Virginia’s workforce training program has been named the top program in the United States by Area Development’s Top States for Doing Business report, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced. This recognition places the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program at the forefront of national workforce training initiatives.
The program was also ranked number one in the country by the annual Business Facilities Rankings Report for the third year in a row, confirming its status as a leading model for workforce preparation.
“Virginia doesn’t follow, we lead, and our Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is leading the nation in workforce training,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “For many companies, this program is a major factor in choosing to invest in Virginia, because it provides tailored training that equips employees with the right skills from day one. More Virginians are stepping into the workforce and we’re making sure they are prepared to seize the incredible opportunities available in the Commonwealth.”
Secretary of Commerce and Trade Juan Pablo Segura commented on Virginia’s approach to workforce development: “People are the driving force behind economic growth, and Virginia is setting the pace in equipping workers with the skills needed now and in the future. The Virginia Talent Accelerator is a prime example of how we’re creating a job-ready workforce that gives businesses the certainty they need to put down roots and expand here in the Commonwealth.”
Area Development, an executive magazine focused on corporate site selection since 1965, bases its rankings on surveys of consultants who advise businesses on location decisions.
Beyond workforce training, Virginia improved its overall standing to seventh place nationally according to Area Development’s report. The state saw notable gains in several categories: it rose five spots to fifth place for Access to Qualified Labor; advanced 14 positions to eighth for Energy Availability; and moved up 17 spots to tenth for Corporate Tax Structure.
VEDP President and CEO Jason El Koubi stated: “We are positioning Virginia as America’s top state for talent, and the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is a key differentiator in Virginia’s talent advantage. By collaborating directly with companies to provide fully tailored recruitment and training solutions, we give employers the certainty to grow and thrive in every region of the Commonwealth. Area Development’s acknowledgement of the Talent Accelerator affirms the program’s impact and showcases the dedication of our team to making Virginia the premier destination for business.”
The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program was created by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) alongside the Virginia Community College System, with support from both state government funding sources. It offers customized recruitment and training services at no cost to eligible new or expanding businesses as an incentive for job creation.
Since its launch in 2019, more than 17,000 jobs have been announced through projects supported by this initiative across Virginia. In recent months, companies such as Microporous (Danville), Micron Technology (Manassas), and Eli Lilly and Company have partnered with or benefited from services provided by this program. Eli Lilly recently committed $5 billion toward investment that will create 650 high-wage jobs utilizing support from this initiative.
Further information about these programs can be found on their official website.
