Energy Star Rankings

The NRV Ranked No. 8 Energy Star Small City

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , /by

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (commonly known as Virginia’s New River Valley) was ranked the number 8 Energy Star small city of 2018.

The NRV has a long history of being a good steward with natural resources and protecting the environment. The people of the NRV have a deep connection with nature and are committed to preserving the region, especially because the resources (like the New River) are so fun to use.

Energy Star Rankings

Top 10 Energy Star Cities of 2018 (Small MSAs)

1. Midland, TX
2. Odessa, TX
3. Greenville, NC
4. Jackson, MI
5. San Angelo, TX
6. Sioux City, IA
7. Junction City, KS
8. New River Valley, VA
9. Santa Fe, NM
10. Martinsville, VA

The top cities were determined by looking at how many Energy Star certified buildings were in each MSA (metropolitan statistical area).

Energy Star certified buildings are more energy efficient than most of other similar buildings in the U.S. Energy Star buildings have saved more than $4.5 billion since 1999.

For more information about the rankings, visit Energy Star.

###

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.

NRV Top Posts of 2018

NRV Ranked No. 6 Top Job Market of 2018

/0 Comments/in , , , , , , , /by

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (commonly known as Virginia’s New River Valley) keeps topping charts. The NRV was ranked the number 6 top job market of 2018 by Zippia.

The rankings were determined by looking at unemployment rate, unemployment rate change, and wage change.

Top 10 Job Markets of 2018:

1. San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA (Silicon Valley area)
2. San Luis Obispo-Paso Robles-Arroyo Grande, CA
3. Odessa, TX
4. Midland, TX
5. Charleston-North Charleston, SC
6. New River Valley, VA
7. Florence, SC
8. Ann Arbor, MI
9. Waterloo-Cedar Falls, IA
10. Roanoke, VA

The rankings considered 386 metro areas of varying sizes. For more information on the rankings, visit Zippia, “The Career Expert.”

This ranking was also used by USA Today.

Looking for work in the NRV? Start with the Job Opportunities tab under Live Here.

Header photo: Excella, agile tech firm, Blacksburg

###

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.

virginia tech engineering

Virginia Tech College of Engineering Moves Up to #13 in U.S.

/0 Comments/in , , /by

BLACKSBURG, VA – The Virginia Tech College of Engineering rose one spot in the U.S. News & World Report Best College Rankings. The college is now number 13 among all national engineering programs.

virginia tech engineering

The college still holds the number 9 spot among public universities.

“We continue to be sought after by the best and brightest future engineers, seeing a 20 percent increase in applications this year,” said Julia M. Ross, the Paul and Dorothea Torgersen Dean of Engineering. “The college is poised to fulfill our land-grant mission and responsibility to fuel the pipeline of a globally astute, diverse workforce and academic leaders. It all starts with shaping young minds.”

Virginia Tech continues to be a huge asset in the NRV, helping to produce a steady pipeline of talent for our area.

The U.S. News & World Report rankings are based on peer assessment, retention rates, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources, graduation rates, and alumni giving.

For more information about the ranking, visit the Virginia Tech News post.

###

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.

NRV video

Virginia’s New River Valley Video Receives Incredible Organic Response

/0 Comments/in , , , , , /by

VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Onward New River Valley released a video to aid in the cultivation of the regional brand at the organization’s annual dinner Thursday, Sept. 20. The video organically hit 1,000 shares and over 56,000 views in about one week on Facebook alone. It also reached over 128,000 people.

The social response to the video is overwhelmingly positive. Some of the comments on the Virginia’s New River Valley Facebook post include:

  • “Don’t come here to change this place… come here to let this place change you!!”
  • “Best place I ever lived! I miss it every day!!”
  • “Ok so looks like I’m moving there”
  • “Makes me feel homesick. Excellent representation in the video. Job well done”

    • The video, which was made with Nightfire Productions, is resonating with people who love the New River Valley and reaching those who may be hearing about it for the first time.

    “It’s important to note that this initial response was garnered completely organically,” said Onward NRV Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack. “This means we didn’t pay for any sort of advertising. People are going out of their way to share it, which means they like it. It means we were able to capture the culture of Virginia’s New River Valley through the video. Now it’s easier not just for us, but also for people, businesses, and organizations to share this great place with the world.”

