Excella Extension Center Plans Expansion

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Blacksburg, VA – The old ‘Catch 22’ – you can’t get a job without experience, and you can’t get experience without a job. For the past ten years, the Excella Extension Center located in the Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) has been training software engineering students to work on software development projects. Recently, Excella ranked #3 Best Tech & Engineering Internships and #6 Best Internships for Employment Prospects by Vault. Since 2009, approximately 80 students have already participated in their existing program, and 30 of them have accepted full-time employment within the company.

Excella co-founder and partner Steve Cooper will run a spinoff company, based on the Excella Extension Center model, set to open at the end of 2019. It will be located in the VTCRC and will provide talent and virtual workforce to Excella and other businesses. The program will benefit both businesses and students by allowing recent graduates to hit the ground running when they start working in the industry. Virginia Tech students will be the first to benefit, but Cooper has plans to expand the concept to other campuses, including Radford University.

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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; Automated Driving System; unmanned systems

VTTI Receives Funding for Automated Vehicle Research

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Blacksburg, VA – Virginia Tech Transportation Institute (VTTI) was awarded two U.S. Department of Transportation grants totaling $15 million to continue research on the safe integration of autonomous vehicles into U.S. roadways.

Out of the 73 proposals, seven grants were awarded by the Automated Driving System Demonstration Grants program. This program provides federal funding to projects in order to test how to safely integrate automated driving systems on U.S. roadways. VTTI was the only organization to receive two grants, each $7.5 million, to fund two separate projects: automated driving systems and public safety and automated trucks and mixed fleets. VTTI is the biggest transportation research institute in the U.S. with the largest group of driving safety researchers in the world and an infrastructure worth more than $110 million.

The first project, automated driving systems and public safety, will focus on showing how highly automated vehicles can safely adapt to encounters with public safety, which is very unpredictable by nature. VTTI is collaborating with stakeholders like Transurban, the Virginia Department of Transportation, public safety stakeholders, the Global Center for Automotive Performance, and a Consortium of Automotive Manufacturers organized through CAMP LLC. Testing of the public safety scenarios will take place on the I-95 Express Lanes which are operated by Transurban.

The second project, automated trucks and mixed fleets, is working with the trucking industry to provide clear guidelines on how to safely implement and benefit from trucks with automated driving systems. Along with the development of a fleet concept of operations, demonstrations will take place on public roadways.

“VTTI has assembled a world-class 17-member team that includes automated driving system technology developers, trucking fleets, six state departments of transportation, and other supporting organizations, to tackle this topic.”
– Martin Walker, VTTI Senior Research Associate

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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.

Blacksburg is 13th Best College Town to Start a Career

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Blacksburg, VA – According to Business Insider, Blacksburg is the 13th best college town in America to start your career in 2019.

Grand Canyon University conducted a study to identify the best college towns for starting a career. They collected data from the US Census, Yelp, Indeed, official government climate data, and more for all the cities included in the study. Six categories were used to compare the cities and included, similar state of life population, job market, climate, culture, city infrastructure, and financial. Cities were ranked on a scale of 1 – 10 in each category and then added together for a final score between 1 and 60; the higher the better.

In the 13th spot, Blacksburg scored an overall 36.05, falling just short of the 11th spot which Auburn, Alabama and Oxford, Mississippi tied for at 36.15. Notre Dame, Indiana, the top college town to start a career came in at 42.5.

Check out the full list of the top 20 schools 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.

Rural Floyd Enjoys the Flash of High Speed Internet

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Floyd County, VA – Citizens Telephone Cooperative is utilizing $10 million in federal funding through Alternative Connect America Cost Model (ACAM), to bring better internet access to the residents of Floyd County.

Citizens Telephone has served Floyd County for over 100 years and has stayed up to date with advances in technology. However, CEO and General Manager Greg Sapp says that “laying of fiber optic cable at 1G speed, one gigabit per second, will far exceed what many are used to, even for larger cities in the area.” Citizens plans to have 60% of the homes in Floyd County connected by the end of the year, with the goal of 97% being connected at the end of 2021. While they are unsure of the future of the ACAM after 2026, Sapp plans to have the work completed well in advance of the funding deadlines.

