On the inaugural episode of the “Connect with County Leaders” Podcast, Fairfax County Executive Bryan Hill speaks with Victor Hoskins, President and CEO of the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (EDA). The episode covers business developments in the county, EDA updates, and ongoing efforts to bring equity, diversity and productivity to the region.
“What Amazon did was... (give) a kind of an open door or an awareness moment, an aha moment, for folks around the country, that there is a really growing, strong technology environment here.” -Victor Hoskins, Fairfax County EDA
The conversation highlights strategic efforts by Fairfax County leadership to ensure the region continues to thrive. With a focus on diversification, support for businesses, equity and access, coupled with partnerships and infrastructure to accommodate growth, the region is poised for continued success.
Key Takeaways
- Diversification is essential for success: Diversity of businesses, industries and talent is crucial to continued economic growth. Fairfax County leaders are focused on diversification in emerging tech and other industries, and are making efforts to attract young, talented individuals to the area.
- Support for business growth is at the forefront: Fairfax County is working to support businesses that require talent for specialized technology jobs. This includes building more housing to accommodate the influx of workers needed and supporting talent initiatives such as Northern Virginia's certification programs to train people to enter the tech industry.
- Accommodating job creation through the reuse of buildings: The reuse of buildings, such as data centers, has been successful in creating economic development opportunities.
- A commitment to equity and access: The One Fairfax initiative, which aims to promote equity and access for all, is an essential part of Fairfax County's strategic plan and economic success.
- Emphasis on quality of life: County leaders are focused on attracting young people to areas that feature walkable communities with easy access to shops and restaurants, making Fairfax County an attractive place to live and work.
- Strategic partnerships: Fairfax County leadership recognizes the vital role of partnerships in supporting local businesses and creating a strong economic climate. Efforts such as the Founders Fund and work on investing in properties throughout the region, are examples of strategic partnerships working towards economic growth.
Underpinning all of these efforts is Fairfax County's first-ever strategic plan, with 10 overarching goals aimed at being more strategic and less transactional. One of the key goals is to develop access and equity for all, and economic diversification through its economic engines in Northern Virginia.
PODCASTS
The “Connect with County Leaders” podcast, hosted by County Executive Bryan Hill, is a monthly opportunity to meet and connect with Fairfax County leaders, hear the latest county news and information, and learn more about specific Fairfax County programs and services. It is available in both audio and video. Listen to past episodes of “Connect with County Leaders” on the county’s SoundCloud, or watch the podcast in video form on the county’s YouTube channel.
For other Fairfax County podcasts, visit www.fairfaxcounty.gov/podcasts, and for additional audio content, tune in to Fairfax County Government Radio at www.fairfaxcounty.gov/radio.
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