Richmond, Virginia – Virginia has achieved the top ranking in the United States for Customized Workforce Training according to the 20th annual Business Facilities Rankings Report, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced earlier this week. This marks the second consecutive year that the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program has been recognized as number one, affirming the state’s commitment to building a skilled workforce tailored to the needs of modern industries.
Governor Youngkin expressed pride in Virginia’s strategic approach to workforce development, emphasizing the critical role of the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program in enhancing the state’s competitive edge. “The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program enhances Virginia’s competitiveness to win major projects and is often the deciding factor on investment in Virginia,” Governor Youngkin stated. He highlighted the multifaceted strategy of building workforce talent through education, attracting talent nationwide with policies like universal licensing legislation, and customizing skills to meet company-specific demands. “Virginians are joining the workforce in record numbers and it’s critically important to ensure our workforce development matches the needs of today while building a workforce for the future.”
Virginia Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Caren Merrick, echoed the Governor’s sentiments, noting that Virginia’s leadership in talent development is powered by exemplary programs like the Virginia Talent Accelerator. Merrick emphasized, “This recognition reinforces that Virginia is a reliable, sustainable business partner, and sends the message that we are the clear choice for new investment.”
The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, spearheaded by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System, is designed to fast-track the start-up processes for new facilities through targeted recruitment and training services. These services are finely tuned to the specific products, processes, equipment, standards, and culture of each company and are offered at no cost as an incentive for job creation, thanks to funding from the Governor’s administration and the Virginia General Assembly.
Since its inception, the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program has played a pivotal role in creating over 13,000 jobs across the state, contributing to major projects with companies like the LEGO Group, Tyson Foods, Inc., Church & Dwight Co., Inc., Tate Inc., Northrop Grumman Corporation, Haleon, Framatome, and Condair Group AG.
Business Facilities’ Editorial Director Anne Cosgrove praised the program’s rapid and effective delivery of services that cater to diverse industry needs. “The breadth and speed with which this VEDP program begins to deliver for companies is a highlight that Business Facilities is pleased to recognize in this year’s ranking,” said Cosgrove. “The capability to provide training for businesses across a variety of industries to meet their specific needs is a feature that stands out with the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program.”
Jason El Koubi, President and CEO of VEDP, highlighted the tailored approach of the program as a key factor in attracting companies to Virginia. “The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is a primary reason why so many companies choose to invest in Virginia instead of any other state,” he noted. El Koubi emphasized the close collaboration with company leaders to determine priorities and deliver customized recruitment and training services, ensuring successful operations from startup to full-scale operation.
This consistent recognition by Business Facilities underscores Virginia’s commitment to maintaining its status as a leader in workforce training and economic development, setting a benchmark for other states aiming to enhance their economic landscapes through skilled workforce initiatives.
