Commonwealth secures top spot in Business Facilities 2023 State Rankings Report for Virginia Talent Accelerator Program

In a notable triumph for the state of Virginia, Governor Glenn Youngkin announced on June 26, 2023, that the Commonwealth has been ranked as the number one state in the United States for Customized Workforce Training, according to the 19th annual Business Facilities State Rankings Report. This ascension marks a significant achievement for the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program, which held the second spot in the same category in 2021 and 2022.

Business Facilities, a leading national publication that has been guiding corporate site selectors and economic development professionals for over half a century, recognized the accomplishments of the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program in this latest report.

Governor Youngkin acknowledged the vital role the program plays in driving economic development in the state. “The Virginia Talent Accelerator Program enhances our competitiveness to win major projects and prepares Virginians with in-demand, marketable skills,” he commented.

Secretary of Commerce and Trade, Caren Merrick echoed these sentiments, emphasizing how this recognition reinforces the program’s crucial role in attracting and retaining businesses in diverse industries and regions across the state.

Launched in 2019, the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is a workforce initiative designed by the Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), in collaboration with the Virginia Community College System and other higher education partners. The program, which provides fully customized recruitment and training services to new and expanding companies, has been instrumental in securing over 11,000 jobs across Virginia.

Anne Cosgrove, Business Facilities Editorial Director, praised Virginia’s progress: “Virginia takes the lead this year, based on continued notable successes to attract and retain business.”

Jason El Koubi, VEDP President and CEO, confirmed that the Program’s mission was to become the leading customized workforce solutions program in the nation within four years of its launch. Today’s recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Virginia Talent Accelerator team. The team is committed to further expanding the program’s impact, ensuring that Virginia continues to lead in attracting and training the talent essential to the success of new operations.

More information on the Virginia Talent Accelerator Program is available here.