    The overwhelming response is proof that place attachment is an important concept in economic development. Place attachment is an emotional connection a person has to a certain place. The goal of the video is to foster a sense of place attachment for Virginia’s New River Valley and the response is proof that it’s working.

    “A primary goal of economic development is to influence people to choose one community over another. Whether it’s a company looking to relocate or an individual considering a move, an emotional connection to a place can positively affect that decision. This video helps capture the feeling of why so many people have chosen to live, work, and do business in Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope people throughout the NRV will continue to help share the video and use it to showcase what is so special about our region.”

    Footage in the video includes businesses, towns, scenic hot spots, and local favorites around the region. The full list of locations is posted on the video webpage.

    For more information about the video or Onward NRV, please contact Marketing Manager Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

    ###

    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.

    New River Valley Video

    Onward NRV Releases New Regional Video

    /0 Comments/in , , , , , , /by

    NEW RIVER VALLEY, VA – Onward New River Valley is proud to release a brand new video showcasing the unique culture and assets of Virginia’s New River Valley.

    The New River Valley video, which was created with Nightfire Productions, is a culmination of input from people and companies all over the NRV. It encompasses the culture of our area, while showcasing some of the unique assets in the region.

    The video features the Virginia’s New River Valley branding created with Eddy Alexander, which Onward NRV has been working to rollout over the past year. The video is the latest effort to cultivate and nurture the brand.

    “We’re incredibly proud to release the New River Valley video,” said Onward NRV Executive Director Charlie Jewell. “This video expresses and adds to the emotional attachment that people have to the NRV. It was created as a concerted effort to effectively brand Virginia’s New River Valley. We hope you enjoy what we believe is an excellent representation of the NRV and that you share it with everyone you know.”

    Like the video? Make sure everyone sees it by sharing on Facebook, Twitter, or LinkedIn!

    For a complete list of locations in the video, or to embed it on your site, visit the video web page.

    For more information, contact Onward NRV Marketing Manager, Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org.

    Virginia Tech Football Entrance

    Virginia Tech Ranked the #1 Most Electric Entrance in College Football

    /0 Comments/in , , , , /by

    VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – Locals know how rowdy Lane Stadium gets, but the news has gotten out. The Virginia Tech Hokies stadium entrance to Metallica’s Enter Sandman was ranked the #1 Most Electric Entrance in College Football by Fanbuzz.

    The entire stadium, from the band, to the student section, to people who are probably too old to do it, jump in unison to as the song builds to its climax. The Hokies’ football team walks from their locker room to the stadium, files into the narrow tunnel, and bursts onto the Lane Stadium field. It’s electric, it’s crazy, and it’s our favorite entrance in all of college football.

    Other universities mentioned include Miami, South Carolina, and Clemson, but Virginia Tech took home the number one spot.

    To see the full ranking, visit Fanbuzz.

    ###

    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.

    Unmanned Systems Conference Blacksburg NRV VA

    National Unmanned Systems Symposium to Take Place in NRV

    /0 Comments/in , , /by

    BLACKSBURG, VA – The Ridge & Valley chapter of the Association for Unmanned Vehicle Systems International (AUVSI) will host their second annual conference on October 9-10 in Blacksburg, VA to explore the state of unmanned systems technology, education, and research.

    Peter Kunz, Ph.D., the Chief Technologist at Boeing HorizonX, will be the keynote speaker at the symposium.

    The event will focus on the theme, “At the Intersection.” Main event programming will occur on the Virginia Tech campus in Blacksburg at the Inn at Virginia Tech. Local tours and other activities will be off-campus in the Blacksburg area.

    The theme represents the progress in unmanned systems technology and the challenges and opportunities increasingly appearing at the intersections of fundamental areas: human with machine; sensing with control; open architecture with secure software and communication; air with land and sea.

    “I’m so excited for ‘At the Intersection,’” said Nanci Hardwick, CEO of Aeroprobe and President of AUVSI Ridge & Valley. “Our second annual event is coming after the extreme success of our first event, which brought attendees and speakers from all over the country and was regarded as a highly organized event that delivered a lot of value to participants. ‘At the Intersection’ is another great opportunity for unmanned systems professionals to learn more about the current state of the industry. Plus, it calls attention to all the fantastic companies and assets we have here in the New River Valley.”

