs.