Virginia’s prowess in business is no fleeting affair. It’s a legacy. CNBC’s Top States for Business rankings placed the Commonwealth second overall in July 2023, a striking follow-up to its number-one standings in past years (2007, 2009, 2011, and 2021). This track record speaks volumes, positioning Virginia not as an occasional frontrunner but as a powerhouse in the American economic landscape.
So, whether you’re a student looking for part-time work or a professional who is looking for a change of career, Virginia has a wealth of job opportunities.
Let’s explore some of the industries that are on the rise in the state. One of them might be the ideal fit for your career aspirations.
The Aerospace Industry
Virginia’s skies are more than just blue; they’re brimming with the promise of industry and innovation. According to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, the state is a beacon for aerospace aficionados and builders of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) because the past decade has witnessed 68 high-flying aerospace projects plant their flags in Virginia soil, translating to over 4,200 jobs and an infusion of $850 million in capital.
This constellation of activity not only underscores the Commonwealth’s commitment to space-bound ventures but also paints a clear trajectory for professionals aiming to reach new heights within the aerospace sector.
The Shipping Industry
Virginia’s shipping industry, particularly around the bustling Port of Virginia in Norfolk, presents a tide of job opportunities for students and professionals alike. The port, having completed timely expansions right before the Covid-19 pandemic, now serves as a linchpin for global trade – converting an initial surge into steady traffic.
This maritime momentum is powering economic ripples, with local colleges launching logistics-centric programs and businesses flocking to dock at this hub of commerce.
Furthermore, towering warehouse developments are emerging to accommodate the lucrative flow of goods, signaling robust career prospects on Virginia’s horizon.
The Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Industry
Virginia’s life sciences sector is undergoing a renaissance, with pharmaceutical manufacturing at its heart. Suzanne Clark of the Virginia Economic Development Partnership speaks of “significant momentum,” evidenced by more than 1,400 jobs sprouting from 20 announced industry projects in a span of three years—ushering in investments topping $1.2 billion.
Pharmaceutical titans like Merck and AMPAC Fine Chemicals, alongside rising stars such as Civica and Phlow, are crafting everything from life-saving insulin to advanced active ingredients needed by biotech pioneers. Plus, the opening of Granules Pharmaceuticals’ new hub near Manassas fortifies Virginia’s position as a key player in the healthcare arena.
The Data Center Industry
Did you know that the cluster of data centers in Northern Virginia is three times the size of the next-largest data center area on the planet (which is located in Singapore)?
As traditional office spaces hollow out and vacancy rates climb to 20%, these humming data hubs enjoy a mere 2% void. Jobs at data centers are fueling local economies through increased tax intake. For those eyeing careers in tech infrastructure, Virginia’s landscape is ripe with opportunity.
The Cybersecurity Industry
Virginia has claimed its place as a national leader in the cybersecurity sector, setting a standard for excellence and innovation.
Bolstered by its proximity to federal agencies, the state is at the sharp edge of addressing cyber challenges. It’s not merely the strategic location that fortifies Virginia’s leadership but also its rich ecosystem of information technology resources and esteemed higher education institutions dedicated to nurturing the next cadre of cybersecurity experts.
This combination of advantages endows Virginia with unparalleled capabilities in forging a safer cyber future while offering a wealth of career opportunities for aspiring defenders in the digital realm.
Events
