Master a proven framework for building and sustaining your energy services business! With Tools of the Trade, you’ll gain new insights into recruiting and retaining your workforce, improving the financial viability of your business, understanding the needs of your customers and capitalizing on Vermonter’s growing interest in clean energy and energy-efficiency oriented solutions. Expand your capacity to assist everyday Vermonters save money, improve the comfort of their home and reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.
Tools of the Trade is an in-person, 9-month business training program designed to support the needs of weatherization contractors to improve your executive business skills, enhance core operations, expand your workforce and improve your work-life balance.
Tools of the Trade – Business Fundamentals for Energy Pros includes:
1. Monthly half-day, in-person, interactive and engaging learning sessions on a particular topic, including 1:1 individualized coaching time so that you spend time working on your business each month
2. Peer learning and sharing that can lead to lasting relationships with others in your field
3. One-on-one coaching time outside of monthly learning sessions, tailored to your interests and needs
4. Access to industry adjacent professionals such as an employment attorney and workforce training providers
Application Closes: September 12, 2025
Notification of Businesses Selected to Participate: September 26, 2025
Program Start Date: October 20, 2025
Program End Date: June 2026
Participation Cost: $1,000; this program and its delivery is valued at $7,000 per company.
Contact for questions about the program: Kurt Ericksen, kurt@vsjf.org
Additional Details:
Our Business Coaches:
You’ll have access to a team of seasoned business professionals with a range of subject matter expertise, all of whom have owned, led, or managed entrepreneurial companies in Vermont for decades. In addition to interactive in-session presentations, there will be ample time for 1:1 coaching to help you dial in on the specific needs of your business.
Participant Pledge:
“An excellent collection of industry professionals offering their time and expertise on multiple business topics. It isn't often that you have access to so many successful business minds that can share insights on accounting, mission, HR, advertising and sales. Well worth the price for the program.” - Ben Service, Roots Builders, Tools of the Trade 1.0 Participant
“This program was a fantastic jump forward for me as a business owner - I wish it had existed ten years ago!” - David Bailey, Black Cat Builders, Tools of the Trade 1.0 Participant
“I was at a place prior to the program of wanting to close my doors and become a one-person builder operation. The skills and confidence I gained have enabled me to continue working on improving my employer / employee relationships and create more work opportunities.” - Eric Solsaa, Solsaa Building and Energy Solutions, Tools of the Trade 1.0 Participant
Tools of the Trade is made possible through funding from Efficiency Vermont, Vermont Gas Systems and Burlington Electric Department.