WINOOSKI, Vt. (WCAX) – Looking for work can be stressful and even scary when unemployment hits unexpectedly, but one nonprofit is here to help.

Hunting for jobs or updating your resume after a sudden career change can feel like one big question mark.

One Vermont support system helps locals find more answers than they expect.

Just weeks before Christmas a few years ago, Maix Dwyer was furloughed from their tech job.

“AI had just hit the common market more or less, so every designer I knew was losing their job. Every web developer I knew was turning to AI to make things instead of hiring project developers,” said Dwyer.

With another tech job out of reach, Dwyer struggled to pivot.

“I was definitely stressed out – where do we go from here? Is tech even accessible anymore?” they asked.

Vermont’s unemployment rate hit 2.4% in December, indicating a tight labor market, but certain career fields are taking a hit.

Some UVM Health Network employees are expected to lose their jobs due to cuts and staff at Tetra Tech and World Learning are on the chopping block after federal cuts to USAID.

Winooski nonprofit Vermont Works for Women is ready to help. They work with women and gender-expansive Vermonters to navigate and expand their job searches.

“It’s a myth that you have to have to pick a career and stick with it for your whole life. I look at it as a journey,” said Paige Ruffner of VTWW.

Ruffner says many clients underestimate their qualifications. She reviews their resumes, showing them how skills can transfer to career fields they never considered.

“I think they get a little surprised themselves about how much they really do know and really can do,” she said.

With VTWW’s help, Dwyer got back on their feet. Now, they work in theater and run a dog care business.

And they still turn to VTWW in times of need.

“I think they play a huge part in just saving you from yourself in those moments of doubt,” said Dwyer.

If you’re on the job hunt, Ruffner says to think broadly and reach out to a local career coach for guidance.

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