U.S. Representative Morgan Griffith

The Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has awarded the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Area Consortium, whose board is based in Radford, Virginia, a $2,000,000 grant for workforce development. The funding will support the training of 450 individuals and help 75 businesses access a developed workforce and/or related services. In response to this grant notice, U.S. Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) issued the following statement: “A strengthened workforce in Southwest Virginia produces better opportunity. “This ARC grant for $2 million helps the New River/Mount Rogers Workforce Development Area Consortium develop a talent pool that benefits growth in our regional workforce and local economy.” BACKGROUND Project “POWERing Pathways: Advancing Southwest Virginia’s Workforce” will expand access to training programs for roughly 450 people. These opportunities will serve businesses and employees throughout Bland, Carroll, Floyd, Giles, Grayson, Montgomery, Pulaski, Smyth, Washington and Wythe Counties. The talent pool in the Cities of Bristol, Galax and Radford will also receive support. ARC will collaborate with community partners and advance relationships in high-demand employment sectors related to health care, manufacturing and skilled trades. ###