$6.2M in new Virginia funding aims to train workers for trades, tech and aviation jobs
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VIRGINIA - Millions of dollars in new state funding are headed to job training programs across Virginia, with a focus on preparing students and workers for careers in skilled trades, technology, aviation and emerging industries.
What we know:
Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin announced $6.2 million in Growth and Opportunity for Virginia (GO Virginia) grants, supporting 10 workforce and economic development projects across the Commonwealth.
State officials say the funding will help expand job training pipelines, support small businesses and strengthen regional economies. The projects are expected to leverage an additional $4 million in outside investment.
The grants support partnerships between school divisions, community colleges, universities and employers, aimed at aligning training with real-world job needs.
MCLEAN, VA - FEBRUARY 24, 2025: Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin speaks during a special announcement where he unveiled a new support resource package for federal workers and promoted Virginia's over 250,000 open jobs, reaffirming that Virginia is op
Where the money is going
Projects funded in this round span much of Virginia, including:
- Northern Virginia
- Central Virginia
- Hampton Roads
- Southwest and Southern Virginia
- The Roanoke and New River Valley regions
Northern Virginia projects focus on reskilling and upskilling workers for high-demand roles tied to technology, life sciences and federal contracting.
What kinds of jobs are targeted
According to the state, the funding prioritizes training for:
- Skilled trades, including electrical, HVAC, carpentry, plumbing and industrial maintenance
- Technology and AI-related fields
- Aviation maintenance
- Advanced manufacturing
- Life and health sciences
- Entrepreneurship and small business development
Some programs will introduce students to career pathways as early as middle school, while others focus on career switchers and adult workers.
CHARLOTTE, VERMONT - JULY 21: An electrician, right, and technicians from a heating, ventilation and air conditioning company, or HVAC, left and center, prepare the Mitsubishi condenser/compressor they will use to connect a residential heat pump syst
Northern Virginia spotlight
Several grants specifically impact Northern Virginia, including projects aimed at:
- Training workers for high-demand tech roles
- Supporting life sciences and digital health careers
- Helping job seekers adapt to changing federal hiring practices
- Expanding employer-connected training and internship opportunities
State officials say these efforts are designed to keep Northern Virginia competitive in a rapidly changing job market.
Why you should care:
Virginia leaders say the funding is meant to address workforce shortages while helping residents access higher-paying, in-demand jobs — often without requiring a traditional four-year degree.
Since 2022, the GO Virginia program has supported:
- The creation or expansion of more than 2,000 businesses
- The generation of 25,000 jobs
- Training programs that have served tens of thousands of Virginians
What's next:
The funded projects will roll out over the coming months, with additional updates expected as programs expand and accept participants.
A full list of funded projects is available through the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.
The Source: This article was written using information from the Office of Governor Glenn Youngkin and the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.