Torc Robotics to Invest $8.5 Million and Create 350 New Jobs in Blacksburg

Torc Robotics to Invest $8.5 Million and Create 350 New Jobs in Blacksburg

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

~ Self-driving vehicle pioneer to invest $8.5 million to grow software development operations ~

Montgomery County, VA – Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Torc Robotics, a Blacksburg-based leader in self-driving vehicle systems, will invest $8.5 million to expand its software development operations in Montgomery County. The company will establish an additional facility at the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center in close proximity to its current operation in the Blacksburg Industrial Park. Virginia successfully competed with North Carolina and Texas for the project, which will create 350 new jobs.

“This region’s talented workforce can help forward-looking tech companies grow, and Torc Robotics is demonstrating that by creating 350 new jobs in Montgomery County,” said Governor Northam. “Self-driving technology is a booming sector, and Torc has been at the forefront of the industry since its founding. We thank the company for this significant investment in our Commonwealth, which comes at a critical point in our economic recovery, and we look forward to their continued entrepreneurship and innovation in the New River Valley.”

“This region’s talented workforce can help forward-looking tech companies grow, and Torc Robotics is demonstrating that by creating 350 new jobs in Montgomery County.”
– Governor Ralph Northam

Torc Robotics was established in Blacksburg—at the birth of the self-driving vehicle revolution—by a team of Virginia Tech students who, after winning multiple robotics challenges, decided to commercialize their technology. The company has 15 years of experience in pioneering safety-critical, self-driving applications. This expansion supports Torc’s effort to develop self-driving trucks with Daimler Trucks—the global market-share leader. While consumers dream of self-driving cars, industry leaders expect long-haul trucks will be the first vehicles to fully utilize the technology due to simpler driving environments and a stronger business case. Today, vehicles using Torc’s self-driving technology operate on multiple continents. In 2019, Torc joined the Daimler Trucks family and now employs about 175 people.

“As a homegrown Virginia company in Montgomery County, Torc Robotics is a tremendous example of the success startup technology businesses can achieve in the Commonwealth,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “The company is pioneering a niche market that has gained a lot of momentum, and the impressive talent pipeline from Virginia Tech combined with the New River Valley’s strong workforce will continue to support Torc’s growth as an industry leader.”

“The company is pioneering a niche market that has gained a lot of momentum, and the impressive talent pipeline from Virginia Tech combined with the New River Valley’s strong workforce will continue to support Torc’s growth as an industry leader.”
– Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball

Torc Robotics is a 2013 graduate of VEDP’s award-winning Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) Program. VALET is an application-based, two-year global export acceleration program that provides participating companies with assistance from a team of experienced international service providers to help meet their export goals.

“Trucking is the backbone of the U.S. economy, delivering food and products to every community,” said Torc Robotics CEO Michael Fleming. “We greatly appreciate Virginia’s support of our mission to save lives and our innovative partnership with Daimler—the inventor of the truck—to commercialize self-driving trucks and make our roads safer. We selected the Commonwealth for its workforce culture and regulatory climate. In our experience, people in the region stay with companies for the long-term. Commercializing self-driving trucks is a marathon—not a sprint, and requires a long-term commitment from companies, investors, and employees. Virginia policy enables us to test our vehicles on public roads, which is critical to bringing this technology to market. Virginia has provided the opportunity to rapidly develop and test in unique environments and weather conditions, ranging from summer heat to winter snow.”

“In our experience, people in the region stay with companies for the long-term. Commercializing self-driving trucks is a marathon—not a sprint, and requires a long-term commitment from companies, investors, and employees.”
– Michael Fleming, Torc Robotics CEO

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Montgomery County and Onward New River Valley to secure the project for Virginia. Governor Northam approved an $800,000 grant from the Commonwealth’s Opportunity Fund to assist Montgomery County with the project. The Governor also approved $3.5 million in funds from the Virginia Economic Development Incentive Grant (VEDIG). VEDIG was established as a self-funded program of performance-based incentives that the Commonwealth awards to exceptional economic development projects with large numbers of employees and very high wages relative to average wages for that particular area.

Support for Torc Robotics’ job creation will be provided through the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, a workforce initiative created by VEDP in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System, with funding support from the Northam administration and the Virginia General Assembly. Launched in 2019, the program accelerates new facility start-ups through the direct delivery of recruitment and training services that are fully customized to a company’s unique products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture. All program services are provided at no cost to qualified new and expanding companies as an incentive for job creation.

“Torc Robotics continues to be a valued and integral part of our business community,” said Montgomery County Board of Supervisors Chair Steve Fijalkowski. “We are very excited to have Torc Robotics commit to new investments, innovations, and technology development in Montgomery County, where they can benefit from our community’s skilled and talented workforce.”

“Torc Robotics is emblematic of the exciting work being done in the New River Valley and the major contributions Virginia Tech graduates are making to the economy of our Commonwealth,” said Senator John S. Edwards. “Virginia is on the cutting edge of our nation’s transforming infrastructure thanks to companies like Torc. I look forward to many future successes from them.”

