Nearly 250 attendees enjoyed a full day of breakout sessions focused on effective workforce collaboration models to grow talent.
The first annual Virginia Workforce Symposium was convened at the Virginian Hotel in Lynchburg on April 14-15, 2025.
The Virginia Workforce Association hosted the event for nearly 250 workforce professionals in coordination with staff of the Central Virginia Workforce Development Board and the CVPDC. BWX Technologies was a major sponsor, which provided company leaders an opportunity to highlight recent contracts spurring new job openings and manufacturing growth in Central Virginia.
The Honorable Larry Taylor, Mayor of the City of Lynchburg, welcomed the full room of attendees and inspired them to serve those who are turning their lives around and want to find meaningful employment. His personal workforce testimony touched the hearts of professionals and set the tone for an action-packed day of presentations focused on opening up more opportunities for individuals who want to grow.
“We’re proud that Lynchburg is serving as the backdrop for the first-ever statewide workforce symposium, and I congratulate you on this sold-out event,” Mayor Taylor said. “Our city has long been a place where hard work, innovation, and community come together—and we know those same values are at the heart of the work that each of you do every day,” he added.
This first year symposium focused on opportunity, innovation, and collaboration, as well as Virginia’s investments in:
- Youth workforce programs,
- Entrepreneurship and on-the-job training,
- Partnerships with colleges and training providers, and
- Business programs that are committed to creating pathways for every employee to succeed.
It was announced at the close of the event that the 2nd annual symposium will be held in Harrisonburg next year.
Lynchburg Mayor Larry Taylor kicked off the event with a heartfelt speech.
Mark Morton, Senior Manager of Talent Acquisition at BWXT, welcomed attendees at an opening reception sponsored by the company.
