Onward recently hosted a multi-day event focused on Decoding Data Centers for its investors and local elected officials.
In collaboration with Hurt & Proffitt, the event began with a dinner for local officials at the Highlander Hotel in Radford that featured a keynote and a panel discussion. Attendees had the opportunity to learn about how the industry is impacting Virginia and communities in the Commonwealth.
Keynote speaker Vince Barnett of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership spoke about how the rise in technology usage from streaming services, healthcare, education, and more has created a demand for data centers worldwide. Vince broke down the different types of data centers, the financial impact, site selection factors, and strategies for considering attracting data center development.
Vince then joined the panel to answer questions about job creation, regional benefits, utility usage, and misconceptions. Panelists also included Bryan Rothamel of Culpeper County, Alex Gottschalk of Mecklenburg County, and Tim Reynolds of Hurt & Proffitt.
The educational program continued the following day with breakfast and lunch at the University Club of Virginia Tech, featuring panel discussions and keynotes sponsored by Hurt & Proffitt and SEGRA.
Participants heard from panelists Vince Barnett of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Whitney Czelusniak of Appalachian Power, and Matt Conrad of TRACT. They answered questions focused on site development and construction that covered tax exemptions, land use, utility costs, water usage, and project timelines.
A panel on community benefits provided insights into the advantages of data centers, the challenges, how to put up guardrails for the data center industry, how to determine if the industry is a fit for your community, marketing around misinformation, and a variety of other questions. Panelists included David Manley of Wythe County and Alex Gottschalk of Mecklenburg County.
The event wrapped up after lunch with a keynote from Chris Lloyd of McGuireWoods Consulting discussing the national and statewide legislative outlook on data centers.
Onward NRV was honored to host this event to help educate and bring understanding about the data center industry to Virginia’s New River Valley. They also would like to say a special thank you to the title sponsor, Hurt & Proffitt, and event sponsor, SEGRA, the panelists, and keynote speakers for making the event possible.
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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.