Beta Technologies Hires 420 in 2026, Squeezing Vermont Aviation Shops
Updated
Updated · VTDigger · Jun 28
Beta Technologies Hires 420 in 2026, Squeezing Vermont Aviation Shops
1 articles · Updated · VTDigger · Jun 28
Summary
Beta Technologies added 420 workers from January through June, extending a hiring surge that smaller Vermont aviation businesses say is draining an already thin technician pool.
Green Mountain Avionics says its staff has fallen 50% since Beta opened its South Burlington plant in 2023, while J&M Avionics has shrunk from 21 employees to two and is shifting most operations to North Carolina.
Beta’s pull is reinforced by pay of $55,000 to $185,000, free lunches, flight lessons and an on-site health clinic; CEO Kyle Clark said in late 2025 the company planned 1,000 more hires over 18 months.
State officials and Beta argue the squeeze is temporary, noting 85% of this year’s hires are Vermonters and citing partnerships with technical schools and Vermont State University to expand the workforce.
The dispute highlights a broader Vermont manufacturing shortage: jobs are down nearly 8% over 10 years, training programs are turning away applicants, and small operators say Beta’s growth is reshaping the local business landscape.