Where Talent and Opportunity Meet
Henrico offers a skilled, ready workforce backed by strong educational investments and a business climate built for growth.
#1 State
for Education / Ranked by CNBC in 2025
700,000+
workforce in the greater Richmond region
#1 State
for Customized Workforce Training / Ranked by Business Facilities in 2025
45.7%
of residents 25 years and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
$114 Million
Henrico’s recent investment in career and technical education
450+
Colleges and universities within 150 miles
Empowering Your Future Workforce
In Henrico, education serves as a powerful launchpad for economic development and innovation. Our public schools and 40+ top-tier universities, colleges, and technical schools within a short drive provide businesses with access to a steady flow of skilled, career-ready graduates.
Foundations for Lifelong Success
Henrico County Public Schools (HCPS) develops a skilled, career-ready workforce through strong academic programs, early career exploration, and specialized training. Students with clear interests in fields such as engineering, technology, health sciences, or the arts can apply to a high school Specialty Center, where advanced courses provide a focused learning environment tailored to their goals. These centers—housed within the division’s comprehensive high schools and select middle schools—allow students to dive deeper into subjects they’re passionate about. For an even more immersive career-path experience, HCPS operates three state-of-the-art Advanced Career Education (ACE) Centers, offering intensive, hands-on training in high-demand trades, emerging technologies, and essential workplace skills. Dual-enrollment opportunities further give students a head start on earning college credits while still in high school.
A Skilled Workforce to Meet Today’s Demands
In Henrico, we believe a strong community starts with a strong workforce. That’s why our region’s community colleges and vocational schools offer high-quality programs for both first-time students launching their careers and returning learners upgrading their skills. From healthcare and advanced manufacturing to information technology, skilled trades, and business, these institutions deliver the certifications, training, and hands-on experience today’s employers need.
Cultivating Talent Through Education
Henrico is home to a robust higher education ecosystem that delivers a highly educated, job-ready workforce. Public and private universities, colleges, and specialized institutions in the region produce graduates in business, engineering, healthcare, IT, the sciences, and the arts. These schools work closely with industry to align programs with workforce needs, offering research partnerships, internships, and experiential learning opportunities that prepare students to step into meaningful roles from day one—giving companies locating or expanding in Henrico immediate access to top-tier talent and a pipeline that supports long-term growth and innovation.
Universities
Continuing Education Opportunities
Henrico provides opportunities for adults to advance their careers and develop new skills through flexible education and training programs. Designed for working professionals, career changers, and returning learners, these programs offer certifications, professional development, and practical experience tailored to evolving industry needs. By supporting lifelong learning, Henrico ensures businesses have access to a versatile, continuously upskilled workforce capable of meeting the changing demands of today’s economy.
Recruitment and Workforce Training Resources
Henrico EDA collaborates with local partners to help companies attract, retain, and develop top talent. From customized training and skills development to recruitment support, these resources help businesses address staffing challenges and strengthen employee capabilities—ensuring a skilled workforce ready to support growth and success.
Community College Workforce Alliance (CCWA)
CCWA serves as a key resource for the reater Richmond region, connecting businesses with skilled talent and providing individuals with training, advancement opportunities, and access to high-demand careers. Tailored programs create clear pathways that support the needs of employers, employees, and job seekers alike.
Virginia Career Works – Capital Region
Virginia Career Works – Capital Region is a key workforce development network connecting businesses with local talent. The organization provides recruitment support, coordinates job fairs, and offers access to a diverse pool of job seekers across the Metro-Richmond area. Employers can leverage these services to streamline hiring and efficiently meet staffing needs.
Virginia Talent and Opportunity Partnership (VTOP)
VTOP is a statewide initiative that connects Virginia businesses with students seeking work-based learning opportunities. By facilitating internships and other experiential learning programs, V-TOP helps employers build a pipeline of future talent while providing students with valuable industry experience. The program offers resources and support to ensure successful partnerships between businesses and educational institutions.
“Henrico isn’t just a place to do business — it’s a community powered by a dependable, skilled workforce, along with great logistics and a welcoming environment that help companies like ours thrive.”
Masaki Nakagawa
Vice President, San-J International, Inc.
For more information on this topic, contact:
Ebonie Atkins
Managing Director