SW Virginia News

Congressman Morgan Griffith (R-VA) has revealed that the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) has granted $453,743 to Virginia Tech for their initiative titled "Setting Appalachia's Workforce on Track to Adapt to the Changing Construction Industry". This funding will enable Virginia Tech to embark on a comprehensive project that includes the development of a training roadmap, workforce gap analysis, and a plan for large-scale implementation. The primary objective of this undertaking is to support the emerging field of industrialized construction.

Griffith expressed his enthusiasm about the investment, stating, "This investment by ARC is great news, as it will help Virginia Tech better understand what is needed to develop the growing field of industrialized construction. This project could lead to a more skilled construction workforce and increased economic development in Southwest Virginia."

Industrialized construction is an innovative approach that aims to enhance productivity and efficiency by incorporating mechanization and automation. By embracing these technologies, the construction industry can improve its overall performance and adapt to the changing demands of the sector.

The funding provided by ARC will enable Virginia Tech to conduct extensive research and analysis to identify the skills and knowledge required for the industrialized construction domain. Through the development of a training roadmap, the university will be able to equip future construction workers with the necessary expertise to thrive in this evolving field.

Furthermore, the workforce gap analysis will help Virginia Tech identify the current gaps in the construction workforce and determine the steps required to bridge them. By addressing these gaps, the university can contribute to the development of a well-rounded and competent construction workforce in Southwest Virginia.

The plan for large-scale implementation is a crucial aspect of this project. Virginia Tech aims to create a comprehensive strategy that can be replicated and implemented on a broader scale. This will enable other regions to benefit from the knowledge and expertise gained through the project, fostering economic development and growth in the construction industry beyond Southwest Virginia.

The funding provided by ARC demonstrates the recognition of the importance of industrialized construction and its potential to revolutionize the construction industry. By investing in this project, ARC is not only supporting Virginia Tech but also contributing to the advancement of the construction sector as a whole.

In conclusion, Congressman Morgan Griffith's announcement of the $453,743 grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission to Virginia Tech for their construction workforce project signifies a significant step towards developing the field of industrialized construction. With this funding, Virginia Tech will be able to conduct valuable research, identify workforce gaps, and create a roadmap for training in this emerging sector. The project has the potential to enhance the skills of the construction workforce and stimulate economic development in Southwest Virginia and beyond.

To find out more, go to this link: https://morgangriffith.house.gov/news/documentsingle.aspx?DocumentID=402942