“So we’ve always been able to support people that are used to being in an urban area, but they needed the technology to connect them. In the past, people have tried to frame us into a little box based on the number of lanes of roads that come in here, but now through fiber and glass, it’s an unlimited connection to the world.” – Lydeanna Martin, Floyd County Community and Economic Development Director

The 1G broadband connections are creating positive outcomes not just for the residents and businesses, but also for the school systems. As a result of the improved wi-fi, Floyd County school district is pursuing a $17-million Collaboration and Career Development Center that will not only support high school students but will also offer evening courses for adults and expand to the elementary school curriculum. Additionally, with the improved connection, Floyd is attracting more individuals from the corporate world who are looking to semi-retire.

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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 Corporate Research Center Plans to Open Co-Working Workspace

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BLACKSBURG, VA – The Virginia Tech Corporate Research Center (VTCRC) will soon be home to a unique and innovative co-working community, called COgro. COgro is a community of entrepreneurs, professionals, remote workers, early stage and startup companies, trailing spouses, temporary staff, and companies in transition to permanent spaces at the VTCRC to conduct business.
“The research park serves as the perfect location for entrepreneurs and established business owners in an environment like no other. There isn’t a business or industry that we are targeting, but instead we want to house those who are passionate about what they do and looking for an environment that inspires.” says Dawn Myers CPM, Chief Operating Officer.
COgro will offer a flexible workspace with many amenities such as free parking, Wi-Fi, 17 conference rooms, HUBZone designation, weekly snacks, unlimited coffee, tea, and flavored waters, networking and training events; access to copy, print, fax, and scan machines; recreation areas and leagues; and all the other amenities and benefits that employees of the research park receive. “We are excited about the grand opening, October 1, 2019 and the impact this will have on the region. The co-working community will house 64 members in unreserved and reserved workstations and two-and four-person offices. Leasing is now available for those looking to be part of a co-working environment that goes beyond the basic needs of a desk and chair.” Said Joe Meredith, Ph.D., President and CEO Construction is set to begin this month and after the October 1st opening, the VTCRC will host two celebrations: Private Media/Press Open House | Tuesday, October 8 at 2:00 p.m. Ribbon Cutting Ceremony | Wednesday, October 9 at 11:30 a.m.
    Hosted by the Montgomery County Chamber of Commerce
Stop by to tour the space, check out the unique spaces, and meet others from the community.
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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.

Onward NRV Launches IT Industry Hub Initiatives

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Virginia’s New River Valley is an emerging hub for information technology. The NRV is home to over 80 companies with more than 1,600 IT-related jobs specializing in blockchain, cybersecurity, software development, IT support services, and digital creative. Over the past five years, the region has experienced an astounding 29% job growth with over 700 jobs postings just in the past year. With exceptional educational programs at our local universities, Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College, the NRV is producing some of the best IT workforce in the country who can flourish here, in a region with excellent quality of life and low cost of living. The industry thrives here in our collection of downtowns, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a large presence of grassroots meet-up groups for IT professionals.

Earlier this year, Onward NRV launched its IT Hub Initiative as part of its Onward 2023 five-year economic development strategy for the region. The goal of the initiative is to establish the New River Valley as a nationally recognized hub for IT companies and professionals. Through the initiative, Onward NRV has begun hosting biannual IT Leaders Summits to engage business leaders in supporting and growing the industry.

Onward NRV also recently released an IT Hub Branding video and developed a new section of its website devoted to telling the story of IT in the NRV. The video showcases why the NRV is a great place to work in IT from the quality of life assets, to innovation that comes from the existing industry hub, to the supportive IT culture. A variety of companies are featured through-out the video providing testimonials reinforcing the benefits of IT in the NRV.

