As a result of advanced training and education, combined with a vast diversity of skill sets, Virginia's workforce is one of our greatest assets, and one of the Virginia business community's greatest advantages. For example:

• Virginia ranks in the top 10 in labor productivity.
• At nearly 4.3 million, the Commonwealth’s prime working population, ages 16-64, ranks 7th in the nation.
• Virginia experienced a net in-migration of more than 243,000 people from 2000 to 2005.
• More than 502,000 students are enrolled in over 93 in-state institutions of higher education.
• Nearly 25,000 doctoral scientists and engineers reside in Virginia, one of the highest concentrations in the nation.

In order to prepare our workforce for future industry needs, Virginia has a comprehensive Workforce Development System.  Along with local and regional partners, the following agencies all play a part in assisting Virginia businesses with their workforce needs. 

• VDBA’s Virginia Jobs Investment Program
• Virginia Economic Development Partnership
• Virginia Community College System
• Virginia Employment Commission
• Virginia Department of Social Services
• Virginia Department of Rehabilitative Services
• Virginia Workforce Network, Workforce Centers, & Workforce Investment Boards
• Four Year College/Universities
• Local High Schools
• Local Career & Technical Education Schools
• Local, Regional & State Economic Development Professionals
• Regional, State, and Local Employment Service Providers
• Manufacturing Technology Center

Please visit our Business Resource Center for more workforce development-related resources.