“We are thrilled that Torc continues to expand its investment in Montgomery County,” said Delegate Chris Hurst. “We take great pride in the burgeoning innovation and technology sector in New River Valley that continues to attract and retain a talented workforce. Torc’s continued growth will pave the way for future investments in Montgomery County and Southwest Virginia as a whole.”

Office of the Governor
Contact: Alena Yarmosky
Email: Alena.Yarmosky@governor.virginia.gov

Virginia Economic Development Partnership
Contact: Suzanne Clark
Email: sclark@vedp.org

Torc Robotics
Contact: Eileen Quirk Baumann
Email: press@torc.ai
Phone: (540) 953-0073

###

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.

FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

FastForward Prepares NRV Workforce for Jobs in Manufacturing

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Pulaski County, VA – New River Community College (NRCC)’s FastForward Program was highlighted in an article in the July 2020 issue of Valley Business Front. The program is run by NRCC’s Office of Workforce Development and is designed to help individuals in Virginia’s New River Valley prepare and train for in-demand careers.

According to the article, “FastForward was made possible by the New Economy Workforce Credential Grant Program, developed during the 2016 General Assembly Session, to create and sustain a supply of credentialed workers to fill high-demand occupations in fields which support the state’s economy while making the attainment of these credentials more affordable.”

Several of the FastForward training programs at NRCC are designed to serve students looking for careers in the manufacturing industry. There are two Six Sigma certification programs that are offered in partnership with the college’s Manufacturing Technology Center. In addition, the college is adding a Certified Production Technician (CPT) program in Spring 2021. This goal of this Manufacturing Skills Standards Council (MSSC) program is to “raise the level of performance of production technicians both to assist the individuals in finding higher-wage jobs and to help employers ensure their workforce increases the company’s productivity and competitiveness.”

Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the advanced manufacturing industry, and training programs like FastForward help to strengthen the industry’s talent pool in the region.

Read the full article from Valley Business Front about the NRCC FastForward program here.

Learn more about the NRCC FastForward program here.

###
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.

FoxGuard Solutions Graduates from VALET Business Acceleration Program

FoxGuard Solutions Graduates from VALET Business Acceleration Program

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Governor Ralph Northam announced last week that FoxGuard Solutions, based in Christiansburg, is among 10 companies across the Commonwealth that recently graduated from Virginia Economic Development Partnership’s (VEDP) Virginia Leaders in Export Trade (VALET) Program.

Here is more detailed information about the VALET Program from the press release:

VALET is a two-year international business acceleration program that provides participating companies with international sales plan development services, assistance from a team of experienced international service providers, international business meetings with potential partners, educational events, and customized market research.

Read the full press release, including information on the other graduating companies, here.

###

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.

NRV Highlighted as Lesser-Known Summer Vacation in VA

NRV Highlighted as Lesser-Known Summer Vacation in VA

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – During the COVID-19 pandemic, people are searching for vacations that are fun and allow for physical distancing. It is a great time to consider visiting Virginia’s New River Valley. The region was highlighted as one of the “Lesser-Known Summer Vacations in Virginia” by the Virginia Tourism Corporation.

Here is what the Virginia is for Lovers blog has to say about the region:

“Organized along the New River between the Blue Ridge Mountains and the Appalachian Mountains, the New River Valley in Southwest Virginia contains cities like Blacksburg, Christiansburg, Pulaski, and Radford. With the New River as the focal point, water sports in the valley are becoming a big draw for travelers interested in exploring Virginia’s rushing waterways.”

The outdoor amenities available in Virginia’s New River Valley make the region a unique place to live, work, and play. Learn more about travel to the NRV in the article here.

Note: Please contact destinations highlighted in the article prior to visiting since COVID-19 public health guidelines may have changed opening hours and activity availability.

###

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.

NRV Manufacturing Industry Featured in Valley Business FRONT

NRV Manufacturing Industry Featured in Valley Business FRONT

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

New River Valley, VA – The August 2020 issue of Valley Business FRONT featured an article titled, “Not Your Father’s Manufacturing Industry”. The article showcased the manufacturing industry in Virginia’s New River Valley.

The region is a hub for the manufacturing industry, with, according to the article, “140 manufacturers… located in the New River Valley. The sector employs 12,000 people, making it one of the top five employment industries.”

The article discussed current trends and challenges in manufacturing globally, nationally, and locally. One such challenge is training the workforce to adapt to the increased automation in the industry. Local institutions, such as New River Community College, have implemented programs for students to ensure that qualified employees are available to meet the changing needs of manufacturers in the region.

Read the entire article from Valley Business FRONT here. Learn more about manufacturing in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

###

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.

Virginia Tech Among 50 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America

Virginia Tech Among 50 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – Condé Nast Traveler recently ranked Virginia Tech among the 50 Most Beautiful College Campuses in America. The article states, “College campuses big and small boast some of the most beautiful architecture and landscaping – not to mention history – in the entire country.”