In Virginia’s New River Valley, opportunity is abundant and creativity is embraced. Here we’re building tools to protect nations, currencies, and families. We’re creating new experiences, platforms, and technical communities. We’re supporting advanced systems, enterprises, infrastructure, and networks. “If you’re talking to your next-door neighbor, it’s not necessarily about borrowing a lawn mower. But It’s about the autonomous car that their working on or about the blockchain technology, and it gets everybody feeding this variety of ideas and it supports innovation through-out every company in the region.”This is a great time to be in IT in the NRV.Learn more about working and doing business in the NRV www.theNRV.org/IT

Posted by Virginia's New River Valley on Thursday, August 29, 2019

The targeted industry page for IT features Do Business, Work Here, and Live Here components to support companies and professionals looking to work in IT in the NRV. The Do Business page focuses on access to talent with two universities and one community college in the region as well as low operating costs. While the Work Here page shows the buying power of IT professionals in the NRV and the IT culture that has been established by the grassroots community groups. The Work Here page also provides a portal to specifically search for IT jobs in the New River Valley.

Explore the industry pages at www.theNRV.org/IT.

The Industry Hub video and target industry page are just the first step to creating resources to showcase the region as well as exhibiting the New River Valley as an emerging IT hub. The pages will continue to evolve to include internship opportunities, a relocation guide, and more. Onward NRV is also creating Employer Spotlight videos to demonstrate the variety of IT companies and job opportunities available in the NRV. These videos will provide insight from employees at all levels as to why they chose to live, work, and do business in Virginia’s New River Valley.

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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.

Torc and Daimler

Torc Robotics Announces New Jobs and Expansion in Blacksburg

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Blacksburg, VA – Torc Robotics announces building expansion ground breaking at their Blacksburg headquarters to accommodate their growing team. Torc Robotics, a leader in self-driving vehicle systems, broke ground mid-August on a new headquarters expansion that will almost double the existing space. The 15,800-square-foot addition will serve Torc’s growing team, which is expected to expand significantly with Daimler Trucks’ pending acquisition of a majority stake in the Blacksburg-based company. Torc and Daimler Trucks, a division in the Daimler Group, the inventor of the truck and world’s largest manufacturer of heavy and medium trucks, recently announced that they would be joining forces in a one-of-a-kind combination to commercialize highly automated trucks (SAE Level 4) on U.S. roads. This acquisition, combined with Torc’s expanding commercial capabilities and additional strategic partnerships, is contributing to Blacksburg’s growing national reputation for technology prowess. This livable, high-tech community is home to hundreds of innovative technology firms, specializing in information technology, unmanned systems, biosciences, advanced manufacturing and more. The region is free from brutal commutes and high housing costs found in many tech hubs. Once the acquisition is complete, Torc will be part of the newly established Autonomous Technology Group—part of Daimler Trucks’ global effort to put highly automated trucks onto the roads within a decade. Torc will remain a separate entity, retaining its name and expanding its team, existing customer base and facilities in Blacksburg.
“A larger team will position us to meet the growing demand of our customers in the self-driving space and engage the trucking market. We are a passionate, tightly-knit team, motivated to save lives and transform transportation. We are looking forward to adding new Torc’rs.” – Michael Fleming, CEO of Torc
Torc’s current job openings include positions in active sensing and information fusion, self-driving behaviors, path planning, systems engineering, vehicle safety and testing, senior-level management, planning and operations. The forthcoming two-story building, which will accommodate the surge of new employees, will include offices, community rooms, garage bays and parking. It is expected to be completed by March 2020.
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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.
Loan Repayment

