E-Newsletter
An Electronic Publication of the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce
Inside this edition, you’ll discover the latest Chamber initiatives and success stories from across our region. From economic development projects and upcoming networking events to policy updates and workforce training opportunities, we’re keeping you connected to what matters most for your business and North Central Massachusetts.
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is here to help – with trusted resources, a strong business network, and a support system to keep your business and the region moving forward
Dear Chamber Members,
On Saturday, February 1, 2025, the Trump administration announced executive orders resulting in tariffs of 25% on imports to the U.S. from Canada and Mexico, 10% on Canadian energy products, and 10% on goods from China, effective February 4, 2025. Following this announcement, Canada announced intentions to place new tariffs of 25% on U.S. goods imported into Canada, also scheduled to be effective February 4, 2025. On Monday, February 3, 2025, it was announced that the new tariffs against Mexico would be paused for one month
As news of the executive orders continue to make headlines, I wanted to reach out to let you know the Chamber is monitoring the situation while also working to understand how the tariffs may impact our regional economy and many of our members’ operations.
While we understand the Trump administration’s focus on addressing critical issues, such as border security and the fentanyl crisis, we have heard from our member manufacturers over the past few days about how these executive orders may affect their business.
From supply chains to business operations, and the potential increase in the cost of goods for consumers, we share their concerns about the potential economic impact these executive orders will have on our local businesses and communities.
In the days ahead, the Chamber will continue to closely monitor this situation and actively gather feedback from members as your perspective is crucial to helping us advocate, communicate and respond. We encourage you to share your feedback as it will help us better understand your business’ needs. For your convenience, you can provide your thoughts online here or contact me directly by phone at 978.353.7600, ext. 225, or via email.
As this situation is ever-changing, we are in regular communication with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, our congressional delegation, and other business organizations to ensure we have the most current information as it becomes available.
Sincerely,
Roy M. Nascimento, CCE, IOM
President and CEO
Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me | Business Networking | Massachusetts Business | Business Resources | Tariffs
Condon only awardee from across Massachusetts on 2024 list
The North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce that Travis Condon, public affairs manager for the Chamber, has been named to the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executive (ACCE) 2024 Forty Under 40 list. He is the only awardee from Massachusetts on the 2024 list.
The list, which recognizes emerging leaders shaping the chamber of commerce industry across the country, was announced in December. This annual recognition program showcases 40 of the industry’s top emerging leaders who have demonstrated success in their careers and made significant contributions to the communities they serve. The list includes CEOs and staff professionals from a wide variety of roles and chamber sizes who are honored for their creativity, dedication and commitment to identifying innovative solutions to help shape the future of the chamber profession.
“These remarkable leaders exemplify the talent and commitment that drive meaningful change,” said ACCE President & CEO Sheree Anne Kelly. “Their inspiring passion to advance their communities and promote innovation in the chamber profession shape a promising future for those they impact.”
As Public Affairs Manager, Condon spearheads the Chamber’s government affairs programs, managing legislative and municipal outreach across 27 cities and towns, while coordinating strategic communications and events. He has helped secure grant funding for key chamber priorities and hosts “Inside North Central Massachusetts,” a weekly podcast featuring conversations with regional leaders that has become a valuable resource for members and the community. Beyond his work with the Chamber, his leadership extends to board service with North Star Family Services, and volunteering as emcee for a number of community events, including the City of Fitchburg’s annual Veterans Day and Memorial Day ceremonies, and the popular Fourth of July parade.
“Travis brings dedication and initiative to everything he does,” said Roy Nascimento, CCE, IOM, president & CEO, North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce. “His ability to forge meaningful connections across our communities while advancing important regional priorities has significantly strengthened our mission. He exemplifies the innovative leadership that chambers need in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.”
ACCE has over 1,600 chambers of commerce and related business and economic development organizations as members, representing more than 9,000 professionals in the industry.
Eligible chamber professionals must be nominated by their chamber’s president/CEO, direct supervisor or board chair. Candidates must demonstrate meaningful involvement in the advancement of their community and proven professional success within their chamber.
The full 2024 Forty Under 40 list was announced publicly in Chamber Executive, ACCE’s digital magazine in December. View all the honorees online at https://magazine.acce.org/.
North Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me | Business Networking | Massachusetts Business | Business Resources
Business owners and professionals are invited to discover the power of Chamber membership at the North Central Massachusetts Chamber of Commerce’s new member orientation and morning mixer. The event will be held on Wednesday, January 29, 2025, from 8:30-10:00 a.m. at the Chamber’s main office, 860 South Street, Fitchburg, MA 01420.
Attendees will gain insider access to the Chamber’s comprehensive suite of business-building resources, including strategic networking opportunities, influential government affairs programs, professional development seminars and tools, cost-effective advertising platforms, health insurance options and other specialized support. The orientation is designed for new members, but is equally valuable for current members who want to get a refresher on their membership, or prospective members exploring Chamber opportunities. The orientation will conclude with a special morning mixer for new members to connect and engage with other business and community leaders. Coffee and a light continental breakfast will be provided.
“Esta es una gran oportunidad para miembros y no miembros de aprender sobre la naturaleza dinámica de la Cámara de Comercio del Norte Central de Massachusetts”, dijo Roy Nascimento, presidente y director ejecutivo. “Los asistentes aprenderán sobre el importante trabajo que realizamos para hacer avanzar la región, así como los tremendos recursos que ofrecemos para empresas de todos los tamaños e industrias”.”
