Onward NRV Interviewed on Work Talk Podcast

Onward NRV Executive Director Katie Boswell was recently interviewed for the Work Talk Podcast associated with the New River/Mount Rogers region of Virginia Career Works. Work Talk is a podcast that discusses workforce trends in Virginia’s New River Valley (NRV) and the Mount Rogers region. Host Marty Holiday, Executive Director of the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Board, spoke to Katie and Nichole Hair, Executive Director of the Mount Rogers Regional Partnership, about their individual organizations and goals.

During the podcast, Katie spoke about the launch of Onward 2028, Onward’s new 5-year strategic plan, that builds upon success of the previous 5-year strategic plan in the NRV. She listed the 4 goals of the plan: attract and retain talent to support regional growth, attract business and grow business to stimulate new jobs and investment, market the NRV as a competitive destination for talent and companies and strengthen the connectedness of the region.

Katie also highlighted Onward NRV’s four targeted industries: advanced manufacturing, information technology, food processing & agribusiness, and unmanned systems. She talked about how the need for talent continues to be the largest issue for businesses in the area and that employers are struggling with attracting and retaining talent. In addition, Katie also shared about Onward NRV’s NRV Experience program that connects interns to all that the region has to offer in hopes that the interns will continue to live and work in the NRV post-graduation.

Listen to the full podcast here.

Photo by Jeremy Enns

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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.