Student Loan Repayment Program to Attract Graduates to Floyd

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Floyd County, VA – Talent Attraction Program (TAP) enables recent graduates to participate in a loan repayment program if they choose to reside in Floyd County. The purpose of the program is to encourage graduates from 2018 and later to live in the Tobacco Region and replaces the previous 4-year loan forgiveness program. By requiring specific credentials, community involvement, and jobs in fields that are currently experiencing a workforce shortage, TAP can better recruit talent to meet the needs of the community. TAP now provides larger individualized awards that provide up to $12,000 annually, with a minimum of a two-year commitment, and the opportunity for award renewal with the repayment funds maxing at $48,000.
“This is an excellent opportunity for recent college graduates from the region seeking jobs in these fields. It is also a great boost to new or existing businesses in Floyd County in attracting talent.” – Lydeana Martin, Community and Economic Development Director
Within the parameters of the program and specific to Floyd County, recent graduates can work for companies like:
  • Hollingsworth & Vose
  • Citizens Telephone Cooperative
  • Crenshaw Lighting
  • Wall Residences
  • Carilion Clinic
  • Tri Area Health Center
Other eligible work includes teaching in STEM or Career and Technical fields in Floyd County Public Schools, which is in the process of upgrading and reimagining the Floyd County Career and Technical Education Center for the New Economy as the Collaboration & Career Development Center. To read more about TAP and its eligibility requirements, click 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.
cnbc

Virginia Named Top State to Do Business in 2019

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New River Valley, VA – CNBC ranks the Commonwealth of Virginia as the overall #1 state to do business in 2019. All 50 states are put through a rigorous test, scoring each state on more than 60 measures in 10 overarching categories. Then each category is weighted based on how often the state uses that category as a selling point in their economic development marketing materials. This ensures that the states are only being assessed on the attributes they use to promote themselves. The criteria for scoring was developed using existing business and policy experts, official government sources, and the input from the individual states. The 10 categories of evaluation include:
  1. Workforce
  2. Economy
  3. Infra-structure
  4. Cost of Doing Business
  5. Quality of Life
  6. Education
  7. Technology & Innovation
  8. Business Friendliness
  9. Access to Capital
  10. Cost of Living
Not only did Virginia rank #1 overall, but the state also received the top spot in workforce and education. Educational attainment of workforce, number of available employees, and net migration of college-educated workers are all considered when calculating the workforce category, which is allocated the largest sum of points, 450, of all 10 categories. The state’s concentration of STEM workers, workforce productivity, and even union membership and right-to-work laws are also considered. In the category of education, which is slotted for up to 175 points, the number of higher education institutions as well as the test scores, class size, and spending of K-12 schools is calculated. Another notable ranking for Virginia, is the 3rd place score in the category of business friendliness. Business friendliness is also awarded 175 points and looks at the legal and regulatory climate of the state and the economic freedom for business individuals. Learn more about the categories and grading system here or check out the list of all 50 states and their rankings here. For those searching for a beautiful place to live and do business, Virginia’s New River Valley provides both a small-town atmosphere and an innovative, collaborative and business-friendly culture. It also offers a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. With magnificent mountains, cutting-edge research, and exceptional arts, entertainment, and education — Virginia’s New River Valley is quite simply, A Natural Fit.
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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.
Volvo Trucks

