Onward NRV’s Talent and Business Strategies Manager, Laken Blankenship, and Investor Relations and Development Coordinator, Mary Denson, recently represented the organization at two major career events: the Virginia Tech Engineering Expo and Radford University’s Fall Career & Internship Fair.
Both events provided valuable opportunities to connect with hundreds of students and young professionals exploring internships and full-time career opportunities. Throughout the fairs, Laken and Mary shared a variety of resources highlighting the New River Valley’s quality of life, local employers, in-demand careers, and diverse opportunities for students and emerging talent.
Among these resources was a newly developed Hot Jobs List, featuring regional employers actively seeking emerging talent for internship and entry-level positions. Students were also introduced to Onward NRV’s talent resources, including the Roots in the Valley newsletter and LinkedIn group, NRV Talent Network, helping them stay informed about job and internship openings, career events, and networking opportunities across the region.
To showcase the benefits of living and working in the New River Valley, Laken and Mary also shared the region’s Cost-of-Living Calculator and newly launched Livability Guide. These tools provide insight into the area’s affordability, outdoor recreation opportunities, community culture, and overall quality of life.
At the Radford University Fall Career & Internship Fair, Laken and Mary were joined by members of Onward NRV’s newly launched Brand Ambassador Program. Kyleigh Mills and Caleb Laws, both Radford University students and alumni of the NRV Experience Program, spoke with fellow students about their experiences living and working in the region. As NRV Brand Ambassadors, they shared firsthand perspectives on why the New River Valley is an ideal place for young professionals to build their futures.
Participation in career fairs across the region supports Onward NRV’s strategic goal of connecting emerging talent with local opportunities while helping employers build the workforce needed to support the New River Valley’s continued growth and success.
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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.
