Edwards, Colo. – When the Vail Valley Partnership (VVP) first launched its innovative offshoot of the national CareerWise program in 2017, it was the first such effort in a rural region. “There was no roadmap for resort community implementation,” noted Erik Williams, Community Development Director at VVP. “We were determined to make this work in order to benefit our students and local businesses.”

Fast forward to 2025, and it appears CareerWise Eagle County has more than successfully blazed its own trail. The most recent proof is receiving word that VVP program was selected to receive a Community Catalyst Award at the 2025 Colorado Apprenticeship Rising event on Aug. 7 in Denver.

“We are honored to receive the Community Catalyst Award at this year’s Apprenticeship Rising event,” says Chris Romer, Vail Valley Partnership President & CEO. “This recognition reflects the strength of collaboration across our community. At Vail Valley Partnership, we remain committed to expanding meaningful career pathways and strengthening connections between students, businesses, and local partners. Together, we’re building a stronger future workforce through shared leadership and ongoing partnership.”

CareerWise Eagle County graduated ten local apprentices on June 30, the majority of whom will continue working with their sponsor businesses. VVP’s Workforce Manager Christy Beidel works closely with the apprentices in the multi-year program from start to finish and is especially proud to continue launching these successful students into the local business pipeline. “It’s incredibly rewarding to watch this program grow and see the impact it’s having on students and businesses in our area. I can’t wait to see what’s next!"

Stephanie Klein, CareerWise Senior Director of Business Partnerships, emphasized VVP and CareerWise Eagle County’s commitment to youth apprenticeship and innovative approach to developing Colorado’s future workforce when she notified VVP of the award. “We are honored to celebrate your leadership alongside peers from across business, education, and workforce development.”

There’s always more to be done, however. Apprenticeship Rising isn’t just a celebration, it’s a call to action for Colorado organizations ready to invest in a stronger, smarter, and more integrated workforce.

Learn more about CareerWise Eagle County here.

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About Vail Valley Partnership

Vail Valley Partnership, a 501c(6) nonprofit organization, has been engaged in the community from the early days of Vail, starting in 1964 as the Vail Resort Association. Over time, we have grown to become the regional community development organization dedicated to the community vitality of the Vail Valley. With a membership of 750+ organizations that spans the Vail Valley, and beyond, Vail Valley Partnership is dedicated to ensuring local business success and fostering regional community vitality by offering local business tools and resources, promoting the Vail Valley to destination guests, and initiating economic development efforts. Learn more about Vail Valley Partnership at vailvalleypartnership.com

About CareerWise

CareerWise Eagle County is a program of the Vail Valley Partnership that started in 2017 as one of the first apprenticeship programs of its kind in the US. This local effort breaks down financial barriers, creates highly skilled workers to meet the demands of Colorado mountain resort companies, and provides multiple options for students after successful completion. CareerWise is a nationwide non-profit organization focused on developing a robust apprenticeship program that addresses the needs of businesses and students. By serving as an intermediary working with businesses, educators, and students, we are creating a program that provides all involved with numerous benefits. Students completing the apprenticeship will gain real-world skills and credentials that provide them with options to enter the workplace in a high-paying job or continue their education. In this program, businesses play a large role in building their own skilled and loyal workforce.