Volvo Group to Create 777 New Jobs in Pulaski County Expansion

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Company to invest nearly $400 million to expand heavy-duty truck manufacturing operation Dublin, VA — Governor Ralph Northam today announced that the Volvo Group will invest nearly $400 million to expand its Volvo Trucks North America New River Valley (NRV) assembly operation in Pulaski County. Major components of the investment include a new 350,000-square-foot building that will ultimately house truck cab welding operations; an expansion of the existing plant to allow for further improvements to the facility’s paint operations and overall material/production flow; and a variety of equipment upgrades, including installation of several state-of-the-art dynamometers for vehicle testing. Volvo considered sites in multiple other states for the expansion project, which will create 777 new jobs within approximately six years.
“As the leading private employer in the New River Valley, Volvo Trucks has been a bedrock of this community for more than forty years and has fueled the regional economy. The company’s decision to grow its footprint in the Commonwealth not only recognizes the strength of our manufacturing sector, but also reflects the skill of our workers, the quality of life in rural Virginia, and the competitiveness of our business climate.”
    – Governor Ralph Northam
This announcement represents one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia, and I am confident that this expansion will both prepare the NRV plant for continued success and solidify Volvo’s presence in Pulaski County for decades to come.” Volvo Trucks provides complete transport solutions for customers, offering a full range of medium to heavy duty trucks. Customer support is secured via a global network of 2,100 dealers and workshops in more than 130 countries. Volvo trucks are assembled in 15 countries across the globe. In 2018, more than 127,000 Volvo trucks were delivered worldwide. Volvo Trucks is part of Volvo Group, one of the world’s leading manufacturers of trucks, buses, construction equipment, and marine and industrial engines. The Group also provides solutions for financing and service. Volvo Trucks’ work is based on the core values of quality, safety, and environmental care. The Volvo Trucks facility in Pulaski County is its largest in the world, with 1.6 million square feet on nearly 300 acres and 3,500 employees. “Volvo’s historic investment in an additional facility and upgraded, state-of-the-art equipment at its Pulaski County operation signifies the plant’s future growth, and we are honored to further strengthen Virginia’s corporate partnership with Volvo Trucks North America,” said Secretary of Commerce and Trade Brian Ball. “With its access to markets, robust workforce, and pro-business climate, the New River Valley is a hub for manufacturers from around the world. This investment will position Volvo’s NRV plant for long-term growth and is a testament to the Commonwealth’s competitive advantage.” “This investment will give our employees the tools they need to continue providing our customers the highest quality products,” said Franky Marchand, Vice President and General Manager of the NRV plant. “We’re very grateful to the Commonwealth of Virginia, Pulaski County, and the citizens in this community for their continued support of our business and our people. Creating more value-added processes through these investments is good for our employees, our plant, and our region.” The Virginia Economic Development Partnership worked with Pulaski County, the General Assembly’s Major Employment and Investment (MEI) Project Approval Commission, and Onward New River Valley to secure the expansion for Virginia. The Volvo Group will be eligible to receive post-performance MEI custom grant payments totaling up to $16.5 million over 10 years, based upon achieving its pledged net new job creation and investment commitments. New job creation will be on top of the baseline employment level of 3,219 in place when project negotiations began in 2018. The company is also eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development. “The Pulaski County Board of Supervisors and the Economic Development Authority are most excited to partner with the state to comprehensively support Volvo Trucks and the exceptional men and women who work there with this monumental expansion project, and we are ever confident that their investment and job growth will go a long way to ensuring this company continues to operate and prosper here in our community,” said Chair of the Pulaski County Board of Supervisors Andy McCready.
“This announcement is one of the largest capital investments in the history of Southwestern Virginia and it says a tremendous amount about the confidence and trust the Volvo Group has in the Commonwealth, in Pulaski County, in their dedicated workforce, and in the economic development professionals that helped make this project possible.” – Andy McCready
“Volvo Trucks represents the largest private employer in the New River Valley, and I am proud that the Commission could support the company’s continued growth in Virginia,” said Senator Frank Ruff, Chairman of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “This monumental project will enable the company to add nearly 800 new jobs to its existing workforce, creating opportunities for citizens of Pulaski County and the region and further strengthening the Commonwealth’s position as a leader in automotive manufacturing. We thank Volvo for its commitment to Virginia and for being a key source of job creation and investment in our economy.” “The NRV assembly plant is Volvo Trucks’ largest manufacturing facility in the world, and the company’s decision to reinvest in this operation is a significant win for the region and for the Commonwealth,” said Delegate Nick Rush, Vice Chair of the MEI Project Approval Commission. “With support from our local, regional, and state economic development partners, the company has been able to grow in Pulaski County for decades, and we are confident that this major investment will ensure that Volvo Trucks remains a critical employer in the New River Valley for years to come.” “Volvo Trucks’ continued investment and creation of new jobs is a huge opportunity for the hard working people of Southwest Virginia and the New River Valley,” said Senator Benton Chafin. “I want to thank Volvo Trucks for their commitment to the region and seeing the value of reinvesting in the regional workforce and economy. Volvo Trucks is a critical community partner and with the creation of nearly 800 manufacturing jobs, their investment is another step forward in creating a more thriving and diverse regional economy.”
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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.”