    The event will feature plenary speakers, interactive panels, and demonstrations by leaders from industry, government, and education. Activities will include networking, recruiting opportunities, and tours of area unmanned systems facilities.

    Abstract submissions and registration for the event are still open.

    Contact

    For more information visit www.auvsiridgeandvalley.org/events or contact Abigail Hammack at abigail@onwardnrv.org. Follow AUVSI Ridge & Valley on Facebook and Twitter.

    About AUVSI Ridge & Valley

    The Ridge & Valley chapter of AUVSI seeks to advance unmanned systems at the regional level, and to help drive publicity and awareness for the region as a resource for technical expertise. Additionally, the chapter seeks to bring more unmanned systems companies and jobs to the area, while working with local colleges and universities to develop educational and workforce development needs.

    ###

    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.

    first residential drone delivery

    First Residential Drone Delivery Completed in Montgomery County

    /0 Comments/in , , , /by

    Virginia’s New River Valley – Two-year-old Jackson Smith from Montgomery County received a very special delivery last Tuesday: a popsicle. But this popsicle was inside what is considered the most advanced drone package delivery in America.

    After the Smith family clicked “Confirm Order” on an app, a drone flew 1.4 miles from a simulated “store” to deliver the goods. Instead of the drone touching back down in a residential area, it lowered the package using a tether. According to Bloomberg the whole process took about six minutes.

    The demonstration was conducted by Wing, a subsidiary of Google, a Virginia Tech’s Mid-Atlantic Aviation Partnership. It was an FAA-approved test under the U.S. government’s Integration Pilot Program.

    Wing hopes to commercially launch this kind of program in the future.

    For more information, check out coverage from Bloomberg or the Roanoke Times.

    ###

    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.

    Eastern Divide Brewing Blacksburg NRV

    Eastern Divide Brewing Coming Soon to Blacksburg

    /0 Comments/in , , /by

    Add another name to your list of hot spots in Virginia’s New River Valley, because Eastern Divide Brewing arrives in Blacksburg in Spring 2019.

    According to the Roanoke Times, Eastern Divide will have the same head brewer as Rising Silo, a Farm Brewery in Montgomery County. Eastern Divide’s new facility will be 12,000 square feet. This space includes outdoor seating and an event space for 200 guests.

    Eastern Divide won’t start by distributing beer, but focusing on tasting room sales instead. According to the Eastern Divide website the purpose of the brewery is “to provide a space for the community around us to celebrate, connect, and grow.”

    The new brewery will serve many offerings that are brewed on site in addition to serving local food. They also expect to have an exciting program of events to celebrate and grow the community in the NRV.

    Eastern Divide Brewing adds to the list of great breweries and wineries in the NRV that can be found on the food and drink page.

    For more information about Eastern Divide, check out the recent coverage by the Roanoke Times, or the Eastern Divide website.

    ###

    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.

    NRV number 17 best college town

    NRV Named #17 Best College Town by AIER

    /0 Comments/in , , , , /by

    VIRGINIA’S NEW RIVER VALLEY – The Blacksburg-Christiansburg-Radford MSA (known as the New River Valley) was ranked the number 17 best college town in America (2017) by the American Institute for Economic Research. The NRV is home to over 40,000 students thanks to Virginia Tech, Radford University, and New River Community College.

    NRV best college town
    “It should come as no surprise that Virginia Tech supplies Blacksburg with high levels of innovation. In terms of bars and restaurants, ask any Tech student and they’ll tell you to head downtown to T.O.T.S., Gillie’s, or Sharkey’s for some amazing brews and grub. The MSA of Blacksburg also includes Radford University, a key player in the regional economy.”

    AIER compiled the Best College Town results based on economic, demographic, and quality of life data points. Each “college town” has a population of less than 250,000.

    AIER also gave the NRV the number 3 ranking for bars and restaurants.

    Virginia Tech and Radford University often receive accolades and top rankings for their academic programs and fun atmospheres. Most recently, Virginia was ranked as the #15 Best College Tailgate in the U.S.

    For more info about the other college rankings, visit AIER.

    ###

    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.