Dual Career Program

Virginia Tech recognizes that dual-career considerations are a critical factor in faculty recruitment, retention, and long-term success. Today’s teaching and research faculty are often part of professional partnerships in which both individuals seek meaningful and fulfilling career opportunities. Institutions that thoughtfully address these needs are better positioned to attract exceptional faculty, support their families, and sustain a thriving academic community.

Housed within the Office of the Vice Provost for Faculty Affairs, Virginia Tech’s Dual Career Program provides specialized support for the spouses and partners of teaching and research (T&R) faculty who are navigating employment transitions as part of a faculty recruitment or retention process. The program is designed to offer guidance, resources, and individualized support while setting clear and transparent expectations.

Our Approach

The Dual Career Program offers support, information, and strategic guidance to spouses and partners as they explore employment opportunities and integrate into their new local community. While the program actively assists individuals in identifying and pursuing career pathways, participation in the program does not guarantee employment at Virginia Tech or with external organizations.

Our role is to serve as a knowledgeable partner in the job search process, helping individuals understand the regional employment landscape, refine their materials and strategies, and make informed decisions about next steps.

Program goals

• Strengthen Virginia Tech’s ability to recruit and retain outstanding teaching and research (T&R) faculty
• Support faculty success by addressing the professional needs of their spouses and partners
• Provide personalized, confidential guidance tailored to individual career goals and circumstances
• Foster connections with employers, civic and volunteer organizations, and networking opportunities across the New River Valley and Roanoke Valley regions

Eligibility

Recruitment Support

Dual career assistance is available to spouses and partners of newly recruited teaching and research faculty during the faculty member’s first year of employment at Virginia Tech.

Retention Support

When requested by a department head or dean, dual career resources may be made available to support retention-related needs.

Services and Support

The Dual Career Program provides individualized assistance that may include:

• Guidance in identifying employment opportunities within Virginia Tech, across the New River Valley and Roanoke Valley regions, and other Virginia Tech campuses and locations
• Support in developing effective job search strategies
• Assistance with resumes, cover letters, and other professional documents
• Career exploration and goal clarification
• Job coaching and mock interviews
• Information on networking strategies, professional organizations, and volunteer opportunities
• Relocation and community resources
• Confidential consultation and advising
• Serving as a liaison when appropriate, including outreach and communication with departments or external employers

Recognizing that each individual’s situation and goals are unique, the Dual Career Program works collaboratively with participants to tailor support to their specific needs.

General Resources

Blacksburg, NRV, & Roanoke Resources

Department Heads, Chairs, and Program Directors Resources

Additional Resources