Onward NRV Hosts 4th Annual NRV Experience

Onward New River Valley kicked off their annual NRV Experience summer internship program on Thursday, June 15th. Eleven employers in the New River Valley have enrolled 51 interns to participate in the fourth annual NRV Experience.

The participating interns will spend the next several Thursdays exploring Floyd County, Giles County, Pulaski County, the City of Radford, and Montgomery County through excursions designed to highlight each community. Onward NRV collaborates with local tourism directors and economic developers from each of the communities to showcase the region’s amenities to the interns.

Throughout the seven-week program, interns will also participate in career development sessions taught by professionals from around the region. The topics this year are from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) Competencies for Career Readiness and can include career and self-development, communication, critical thinking, equity and inclusion, leadership, professionalism, teamwork, and networking.

The NRV Experience is a summer curriculum is designed to support employer internship programs by providing opportunities for interns to experience the full benefits of living and working in the New River Valley. The goals of the program are to increase the number of young professionals living and working in the NRV post-graduation, expose participants to the wide variety of cultural, recreational, and outdoor amenities available in the region, and provide interns with professional development training. Through this program, Onward NRV helps employers build an effective talent pipeline in the NRV’s Advanced Manufacturing, Information Technology, Unmanned Systems, and Food Processing & Agribusiness industries.

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.