VTCRC VIP Media Day Brings Global Attention to the NRV

BLACKSBURG, VA – The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) hosted over 20 local, regional, and global media to the park for VIP Media Day last month. The exclusive event focused on recruitment opportunities for the VTCRC and highlighted the park and it’s current tenants in the media.

“VIP Media Day is the first time we have invited media to the research park,” said Joe Meredith, Ph.D., president and CEO of the VTCRC. “I am excited to showcase the tenant companies’ accomplishments and global impact.”

Michael Fleming, CEO of Torc Robotics and Del. Chris Hurst by Jon Fleming

Del. Chris Hurst, U.S. Rep. Morgan Griffith, and Kelly Johnson, who is U.S. Sen. Mark Warner’s outreach representative, attended the event in recognition of the VTCRC’s success.

“The research park is proud of the 180+ companies whose research and developments make an impact around the world every day. VIP Media Day was our opportunity to showcase this,” said Dawn Myers, COO of the VTCRC.

Onward New River Valley participated in the media day to support the VTCRC and the local companies that are important assets in Virginia’s New River Valley. Executive Director Charlie Jewell participated in interviews with Site Selection Magazine and Pharm Exec Magazine. Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack served as an ambassador for elected officials and representatives.

The media day featured interview opportunities, industry tours, and a helicopter flyover of the VTCRC, Virginia Tech Campus, and Virginia Tech Transportation Institute.

Virginia Tech Campus During Helicopter Flyover Tour by Abigail Hammack

Some of the coverage garnered from the event includes articles from R&D Magazine and Site Selection Magazine.

The participating companies and organizations included many within the NRV’s targeted industries: Food Processing & Agribusiness (Obis One, Pervida Beverage Company); Information Technology (Excella, 1901 Group, Click & Pledge); and Unmanned Systems (TORC, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute, VPT).

Click the Industries tab for more information about industries in the NRV.

View additional photos of VIP Media Day here. For more information on VIP Media Day, visit www.vtcrc.com, email VTCRC’s business development and communication manager, Melissa Vidmar, at melissa.vidmar@vtcrc.com.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.