2020 NRV Announcements Highlighted in Virginia Business

2020 NRV Announcements Highlighted in Virginia Business

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New River Valley, VA – Three major 2020 NRV business announcements were recently highlighted in Virginia Business magazine. The article, titled “A Diversified Portfolio”, describes the announcements and their impact on the region. The article also discussed the state of the manufacturing and tech sectors in Virginia’s New River Valley during the COVID-19 pandemic using data from Onward New River Valley’s recent Industry Competitiveness Surveys.

Learn more about three 2020 NRV business announcements included in the article below:

Read the full article from Virginia Business here.

See more business announcements from Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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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.

Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

Moog Inc. to Expand and Create 75 New Jobs in Christiansburg

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~ Company to invest $10.7 million to relocate operations to larger facility in Christiansburg ~

RICHMOND—Governor Ralph Northam today announced that Moog Inc. (NYSE: MOG.A and MOG.B), a designer and manufacturer of high-performance motion control products and solutions, will invest $10.7 million to transfer existing jobs and equipment from one of its Blacksburg facilities to a larger building in the Falling Branch Corporate Park in Montgomery County. The company will have an additional 80,000 square feet at its new operation in Christiansburg to accommodate increased customers and demand and focus on production of its slip ring products for the industrial marketplace. Virginia successfully competed with multiple states for the project, which will create 75 new jobs.

“Moog is an important partner in the Commonwealth, and it is exciting to see the company grow its capabilities in Montgomery County,” said Governor Northam. “The New River Valley has outstanding institutions of higher education and a world-class workforce, and Moog’s continued investment is a testament to these assets. We are confident that this expansion will propel the company and the Commonwealth’s aerospace industry forward.”

“The New River Valley has outstanding institutions of higher education and a world-class workforce, and Moog’s continued investment is a testament to these assets. We are confident that this expansion will propel the company and the Commonwealth’s aerospace industry forward.”
-Governor Ralph Northam

Headquartered in East Aurora, New York, Moog Inc. is a worldwide designer, manufacturer, and integrator of precision control components and systems. The company’s high-performance systems control military and commercial aircraft, satellites and space vehicles, launch vehicles, missiles, automated industrial machinery, and marine and medical equipment. Founded over 65 years ago with only a few employees, Moog now operates in 26 countries. Moog maintains a large presence in Virginia, with multiple locations totaling more than 1,200 employees.

“Virginia’s aerospace sector is strong, and Moog is a valuable contributor to our leadership position in this sector,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “We are proud that the company develops revolutionary aerospace technology from its growing operations in Montgomery County. This announcement, and the creation of 75 high-quality jobs, represents an important step forward as we work to rebound from this global health crisis.”

“Moog is excited to be expanding in Virginia and Montgomery County, in particular,” said Janet Byrne-Safier, Vice President of Moog’s Power and Data Sector. “As we look to support our growing business in established and new markets, the focus has been on developing geographic centers of excellence with ready access to a diverse talent pool. Moog places emphasis on retaining and developing its current workforce and new employees. Moog appreciates the assistance and cooperation of Montgomery County and the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and its Virginia Jobs Investment Program in this endeavor.”

“Moog is excited to be expanding in Virginia and Montgomery County, in particular. As we look to support our growing business in established and new markets, the focus has been on developing geographic centers of excellence with ready access to a diverse talent pool. Moog places emphasis on retaining and developing its current workforce and new employees.”
-Janet Byrne-Safier, Vice President of Moog’s Power and Data Sector

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Montgomery County to secure the project for Virginia and will support Moog’s job creation through the Virginia Jobs Investment Program (VJIP). VJIP provides consultative services and funding to companies creating new jobs in order to support employee recruitment and training activities. As a business incentive supporting economic development, VJIP reduces the human resource costs of new and expanding companies. VJIP is state-funded, demonstrating Virginia’s commitment to enhancing job opportunities for citizens.

Moog was recently selected to participate in 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.

“When an existing company not only decides to stay in our community, but also flourishes to the point of expansion, well, that’s when we know that we are all doing something right,” said Chair of the Montgomery County Board of Supervisors Steve Fijalkowski. “Moog is a growing global company with a strong history in developing advanced technologies. We’re proud that they are a part of Montgomery County.”

“Moog’s exciting news of expansion into Christiansburg is a great example of economic achievement through the hard work of a talented and committed workforce,” said Delegate Nick Rush. “I extend my personal congratulations and appreciation to Moog for its local, regional, and global contributions, along with best wishes for continued success.”

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

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

Moog Inc.
Contact: Cynthia White
Email: cwhite@moog.com
Phone: (540) 443-4730

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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.

Qualtrax One of Best Places to Work in VA

Qualtrax One of Best Places to Work in VA

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Montgomery County, VA – According to Virginia Business magazine, Blacksburg-based Qualtrax is one of the best places to work in Virginia. The tech company was featured on the magazine’s 11th Annual Best Places to Work in Virginia List. This is the fourth consecutive year that Qualtrax was included in the “Small Employers (up to 99 U.S. employees)” category.

