Brit McKenna
36 | Co-owner, Counselor and Evaluator, Vermont Vocational Services
Residence: Addison
Career highlight you are most proud of.
Each time I discontinue working with a client because they’ve achieved their vocational goal feels like the highlight of my career. My clients show such resilience and strength, and their ability to pivot and redirect is inspiring. 
The greatest joy of my career has been the privilege of owning and building a business the last two years while surrounded by brilliant and passionate women. The greatest feeling has been the collaborative process of teaching, and learning from, my counseling students at the University of Vermont, where I am an adjunct professor.
Community involvement.
A community I feel especially lucky to be a part of is Vermont adaptive athletes. The heart, hustle, and grit of athletes, the energy of race days, and the practice of training with others is something I feel so privileged to still be connected to in my late 30s. 
Another huge part of my life is the quaint little two-mile dirt road I live on in Addison County, where the neighbors have all become a family, sharing meals, tools, accomplishments and hardships, along with responsibilities for pets, kiddos, pollinators and the environment.
Motivation for living and working in Vermont.
Vermont is full of passionate, innovative and rugged people dedicated to bettering their communities and the world. Our communities are built of people that are grounded in their roots and traditions, while remaining open-minded to the perspective of others. There’s no place where the people, landscape and culture feel like home to me as much as Vermont.
Most inspiring mentors.
I am in awe of how Donna Curtin empowers the people around her, and loves and shows up for her family while balancing a demanding career. I’m elated that she is now my business partner. Addison County Vermont is full of supportive and encouraging female business owners, and I have been especially motivated and supported by Sarah Audet, Caroline Corrente and Katie Flagg.
Best career advice you have received.
The only thing certain is change.
Favorite Vermont escape.
I am happiest playing outside anywhere in Vermont with the people that I love, but Mount Abe and Mount Pisgah are my favorites.
Favorite Vermont season.
I am giddy over whatever season Vermont is currently in. It’s all magic.
Cause you would support if you had unlimited access to funds.
I would ensure that trails were accessible to everybody, and I would subsidize the cost of adaptive equipment. A run, bike, ski or hike is about so much more than moving our bodies. Playing in the dirt, fresh air and the opportunity to gain perspective, push limits and build confidence really should be accessible to everyone.
Career goals you would like to accomplish in the next five to 10 years.
Continuing to normalize conversation around injury and disability, and the tremendous value of employment. I am passionate about promoting community and inclusivity, and advocating for equal opportunities in employment and recreation.