Secure your spot at this complimentary member orientation and mixer by registering online at www.northcentralmass.com. Space is limited. For additional information, contact the Chamber at 978.353.7600 ext. 235.
Can’t make the event? Schedule a personalized Chamber introduction with Patrick O’Hara, Manager of Membership Recruitment & Engagement, at 978.353.7600 ext. 235 or to discover how Chamber membership can benefit your business.
Registrarse ahoraNorth Central Massachusetts | Central Massachusetts | Massachusetts | Chamber of Commerce | North Central Massachusetts Chamber | Chamber of Commerce Membership | Chamber of Commerce Member Benefits | Chamber of Commerce near me | Business Networking | Massachusetts Business | Business Resources
Event to kick-off the 2025 Relay for Life of Greater Gardner with the Fitchburg community
El Relay for Life of Greater Gardner, one of the largest cancer fighting fundraising events in New England, will be hosting Light the Town Purple, an event to raise awareness about the Relay for Life and to celebrate the lives of those who have been touched by cancer in the community. In addition to music and local organizations providing information for those affected by cancer, the event will also include inspirational stories from cancer survivors and caregivers, as well as the ceremonial lighting of the Upper Common Gazebo in purple to signify unity, hope and survival.
Upper Common Gazebo, Fitchburg (the intersection of Main Street, Mechanic Street and Prospect Street near the Rollstone Boulder)
Wednesday, May 7, 2025, 5:00 p.m.
Limari Rivera, captain, Team Rosa’s Warriors, and leadership member, Relay for Life of Greater Gardner
Luisa Fernandez, family and community engagement coordinator, Fitchburg Public Schools
Captain Jeffrey J. Howe, Fitchburg Police Department
Cancer survivors, their caregivers, and families
Relay for Life of Greater Gardner participants and supporters
Local organizations that support cancer patients, survivors, and their families
About the Relay for Life
In May 1985, Dr. Gordon “Gordy” Klatt walked and ran for 24 hours around a track in Tacoma, Washington, raising money to help the American Cancer Society with the nation’s biggest health concern: cancer. Friends, family, and patients watched and supported him as we walked and ran more than 83.6 miles and raised $27,000 through pledges to help save lives from cancer. Since then, the event has raised $3.6 billion across all Relay for Life events. In its 32nd year, the Relay for Life of Greater Gardner has raised approximately $15 million. To learn more about the Relay for Life of Greater Gardner, visit the event website y Facebook.

All proceeds will benefit Clear Path for Veterans New England Veterans. The funds raised will go towards essential services for Veterans and their families, such as housing, wellness events and activities, food and clothing, and service dog training programs.
Más informaciónCare Central VNA & Hospice, Inc., a non-profit provider of skilled home care, palliative care, hospice end of life care in ninety-eight towns and cities across five counties in Massachusetts, is pleased to announce the appointment of Vera T. Tice, MSECE as Chair of the Board of Directors, from Vice Chair, effective April 9, 2025
Tice brings extensive experience in corporate governance, digital and cybersecurity risk, corporate strategy and growth, technology and innovation, R&D product/service development, and M&A expertise to her board and advisory work. Prior to this appointment, she served in board chair and committee leadership roles on several corporate and large non-profit boards. Currently, Tice is an advisor to businesses and global and national organizations investing in and commercializing health care innovation. Previously holding senior executive positions in businesses and non-profits creating the future of healthcare, Tice mobilized innovation, developing and delivering digital health, healthcare informatics, patient monitoring, and network security products and services from concept to market.
“I am honored to welcome Vera Tice as the new Chair of the Board. Her vision, integrity, and dedication to our mission inspires confidence and optimism as we look to the future” states Holly Chaffee, MSN, BSN, RN, President & CEO of Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc.
Vera succeeds Norman Sczepanski, who served on the Board of Directors for over 40 years and as Chair of the Board since 2020. Sczepanski played a key role in advancing Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc.’s strategic planning and community partnerships.
Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc. provides compassionate care and trusted support throughout a variety of services to ensure comfort, dignity and expert care at every stage of life. For more information about Care Central VNA & Hospice, Inc. and its services, please visit the website (carecentralvnahospice.org ) or contact: Kristin Mattson, PT, Chief Development & Clinical Care Transitions Officer, 508-943-0612, .
When the workday ends and the lights go down, Custom Cleaning Service of Peabody, Inc. gets to work. “We operate as our clients’ silent partner after business hours,” says Adam Paicos, of Templeton, who now serves as Director of Operations and oversees the company’s expansion into North Central MA. “We are not often seen, but we ensure facilities are clean, secure, and ready for business each day while serving as the eyes and ears for our clients when they are not on site.”
Discover local business stories through our Inside North Central Massachusetts Podcast series. Listen as Chamber members share their journeys, insights, and contributions to our thriving regional business community.
Looking for your next opportunity? Explore current job openings from employers across North Central Massachusetts on our Jobs Board. Whether you’re starting a new career or making a change, you’ll find a variety of local positions available to help you take the next step.
CapEx Facility Services & Construction · Leominster, MA
TaraVista Behavioral Health Center · Harvard, MA
DRS Power Technology, Inc. · Fitchburg, MA
AIS · Leominster, MA