Interstates 81 and 77 intersect in the heart of the VIAA region, with I-77 stretching North through Bland into West Virginia, and stretching South to Fancy Gap into North Carolina; while I-81 stretches through the region from just North of the Tennessee state line, through Marion into Wytheville and Fort Chiswell. Two major interstates traversing the region allow for prime access to three fourths of the U.S. population in a day’s truck drive, as well as access to three major ports on the East Coast – Norfolk, Virginia; Charleston, South Carolina; and Savannah, Georgia.
Our greatest feature is our people. With industry-leading credentialing programs, state-of-the-art training facilities, and a collaborative commitment to develop and maintain a strong workforce pipeline, our region boasts a motivated, experienced, and dedicated workforce. With access to the world-class engineering institute – Virginia Tech – and to advanced training programs in welding, machining, and mechatronics at the Southwest Virginia Manufacturing Center of Excellence, our people are eager to learn from some of the best in the business.
With a focus on the future, the top priority of our leaders is to develop and maintain high-quality infrastructure to support existing industry, and to attract new industry to our region. We understand the importance of proper access to quality transportation systems, top-quality supplies of electricity, water, broadband and other necessary utilities, and access to quality sites and buildings. From shovel-ready sites and a quality workforce, to reliable utility services from major utility providers like Appalachian Power, we have it all in our region.
Industry is strong because our region is strong. Home to internationally recognized companies, successful mid-sized enterprises, and innovative start-ups, our region is committed to supporting industry regardless of size. With a rich heritage in agriculture and a strong manufacturing base, the region is currently composed of the following sectors: Plastics and Advanced Materials, Food and Beverage Processing, Automotive Equipment Manufacturing, and Logistics and Warehousing.