Virginia Business worked with Best Companies Group out of Pennsylvania to compile the list. Employers were evaluated on categories such as number of paid holidays, retirement benefits, diversity training, and telecommuting options for employees. After evaluating the employers and compiling a list of the top 100 in the Commonwealth, Virginia Business then divided the list into categories for large, medium, and small employers.

See all the companies on the 2021 Best Places to Work in Virginia list here.

Learn more about Qualtrax’s previous honors on the Best Places to Work in Virginia list from 2020, 2019, and 2018.

Learn more about Qualtrax and the information technology industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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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 Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

NRV Communities Among Top 20 Safest Cities in VA

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New River Valley, VA – Three communities in the NRV are among the top 20 safest cities in Virginia for 2021. The National Council for Home Safety and Security found that Blacksburg, Radford, and Christiansburg are some of the safest places in the Commonwealth.

Here are the rankings for the three NRV communities who made the list:

#5: Blacksburg
#11: Radford
#20: Christiansburg

According to Alarms.org, the Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA, better known as the New River Valley, is “one of the fastest growing metropolitan statistical areas in the country, with low crime being one of the main draws for many moving into the area.”

To compile the rankings, Alarms.org reviewed the most recent FBI Uniform Crime Report Statistics for Virginia cities with populations over 10,000. Learn more about the methodology and see the full rankings list for the safest cities in Virginian for 2021 here.

Learn more about the safe communities and excellent quality of life in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities here.

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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.

New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

New River Among Favorite Rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains

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New River Valley, VA – The New River was listed among 13 favorite rivers in the Blue Ridge Mountains by the editors of Blue Ridge Country magazine. The editors compared at least 50 rivers throughout the Blue Ridge region and created a list of their 13 favorites.

Here’s how the article describes the New River:

“Despite the name, this river is one of the oldest on the planet. It’s even thought to be more ancient than the Appalachian Mountains upon which it meanders. Unlike most rivers which plot their courses at lower elevations, this one runs on the crests and mountaintop basins. Its cuts and curves have exposed rocks dating back over one billion years, while the river itself is thought to be between 10 million and 360 million years old.”

The New River is an essential part of Virginia’s New River Valley. More than 89 miles of the New River run through the region, and it is one of the NRV’s major outdoor attractions. The river flows through most of the communities in the New River Valley and offers many unique experiences to both residents and visitors alike.

Learn more about Virginia’s New River Valley and the New River here.

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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 Autonomous Vehicle Industry Featured in Virginia Economic Review

NRV Autonomous Vehicle Industry Featured in Virginia Economic Review

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Montgomery County, VA – The Virginia Economic Review recently featured an article titled, “Autonomous Vehicle Companies Build Foundation of Trust,” which highlighted two members of the NRV autonomous vehicle industry. The article shared how Torc Robotics and the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) are both working to research, test, and advance the field of self-driving technology.

The article also highlighted the business advantages that the New River Valley has to offer to companies in the autonomous vehicle industry. As the article states,

“The New River Valley provides Torc [Robotics] with an ideal location to operate, [CEO Michael] Fleming believes, with a pool of talent willing to work hard, proximity to a major university, and a low cost of living, especially when compared to the Northeast or California’s Silicon Valley.”

Read the full article about the advances that Torc Robotics and VTTI are making to autonomous vehicles here.

Learn more about unmanned systems industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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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.

VT Food Science & Technology Ranked #9 Bachelor’s Program in US

VT Food Science & Technology Ranked #9 Bachelor’s Program in US

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Montgomery County, VA – Successful Student ranked Virginia Tech’s Department of Food Science and Technology #9 on a list of the top ten bachelor’s programs in Food Science and Nutrition. In addition, the master’s degree program was ranked eighth on Successful Student’s list of best programs in Food Science. The lists were originally published in November 2019 and updated in May 2020.

Virginia Tech’s Department of Food Science and Technology clearly has some of the best programs in the country, and their students go on to be very successful after graduation. According to Department Head Joseph Marcy, “Each year, nearly 100 percent of our students either have a job or are in graduate school within six months of graduation. We have always been aware of the success of our students and their rise to national prominence, but it is very rewarding to have this ranking bring independent evaluation to that. We are delighted at what our students continue to achieve.”

The ability to recruit such highly qualified food scientists from within the region is an asset for the food processing and agribusiness industry in Virginia’s New River Valley. Learn about all the business advantages the NRV has to offer the industry here.

Read an article from Virginia Tech about the Successful Student accolades here.

See the rankings from Successful Student for bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees.

