Consultants Forum Advertise
Subscribe
Close

  • Free for qualified executives and consultants to industry

  • Receive quarterly issues of Area Development Magazine and special market report and directory issues

Subscribe Now
Renew

Area Development - Site Selection, Facility Planning and Workforce Development

TECHnista Plans Pittsylvania County, Virginia, Training-Tech Operations

09/23/2024
TECHnista, an education consulting company specializing in curriculum development for K-12 programs in defense and advanced manufacturing industries, plans to establish operations in Pittsylvania County, Virginia. The more than $1.5 million project is expected to create 15 jobs.

The company’s new National Training and Technology Center will be located at the Ringgold East Industrial Park and will support the implementation of a five-year federal contract with the U.S. Department of Defense’s office of Innovation Capability and Modernization.

"Our mission at TECHnista goes beyond building a successful business—we are committed to innovating K-12 education and strengthening local and national manufacturing workforce pipelines,” said Kelsey Robertson, TECHnista Founder and CEO. “We are excited to bring our K-12 manufacturing education solution to fruition in Pittsylvania County. “We feel confident that this region’s commitment to growing small businesses will play a key role in our success. We are deeply honored to have been offered support from Pittsylvania County, the Commonwealth of Virginia, and Governor Youngkin. This award will serve as a catalyst to inspire the next generation of talent and create sustainable, high-quality jobs that will drive the region's future growth.”

In addition to DoD’s IBAS Program funding, Governor Youngkin approved a $50,000 grant from the Commonwealth's Opportunity Fund to assist Pittsylvania County with the project. TECHnista is eligible to receive state benefits from the Virginia Enterprise Zone Program, administered by the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development.

“Virginia’s advantages for the advanced manufacturing industry are a major reason why TECHnista decided to locate in Pittsylvania County,” noted Secretary of Commerce and Trade Caren Merrick. “This facility illustrates why the Danville area is such a strong location for manufacturers.”

The Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP) worked with Pittsylvania County and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance to secure the project.

“The southern Virginia region's commitment to workforce development over the past decade has clearly borne fruit, with substantial progress in supporting the local school system, students, and employees,” added Linda Green, executive director of the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance. “It's only fitting that these efforts would give rise to an entrepreneurial venture with the potential to impact students nationwide. The owners of this venture have played a crucial role in expanding skills and fostering an appreciation for manufacturing, not just at the K-12 and community college levels, but also within the Department of Defense and its specialized training programs. It's truly meaningful to witness them establish a business aimed at contributing to national workforce solutions, especially in the Danville/Pittsylvania area, where they've already set a high standard of excellence. This new venture is a testament to their dedication and the region's growing reputation as a hub for workforce innovation.”

Exclusive Research