In a significant development for Vermont's educational and business landscapes, Champlain College has partnered with nuwave Equity Corporation to launch the Vermont Culture Innovators Project. This initiative, which is set to launch in spring 2025, aims to enhance workplace culture across the state while providing students with practical, real-world experience.
This collaborative effort is supported by a four-semester grant from the Vermont Community Foundation, enabling both students and faculty to work directly with the leadership at nuwave. The project underlines the importance of equipping students with essential skills in effective communication, cultural awareness, and community involvement. Students involved in the project will engage in a range of activities, including conducting research, assisting with B Corp certification processes, and developing educational materials. The design of the programme allows for students to earn ten hours of paid work per week throughout each semester, continuing until spring 2026.
Nuwave, a prominent technology and consulting firm based in Burlington, focuses on optimizing workplace culture through values that emphasize diversity, inclusion, and equity. The company harnesses advanced technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning, to gather internal data through meticulously designed surveys. These tools aim to initiate scalable and cost-effective cultural transformations that not only enhance productivity but also improve the social safety and inclusiveness within workplaces.
Emiliano Void, the Founder and CEO of nuwave Equity Corporation, remarked on the partnership’s potential: “Students bring energy, curiosity, and innovative thinking to every project they touch, which is what makes this partnership with Champlain College so inspiring. This program unites the creativity of Champlain’s students, the expertise of its faculty, and the strength of local resources to improve workplace culture, support the adoption of digital tools, and enhance employee performance across Vermont.”
This initiative exemplifies Champlain College's dedication to experiential education, effectively linking students with industry partners to address challenges related to workplace culture and inclusivity. Through direct involvement in real-world projects, students gain vital skills that prepare them to become transformative leaders capable of making meaningful contributions to the business community in Vermont.
Meg Jones, Assistant Professor at Champlain College’s School of Social Innovation, commented on the impact of the collaboration, stating, “This partnership is a powerful example of how education and industry can come together to address existing societal needs. Through the Vermont Culture Innovators Program, students are learning and leading by shifting culture in Vermont businesses and building social impact skills and confidence to thrive in their future careers.”
Champlain College, founded in 1878 and located in Burlington, Vermont, is recognised for its innovative approach to career-focused education. The College's unique Upside-Down Curriculum equips students with the skills necessary to be work-ready while also contributing positively to society.
Nuwave, recognised as an award-winning business intelligence technology company, focuses on workforce optimization through cultural assessments. The company combines an interdisciplinary team of experts with emerging technologies to analyse cultural strengths and weaknesses in organisations. This approach allows for tailored strategies that drive change at all organisational levels, illustrating the correlation between culture and business performance.
Source: Noah Wire Services