Onward NRV officially launched the 2026 NRV Experience on Thursday, June 11, with a Kick-Off Event hosted at Long Way Brewing. The event featured a welcome from Talent and Business Strategies Manager Laken Blankenship and a professional development session led by Katie Beach of Mojo Leadership Group, focused on team building. Interns had the opportunity to connect with one another, learn strategies for building meaningful professional relationships, and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere to kick off their summer in the New River Valley.
The NRV Experience is an eight-week immersive summer program designed to enhance employer internship programs by providing both professional development and memorable regional experiences. Interns participate in excursions across the New River Valley and receive weekly training from regional professionals on topics such as communication, emotional intelligence, and leadership.
This year’s schedule of events includes:
Thursday, June 18 | 2:00–6:00 PM
Mountain2Island @ Rock House Marina
Thursday, June 25 | 2:00–6:00 PM
Center for the Arts at Virginia Tech
Thursday, July 2 | 12:00–1:00 PM
Zoom
Thursday, July 9 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Mountain Lake Lodge
Thursday, July 16 | 2:00–6:00 PM
Floyd Center for the Arts
Tuesday, July 23 | 2:00–6:00 PM
Tubing the New River at Bisset Park
Friday, July 31 | 4:00–6:00 PM
The Maroon Door
Onward NRV’s goal for the NRV Experience is to help attract and retain talent in Virginia’s New River Valley by highlighting the unique advantages of living and working in the region. Learn more about the NRV Experience here.
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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.
