WORKFORCE & TALENT

Employers in the region cite the outstanding work ethic and productivity of the Shenandoah Valley’s workforce as factors for existing industry expansions and new business development.

“Our Virginia workforce today includes both employees with professional business and technical skills, many developed locally through James Madison University, Blue Ridge Community College, and specialized vocational training. ComSonics’ ability to help develop curriculum  content and certificate-based programs has ensured our workforce and business excels” – Bret Harrison, ComSonics, Inc., 2018 Expansion Announcement 

• • Labor force of over 190,000 with an extended labor market of over 310,000
  • Low unionization in a Right-to-Work state
  • Over 11,000 college graduates annually
  • Ten colleges and universities aware of industry and responsive to industry requests
  • Educational attainment of residents:
    • 15.7% have a Bachelor’s Degree
    • 10.6% have a Graduate Degree or higher
    • 7.5% have an Associate’s Degree
  • Virginia incentive programs seamlessly work with local service providers for maximum benefits
  • Virginia Career Works – Shenandoah Valley Region / Shenandoah Valley Workforce Development Board works with employers to fund registered apprenticeship instruction, on-the-job training, incumbent worker training and military to manufacturing partnerships

*based on Lightcast Q1 2024 Data Set

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