BUILT ON WORK ETHIC, POWERED BY EDUCATION
Wise County is home to a workforce built on generations of hard work—and ready for the demands of tomorrow. With strong K–12 performance, targeted career training, and higher education institutions that partner directly with employers, our community delivers the talent you need to grow.
Wise County public schools are among Virginia’s best, with high achievement and high graduation rates (up to 97%). Recent Niche.com rankings highlight:
- #12 District with the Best Teachers in Virginia
- #11 Best School District for Athletes
- #16 Best School District in Virginia
Students also graduate with job-ready skills thanks to the Wise County Career-Technical Center (WCCTC), which offers hands-on training in:
- HVAC and electrical
- Drafting and automotive
- Welding and building trades
- Cybersecurity and more
Quick Facts
Higher Education That Aligns with Industry
Wise County is home to two strong institutions committed to building a competitive, skilled workforce:
University of Virginia’s College at Wise
The only branch of the world-class University of Virginia, located right here in Southwest Virginia.
- Offers 30+ majors and minors in business, science, healthcare, and the arts
- Partners directly with employers to align programs to workforce needs
- Connects students to internships, career pathways, and local job opportunities
Mountain Empire Community College (MECC)
Delivers technical training in high-demand fields like welding, machining, and industrial maintenance
- MECC Workforce Solutions offers custom, tech-focused training for businesses, plus credit, non-credit, and distance learning options
- Center for Workforce and Innovation in Appalachia (CWIA) provides specialized training in
- Organizational and individual productivity
- Technology skills including cybersecurity, networking, technical certifications, or customized applications
- Job-specific technical skills including manufacturing and trade skills, logistics and transportation, health and wellness, CPR, OSHA, and many more
Employers and employees in Wise County benefit from active partnerships that bridge talent and opportunity:
Virginia Career Works
- One-stop hub for job seekers and employers
- Offers job matching, resume support, training referrals, and regular hiring events
- Supports entrepreneurs with business workshops and labor market data
Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM)
- Promotes a strong manufacturing workforce
- Provides online development tools, networking, and industry-aligned resources