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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 Accolades and Awards in 2020

NRV Accolades and Awards in 2020

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New River Valley, VA – Throughout 2020, the New River Valley was frequently recognized for its outstanding lifestyle amenities, business growth, and educational opportunities. The region is truly a premiere destination to live, work, and do business. Below is a list of just a few of the accolades won in 2020 by the counties, city, towns, and universities that comprise Virginia’s New River Valley. Pulaski is 2nd Most Affordable Place to Buy a Home in VA High Quality of Life Floyd Voted Top Tiny Adventure Town 2020 Abundant Outdoor Amenities Harmonia Recognized as one of Virginia's "Fantastic 50" Expanding and Developing Businesses Exelaration Ranked #3 Best Tech Internship by Vault Educating Tomorrow’s Talent RU Ranked #33 Southern Regional University by U.S. News & World Report Top Tier Colleges & Universities Explore more accolades won by NRV counties, city, towns, and universities here.

Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.

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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.
Top Ten Posts of 2020

Top Ten Posts of 2020

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New River Valley, VA – 2020 has been a year unlike any other, but there is still positive news happening around Virginia’s New River Valley. Recap this unique year with a list of the Top 10 Posts of 2020 on TheNRV.org. The following posts had the most pageviews online.

 

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

In August it was announced that Torc Robotics will invest $8.5 million to expand its software development operations in Montgomery County. The company will establish an additional facility at the VT Corporate Research Center and create 350 new jobs.

9. NRV Commerce Park Welcomes Patton Logistics Group

In January it was announced that The Patton Logistics Group will invest $12 million to establish a new logistic and warehousing operation at NRV Commerce Park located in Pulaski County. The project will create 33 new jobs.

 

8. Pete Dye River Course Ranked 19th Best in VA for 2020

Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech

The Virginia Golf Ratings Panel ranked the Pete Dye River Course of Virginia Tech as #19 in a list of the top 50 golf courses in the state. The golf course is well known for its scenic views and 2.5 miles of frontage on the New River.

7. Why Blacksburg, VA is a Best Place to Live

Originally published in 2018, this blog post shared an editorial that Melody Warnick published on Livability about “why she thinks Blacksburg is a special place to live.” Warnick is a freelance writer, author, and Blacksburg local.

6. Kollmorgen Motion Solutions Used in Fight Against COVID-19

Kollmorgen Motion Solutions COVID-19

Kollmorgen played a critical role in the fight against COVID-19. The company’s motion solutions are being used by manufacturers around the country to make “respirators and other personal protective equipment” as well as other essential items that help diagnose and treat the virus.

5. 10 Things to Do in the NRV This Summer

Blog readers were clearly looking for fun and safe things to do this summer around the New River Valley. Originally published in 2018, this blog post lists ten unique spots to visit throughout the region.

4. H&V Delivering Critical Materials in the Fight Against COVID-19

Hollingsworth & Vose COVID-19

Hollingsworth & Vose was busy throughout 2020 “making filtration material that is a critical component in Respiratory Protection Equipment being used to fight the virus.” They continued to increase their production throughout the year to help with the COVID-19 pandemic response.

3. Pulaski is the Most Affordable Place to Live in VA

The town of Pulaski was named the cheapest place to live in Virginia for the second year in a row by HomeSnacks.net. In particular, “housing in Pulaski is [very affordable] when taken as a proportion of income, whether you’re renting or buying.”

 

2. Virginia Tech Ranked 7th Most Loved College by The Princeton Review

Virginia Tech Ranked 7th Most Loved College by The Princeton Review

The Princeton Review ranked Virginia Tech the 7th most loved college for 2021. VT also ranked first for best counseling services, eighth for best campus food, and fifteenth for town-gown relations are great.

1. Virginia Tech Ranks Top 3 Best College Campuses in America

Niche.com ranked Virginia Tech third in their list of 2020 Best College Campuses. Rankings were “based on key statistics and student reviews using data from the U.S. Department of Education.”

 

Correction: September 1, 2021: This blog post was corrected to reflect that Pete Dye River Course was ranked #19 in the top 50 golf courses in Virginia for 2020. A previous version of this article incorrectly stated the course was ranked #18.

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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.
VTTI Expands Virginia Smart Roads with Rural Test Track

VTTI Expands Virginia Smart Roads with Rural Test Track

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Montgomery County, VA – Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) announced in November that they will expand the Virginia Smart Roads with a rural test track. This test track is “the first research facility created to test automated driving systems and other next-generation technologies in a rural setting.”

The 2.5 mile-long Rural Roadway features many common characteristics of rural roadways including unpaved sections, steep hills, and winding curves. The test track will allow researchers to test the safety of automated vehicles driving in these difficult conditions.

According to VTTI, adding the rural test track means that “the Virginia Smart Roads can now accommodate testing capabilities on every road type (highway, urban/suburban, and rural) in the country.”

Read more about the VTTI Rural Roadway Expansion here.

Learn more about the unmanned systems industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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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.