09/25/2025 | News release | Distributed by Public on 09/25/2025 09:46
Virginia's Talent Accelerator Program has been ranked number one in the nation by Area Development Magazine. The top rating comes close on the heels of similar accolades by Business Facilities magazine. The Talent Accelerator Program is a workforce initiative created by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System.
"Our community colleges are committed to helping more Virginians learn the skills and earn the credentials they'll need to be successful in our growing and dynamic economy," said VCCS Chancellor David Doré. "Our Strategic Plan, Accelerate Opportunity, provides measurable goals to increase workforce and career training programs, and we're excited to play our part in making Virginia the state where families and businesses can thrive," Dr. Doré added.
"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," said Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. "Virginia doesn't follow, we lead, and our Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is leading the nation in workforce training," added the governor.
Since launching in 2019, the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program has helped secure more than 17,000 announced jobs across Virginia.
Area Development and Business Facilities are leading executive magazines covering issues related to corporate site selection and expansion. In addition to the top ranking in workforce training, Virginia ranked No. 7 overall in Area Development's Top States for Doing Business report, moving up two spots from last year.
"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," said VEDP President and CEO Jason El Koubi. "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.
You can read Governor Younkin's September 24 news release.