Q&A with Members of Burlington Young Professionals
Burlington, Vermont strikes a rare balance. It’s big enough to build a meaningful career, yet small enough to run into your new best friend at the co-op. Access to Lake Champlain, world-class skiing, an exciting food scene and a deeply connected community are just some reasons the greater Burlington area is becoming a top choice for young professionals.
In fact, young adults have made up nearly half of Vermont’s new residents in recent years. Why? For a few very Vermont-y reasons:
-
It’s a fun place to live with a strong culture of work-life balance
-
Plenty of jobs in a diversity of areas, remote work co-working spaces, and a strong entrepreneurial spirit
-
An eclectic social scene with music, art, and food at its core
Hello! Burlington Young Professionals
Moving to a new place is a big leap, but the Burlington Young Professionals (BYP) group makes the landing softer. As part of the Lake Champlain Chamber, BYP helps locals in their 20s, 30s, and 40s connect socially and professionally through networking events, learning opportunities, and leadership programs.
BYP Programs Include:
-
Monthly Meet-Ups – From casual networking at local restaurants and breweries, to adventurous ones including ski trips, rock climbing sessions and sports games
-
BYP Learns – Focused events on topics like professional development, AI tools and financial wellness
-
BYP Reads – Monthly leadership book club to read and discuss books that matter
-
Advisory Board – Sharpen leadership skills while shaping the future of BYP
Don’t be shy! Check out BYP’s event calendar here to learn more about upcoming activities.
Meet Some of Burlington’s Brightest Young Professionals
What’s it really like to live and work in Burlington? What are top reasons to move to Burlington as a young professional? We caught up with Mary, Emily and Phil, three BYP Advisory Board Members to get the scoop.
Left: Mary Capparuccini, Certified Financial Planner, at Hadley Financial Group & New York Life; Middle: Emily Hayes, Group Sales Manager at Courtyard Burlington Harbor; Right: Phil Sheridan, financial advisor at Merrill Lynch
Q: Why did you move to Burlington?
Mary Capparuccini: I moved from D.C. to Middlebury first, but Burlington had more people my age and more career opportunities. Burlington was a natural next step.
Emily Hayes: I moved to Vermont in 2022 after completing a cross country road trip. I was really struck by the focus on supporting local businesses and community.
Phil Sheridan: Family! I was living in Boston and wanted to be near my nieces and watch them grow up. We love swimming, sports, music, and being outdoors together so Burlington is definitely the perfect place for us.
Q: What’s it like to build a career here?
Mary: I started a new career and a business here. Thankfully, the networking scene is strong. Burlington has a small town feel, even though it’s Vermont’s biggest city, so reputation and word of mouth carry a lot of weight, which works in your favor if you’re genuine and show up.
Emily: Breaking into a new place is always a challenge, but Burlington’s compassion and openness make it easier. There’s real room for growth and opportunity.
Phil: I began my career outside of Boston so when I moved to Vermont, I learned how small of a city Burlington really is. Offering great client service is key. Finding your community here is easy, and then from there your career possibilities can be endless.
Q: How has BYP helped you?
Mary: BYP was a safe space to network early on. It felt welcoming and real. Plus, I think younger professionals are often more eager to form real connections—both personal and professional.
Emily: BYP has been instrumental. It boosted my professional confidence, and connected me with a broad, supportive network.
Phil: It gets you out there. Instead of having coffee at your desk at 8am, you can be in a room of 30-40 young people talking, laughing, and learning something you use in your big meeting later.
Q: What is BYP’s best benefit?
Mary: The social side. Trying new things, discovering hidden gems around town and making new friends.
Emily: The community. It’s honestly more than just networking events – it’s a great, supportive group of folks.
Phil: The people! The regulars are friendly and inclusive, and you never know who you’ll meet next.
Q: What is your favorite BYP program or event?
Mary: I am super curious by nature so I love the behind-the-scenes tours of local businesses like OnLogic or Saba Marine. The events always have great food and conversations too.
Emily: My favorite event was at Petra Cliffs this winter. It was different from standard networking events, and people who were there still talk about how much fun it was.
Phil: Events that get me out of my routine, like rock climbing for the first time, Echo aquarium, hearing an interesting speaker, or touring an awesome local business, all the while learning and making connections.
Q: What is your advice for newcomers?
Mary: Vermonters are some of the nicest people you’ll meet, but it can take a little time to break into social circles. Find something you love—BYP, pickleball, volunteering—and just show up.
Emily: Do it! Lovely people, excellent food and culture. It’s just absolutely gorgeous all year round. Nearby towns like Bristol, Vergennes, and Shelburne make this area feel even more special.
Phil: Get out there! There are events happening almost every day of the week. The more events you attend the more people you meet and those people will mention other events that might interest you and it keeps snowballing.
Q: What’s the most challenging part about living or working here?
Mary: The cost of living is definitely up there, so being financially prepared is important. The good news is that opportunities are out there—you just have to look. Once I started putting myself out there and asking questions, doors started opening.
Emily: I moved to Vermont from Philadelphia so it took a while to get used to things being generally smaller and slower. But now, I can’t really imagine being anywhere else. It’s a close-knit community where everyone knows everyone,which felt intimidating at first. But BYP helped me find my footing.
Phil: Winters are long, but staying active helps. I snowboard and play drums in a few bands. For career growth, it’s a small population so I adapt by connecting with clients in front of me and making sure I deliver the best experience and service.
Q: How would you describe opportunities for young professionals here?
Mary: Vermont has an aging population, so there’s a real need for fresh talent across industries. Plus, there are tons of amazing groups—like the Chamber, Leadership Champlain, BYP, BNI, Vermont Womenpreneurs, WBON—that offer support, mentorship, and visibility. You don’t have to go it alone.
Emily: There are lots of opportunities, you just have to find them! There are so many wonderful Vermont-based companies that are looking to expand their teams. It is a great place to live, develop, and grow.
Phil: I see a large older population who are getting ready for retirement or just retired, creating a huge amount of opportunity for young professionals here in town. Vermont needs a fresh, young population to improve, evolve, and develop on what they've started.
Q: Career advice for young professionals in Burlington?
Mary: Never underestimate networking. You’re always just one or two connections away from your next big step.
Emily: Just get out there and meet people! The young professional community is so strong and supportive. Getting involved in the Burlington area is a great way to make it home. And try all the maple creemees you can.
Phil: Stay active professionally, attend the events around town, have fun, and be social. Burlington is a great place to enjoy life in and out of the office.
Ready to connect with other young professionals?
If you’re a young professional considering a move, or already here, check out BYPVT.org to learn more, see upcoming events, and get involved.
Looking to move to Burlington, VT? Start the journey here.