A Labor Pool Sufficient for Present and Future Needs
As of September 2026, the population of Bedford County is estimated at 80,894; this represents an 8.64% increase since 2011 and is expected to rise another 15% by 2040.
However, due to proximity to Roanoke and Lynchburg, the labor force within a 30-mile radius of Bedford is more than 300,000 people.
Nearly 30 percent of the Bedford area workforce is employed in manufacturing, followed by construction, retail trade, healthcare and professional services. Workforce training and other services are readily available through the Virginia Career Works Central Region, regional partners and local community colleges and trade schools in the region. For a list of partners and their services, visit our regional workforce resources page.
You’ll find additional information on Bedford County’s workforce here:
View the Community Profile Labor Market information for Bedford County.
Watch our latest video regarding Career & Technical Education Programs in Bedford County Public Schools >
Bedford ONE
The Bedford ONE Program links high school students with local businesses and industries based on their career interests. It is a partnership between the Bedford County Office of Economic Development, Bedford County Public Schools and area businesses. An advisory committee (made up of teachers, and representatives from the local community college and businesses, as well as Economic Development staff) guides the program.
We also host Career Conversations with people from the business community who talk about their own career path and the education and training needed for their individual roles. To watch these career conversations, visit our YouTube channel. www.youtube.com/user/BedfordEconDev
Union Status
Virginia is a right-to-work state. Right-to-work means an employer can’t make an agreement with a union making membership a condition of hiring or continued employment.
