CHELSEA Lewis
Favorite Part of Job? I feel so lucky to get to work with some of the best food, farm and forest businesses in the country. The passion that they have for making a positive impact on their 
communities and Vermont's working landscape is inspiring. It is incredibly rewarding to connect these businesses with the resources they 
need to grow and thrive.
Most Inspiring Mentor: It has been an honor to work with Jolinda LaClair for nearly six years. She has dedicated her career to public service, and is adept at making government work effectively for its citizens and businesses. She takes seriously her role as supervisor, and has imparted incredible knowledge and leadership skills that I will carry with me.
Favorite Vermont Escape: I spend lots of time at the Waterbury Reservoir - swimming and boating in the summer, skiing in the winter, and dog walks the rest of the year.
Favorite Downtime Activity: Spending time in my garden with my 1-year-old son.
Where do you see yourself professionally in ten years? Whether it be in the public or private sector, I see myself continuing to work with Vermont food businesses to build supply chain relationships and reach new markets.
Career Highlights: When I first started at the Agency of Agriculture I jumped into some exciting value chain coordination work with Vermont's meat industry. As the Chair of the Meat Processing Task Force, I worked closely with producers and processors to understand pinch points and capitalize on partnership opportunities. It was incredibly rewarding to make new connections that led to innovation and increased processing capacity in the state.
Community Involvement: My husband, Nate, and I moved to Waterbury over five years ago and love being a part of such a vibrant community. I have served on the board of Revitalizing Waterbury, which has been critical to the town's robust post-Irene recovery. As the owners of Moonlight Farm, Nate and I have enjoyed being a part of the Waterbury Farmers' Market, and welcoming people to the farm for pick your own.
Recipient of 2014 Vermont Public Service Recognition award, which acknowledges outstanding state employees for demonstrating commitment, talent and leadership in public service.