Research center opens in Bedford County

The ribbon was cut Thursday to open the acclaimed Center for Advanced Engineering and Research in Bedford County amid an atmosphere of enthusiasm.

 The project, anchored by years of regional collaboration, has come to fruition and a crowd of more than 100 with many public officials and business leaders in attendance came to marvel at the new 30,000-square-foot facility.

“This ribbon cutting holds the promise of jobs and opportunity for people in our region for years to come,” said Del. Kathy Bryon, R-Campbell County, adding the opening was not a typical event.

“It’s meant to be an economic engine for the region,” said Bill Guzek of the CAER board of directors. “This is just the beginning.” 

A nonprofit organization within Virginia’s Region 2000 Partnership, the center is set to create relationships with high-tech industries, major research and development centers and university researchers. It will also provide professional development for scientists and engineers.

Babcock & Wilcox, Areva, Innovative Wireless Technologies and University of Virginia have secured space there for research.