The Shadow
CLIFTON FORGE, Va. (VR) – Regional economic leaders convened Thursday, May 22, at Mountain Gateway Community College for an event that offered a sweeping vision of technological transformation and economic potential for the Alleghany Highlands. Technology expert William E. Amos delivered a comprehensive keynote address that challenged local businesses to embrace innovation.
Amos, chair of Go Virginia Region Two, presented a refined roadmap for regional economic development, emphasizing the area’s strategic advantages and untapped potential across multiple sectors. “You’ve got the connectivity, you’ve got the sites, you’ve got the people, you’ve got the resources,” Amos told a packed audience. “It’s your game now.” The presentation centered on several key economic development strategies, with particular focus on emerging technologies, workforce development, and regional collaboration.
Amos highlighted Go Virginia’s target economic clusters, which include bio and life sciences, information technology, transportation autonomy, and advanced manufacturing. Artificial intelligence emerged as a central theme, with Amos presenting both challenges and opportunities. He warned that while AI might disrupt traditional job markets, it also presents unprecedented opportunities for economic growth and innovation. “Most of the people only stay in a job for five years now, and then they’ll switch jobs,” Amos explained, underscoring the importance of continuous learning and skill adaptation in the modern workforce.
Community colleges were positioned as critical infrastructure for workforce training. Amos praised their role in providing certifications and skills development, particularly for working adults seeking to retrain in emerging technological fields. The Highlands’ geographic and infrastructural advantages were prominently discussed. Amos highlighted the Alleghany Highlands’ strategic location, existing fiber infrastructure, proximity to major transportation routes, and potential for becoming a hub for data centers and advanced manufacturing. A significant initiative discussed was the RAMP (Regional Acceleration and Mentoring Program), which provides comprehensive support for entrepreneurs, including funding, office space, and strategic coaching. Amos specifically challenged local businesses to participate, noting that no entrepreneurs from the area had yet engaged with the program.
The event also featured acknowledgments from local officials, including a representative from Delegate Terry Austin’s office, who emphasized the importance of regional collaboration and resource sharing. Go Virginia’s approach focuses on creating infrastructure that supports job creation and economic diversification. The organization’s target clusters aim to generate high-paying jobs that exceed state average wages, with a particular emphasis on emerging technologies and innovative industries.
Amos shared several success stories from the general area, including startups developing innovative solutions in fields ranging from agricultural technology to medical research. He highlighted how communities like the Highlands can compete with traditional tech hubs by leveraging local resources and fostering a culture of innovation.
The keynote address was part of the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce’s Business Appreciation Week, an annual event recognizing local businesses’ contributions to the community. A key message emerged: technological disruption should be viewed as an opportunity rather than a threat. Amos repeatedly emphasized the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and bold thinking in navigating the rapidly changing economic landscape. “If you think about a 30–40-year career, that’s a lot of job changes,” Amos noted. “Now, are you ready for three jobs? Are you getting the right skills? Are you a lifelong learner?”
The event concluded with a call to action for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and community leaders to actively participate in regional economic development initiatives, attend upcoming planning meetings, and explore collaborative opportunities. An upcoming Go Virginia event on June 16 will provide further opportunities for community input into the region’s growth and diversification plan. As the Alleghany Highlands stands at the forefront of potential technological and economic transformation, events like these provide crucial insights and inspiration for sustainable regional growth.
