2020 marks our 4th Annual Talent of the Year Awards! ETS’ Talent of the Year Awards honor individuals, throughout Professional, Industrial, and Administrative/Office divisions, who are outstanding performers and exemplify the promise of staffing excellency.

2020 Vermont Winners Include:

  • Industrial/Skilled Trades Division – Julia Barrett
  • Professional Division – Joel Cross
  • Administrative/Office Division – Debra Davis

Talent of the Year Industrial/Skilled Trades Division Award Winner: Julia Barrett, Production Technician, TwinCraft Skincare

Since being placed by ETS as a Production Operator at TwinCraft Skincare, Julia has quickly proven her motivation and dedication. Not just garnering extra responsibilities, but earning the respect and trust of the team. She chose to partner with ETS based on a friend’s recommendation. “I’m so happy my friend brought ETS into my life because of what they have done for me – getting me one of the best jobs ever.” Julia stated. Her previous experience in hospitality combined with her adaptability, and go-getter attitude, easily poised her for a career shift into manufacturing. Julia continued, “I had never stepped foot in a manufacturing facility before, but I love this career. I’m active everyday and always learning. The further I go, the more I learn, the more I enjoy it!”

Julia’s unique skills and drive to succeed continue to launch her career. When asked what she enjoys most about working in this new field Julia stated, “Quick growth! I moved up two positions higher in less than two months. I started off as a Production Worker, and next thing you know, I’m training to be a Process Technician with a clear path to become a Line Lead. I love it, and it’s pretty cool. If someone calls out I can have their back – I like that they can have somebody to rely on.

Talent of the Year Professional Division Award Winner: Joel Cross, Outside Sales Representative, Lakeside Container Corporation

No stranger to customer service, Joel Cross has an accomplished career hitting goals and building relationships. When Lakeside Container reached out to us searching for an experienced Sales Representative with a drive to succeed and a personality to match, our team knew Joel was the perfect fit. “ETS approached me with the right opportunity, at the right company, at the right time.” Stated Joel. In his new role as an Outside Sales Representative, Joel has found quick success. His team player mentality, combined with his ability to continuously learn and update his knowledge of products, has made him a standout employee.

“I love what I’m doing – from the role itself, to the flexibility involved, to the company as a whole.” Joel continued, “This move was a smart decision that aligned nicely with my professional and personal goals, and for that I’m very thankful for ETS.”

Talent of the Year Administrative/Office Division Award Winner: Debra Davis, HR Manager, Omni Medical Systems

When Debra decided it was time to pivot away from her role in customer service, she knew she had many transferable skills that would provide a solid base to a career in any industry. Her previous work experience, combined with her friendly and approachable personality, easily poised her for a career shift into Human Resources. “I started as an Executive Assistant at Omni Medical Systems, and now I’m the HR Manager. This role has been a great experience so far – the things I’ve learned, and the different mixture of people I’ve met – it’s been rewarding all the way around. Partnering with ETS for this opportunity was amazing.” Stated Debra.

As the company enjoys rapid growth, Debra is more excited than ever for the future. “The most rewarding part for me is the growth. When I started, we had one facility, now we’re at five. The momentum is not stopping.” Stated Debra. Her ability to easily adapt and reshape her skills to the manufacturing industry has allowed the facility to focus on retention, simplify processes, and grow production. For those skeptical about partnering with a staffing agency, Debra says, “Partnering with ETS in temporary or contract-to-hire roles gives you the opportunity to know whether or not an opportunity is right for you in the long-term. It allowed me to get my feet in the door to actually see the things I wanted to pursue in the future.” 

ETS congratulates all of the Talent of the Year Award winners for being selected to represent the extraordinary talent, dedication and contributions of employees throughout the Champlain Valley. Their inspirational stories highlight the opportunities that staffing employment provides, as well as the diversity of the individuals employed in every occupation and sector of our economy.