NRV School Divisions Receive State Grants to Improve Trades Programs

New River Valley – ABC13 News recently reported that Montgomery County and Pulaski County each received a portion of a $3 million onetime competitive state grant for enhancing their career and technical education skill trades programs.

The Virginia General Assembly approved the grant to support programs offering industry recognized credentials and certificates for in-demand skilled trades programs. 24 schools were selected for the grant, each receiving $125,000 to help lead students into skilled trades and encouraging them to pursue credentials and certifications.

Virginia Superintendent of Public Instruction Lisa Coons said, “In Virginia and across the nation there are high-paying jobs in the skilled trades that go unfilled due to a shortage of qualified applicants.” She thanked the General Assembly for recognizing the need to prepare more young people in the skilled trades fields.

Montgomery County will purchase welding equipment and provide teacher training for the Governor’s STEM Academy. Pulaski County will use the funds to upgrade automotive technology, electricity, and engineering programs at Pulaski County High School.

Read the full story here.

Read the press release here.

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.