NRV Experience 2024 Interns Explore Virginia’s New River Valley

Onward NRV recently hosted the 2024 NRV Experience internship program. The NRV Experience, celebrating its fifth year, is designed to attract and retain graduates from local colleges and universities and to add value to local summer internships by promoting the region as a desirable place to live, work, and play.

The NRV Experience works in collaboration with the local tourism directors and economic developers from each of the communities to showcase the region’s amenities for the interns. During each excursion, the locality representatives spoke to the interns about the exciting and unique amenities available in their community. Interns also had the opportunity to participate in professional development sessions and virtual lunch and learns to enhance the skills they will need in their chosen profession. The excursions, held throughout June and July, were designed to highlight each one of the New River Valley’s five localities.

6/20: Pulaski County | Communication | Water Activities at Mountain2Island Marina on Claytor Lake

6/27: Giles County | Mental Wellness | Water Coloring on the Lawn at Mountain Lake Lodge Adventure Center

7/11: Montgomery County | Volunteering | Games at the SuperBowl

7/18: Floyd County | Team Work and Critical Thinking | Art Classes at Floyd Center for the Arts

7/25: City of Radford | Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion |Float the New River at Bisset Park

Through NRV Experience excursions, interns experienced just a few of the amenities available to them if they choose to live and work in Virginia’s New River Valley after graduation.

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.