Charlottesville, Va. – February 6, 2024 – Piedmont Virginia Community College (PVCC) plays an integral role in the Commonwealth of Virginia economy by preparing students for further academic study and providing valuable workforce training. A recent study conducted by Lightcast, a global leader in labor market analytics, highlights the College’s economic contributions and shows how PVCC creates a significant positive impact on the community and major stakeholder groups in the College’s service area, which includes the City of Charlottesville and Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa and Nelson Counties.

“The economic impact study confirms what we value as the community’s college. Every day we make a difference in the lives of our students and in our communities—and we add economic value to our region,” shared PVCC President Jean Runyon.

Economic Impact

According to data and analysis, in FY 2021-22, PVCC added $183.7 million in income to the PVCC service area economy, a value approximately equal to one percent of the region’s total gross regional product (GRP). Expressed in terms of jobs, PVCC’s impact supported 2,433 jobs. More than 80 percent of Virginia’s community college students live and work in Virginia after graduation; PVCC alumni generated $149.6 million in added income for the regional economy during the timeframe of the study.

Good Returns
A PVCC education delivers good returns on student’s commitments of time and tuition. The average associate degree graduate from PVCC will see an increase in earnings of $12,900 each year, compared to someone with a high school diploma working in Virginia. The wage increase alone means an increase in impact of daily spending in the economy.

Workforce Needs

PVCC helps close workforce gaps by responding to changes in the economy and job markets. With a focus on career paths, job training and the employment needs of area businesses, PVCC awards certificates and degrees that can lead directly to employment in high-demand fields ranging from welding to healthcare. PVCC collaborates with regional employers to identify market trends and fill specific niches in the regions workforces.

The results of the study show that PVCC creates value from multiple perspectives. Learn more at pvcc.edu/economic-impact.

About Lightcast
Lightcast provides trusted global labor market data, analytics, and expert guidance that empowers communities, corporations, and learning providers to make informed decisions and navigate the increasingly complex world of work. With a database of more than one billion job postings and career profiles, the team provides best-in-class customer service with robust data, clear analysis, and expert guidance on skills, jobs and opportunities. For more information, visit www.lightcast.io.

About Piedmont Virginia Community College

Established in 1972, Piedmont Virginia Community College is a nonresidential two-year institution of higher education that serves Central Virginia – principally, residents of the City of Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Buckingham, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, and Nelson. PVCC is one of 23 community colleges in Virginia that comprise the Virginia Community College System. PVCC is committed to providing access to a college education for all who can benefit, an opportunity for each student to reach her/his potential and excellence in all programs and services. Visit www.pvcc.edu.