Here’s what the article had to say about Virginia Tech:

“While many old colleges are clad in beautiful stonework, the buildings on Virginia Tech’s campus all feature the locally sourced “Hokie Stone.” Brought to the campus from nearby limestone quarries outside Blacksburg, Virginia, the renovation of the school’s buildings dates back to the university’s fifth president during the turn of the 20th century. At the time, the school’s buildings were primarily made from brick, and university president Joseph D. Eggleston sought to use limestone of the area to model buildings closer to institutions like Oxford and Cambridge.”

Virginia Tech is one of the several colleges and universities that call Virginia’s New River Valley home. Learn more about education in the region here.

Photo credit: Photo by Ray Meese for Virginia Tech.

###

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.

Wing Drone Flown in Christiansburg Added to Smithsonian’s Collection

Wing Drone Flown in Christiansburg Added to Smithsonian’s Collection

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – The drone used by Wing to complete the first commercial drone delivery in the United States is now part of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum’s collection. The drone made its first delivery in Christiansburg, VA on October 18, 2019.

The Smithsonian’s article “Delivery by Drone with Wing” states, “As the newest artifact in our collection, this drone helps us tell the story of how aviation can reshape how we live and work in our communities by moving more efficiently over short distances without cumbersome infrastructure. It will eventually be displayed in the upcoming Allan and Shelley Holt Innovations Gallery.”

Smithsonian Magazine highlighted Christiansburg as a town that welcomes new technology in its article, “This Drone Made the First Home Delivery in the United States”. The article states,

“Christiansburg may also be more unique than meets the eye in terms of their welcoming attitude towards new technology. The city is just south of Virginia Tech, which houses the Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership, a hub of drone testing and research and Wing’s spokespeople say the community is very keen on being at the cutting edge.”

Christiansburg is one of the many communities in Virginia’s New River Valley. The NRV is an expanding hub for the unmanned systems industry. Read more about the industry in the region here.

###

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.

Kollmorgen Increases Production During COVID-19 Pandemic

Kollmorgen Increases Production During COVID-19 Pandemic

/0 Comments/in , , , /by

Radford, VA – Kollmorgen’s commitment to serving customers during the COVID-19 pandemic was recently highlighted the article, “On the Front Lines” in Virginia Economic Review’s Q2 2020 issue. Kollmorgen’s Radford facilities have ramped up production to meet the increased demand for the company’s motion control products and systems, which are “used to manufacture everything from personal protective equipment to diagnostic machines to ventilators.”

The article states,

“Kollmorgen has provided motion solutions to ventilator and respirator suppliers for more than a decade. When leaders at many of those companies learned the nation lacked the necessary ventilators for critical patients and personal protective equipment for health professionals, they wanted to help by increasing production. Other executives of companies which had never manufactured these items wanted to buy components from Kollmorgen that would allow them to start new manufacturing lines. [Kollmorgen General Manager Peter] Dempsey also heard from company heads wanting to increase or start production of other essential items like test kits, diagnostic machines, and CT scanners.”

Read the entire article about how Kollmorgen is supporting the global response to the COVID-19 pandemic here.

Learn how people and companies in Virginia’s New River Valley are responding to the pandemic here.

###

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.

Virginia Tech Transportation Institute Received Record-Setting $50 Million in External Awards

Virginia Tech Transportation Institute Received Record-Setting $50 Million in External Awards

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Montgomery County, VA – A recent article from Virginia Tech Daily highlighted Virginia Tech Transportation Institute’s major research advancements for fiscal year 2020. VTTI received a record-setting $50 million in external awards for the year. This funding allowed for the following major research programs and projects to be pursued:

  • U.S. Department of Transportation (USDOT) Automated Driving System Demonstration Grants
  • Virginia Smart Roads Expansions
  • Automated Mobility Partnership (AMP) Program
  • Drivers Knowledge and Correct Use of New Technology Features in Vehicles
  • Refining Testable Cases and Scenarios Concepts
  • Safety Implications of Potential Advanced Driver Assistance Systems Sensor Degradation

    • Virginia’s New River Valley is a hub for the unmanned systems industry. VTTI is one of the leaders in the region for unmanned systems and transportation safety research.


    Read the entire article describing VTTI’s research projects for fiscal year 2020 here.

    Learn more about the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute here.

    Learn more about the Unmanned Systems industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

    ###

    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.

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

    Popular NRV Water Spots Win Awards from Blue Ridge Country Magazine

    /0 Comments/in , , , /by

    New River Valley, VA – Popular water spots across Virginia’s New River Valley won awards in the 2020 Mountain Blue reader poll from Blue Ridge Country magazine. The poll asked magazine readers to vote on the best water-related locations and businesses for each state in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Five locations and businesses in the NRV were included among the winners.

    Best Virginia Waterfall
    Cascade Falls (Giles County)– Platinum Winner

    Best Virginia Water-Related State Park
    New River Trail State Park (Pulaski County) – Silver Winner
    Claytor Lake State Park (Pulaski County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia Swimming Hole
    Dismal Falls (Giles County) – Honorable Mention

    Best Virginia River & Fishing Outfitter
    Tangent Outfitters (Giles County)– Silver Winner

    These poll winners are just some of the many unique outdoor amenities that Virginia’s New River Valley has to offer. Learn more about the outdoors across the NRV here.

    ###

    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.