Branch has been recognized by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) as one of the 2026 Top Virginia Employers for Interns, highlighting the company’s commitment to workforce development, internship opportunities, and career training in the construction industry.
The annual SCHEV award recognizes Virginia employers that provide high-impact internships and work-based learning experiences designed to prepare students for long-term career success. Employers are evaluated on opportunities for hands-on experience, mentorship, leadership exposure, skill development, and pathways to full-time employment.
Branch Group was recognized among top employers in the Southwest and Central Virginia regions, which includes Richmond, Lynchburg, Charlottesville, and Roanoke. The area extends into the Appalachian Mountain range, and the rural communities that dot Virginia’s landscape.
Real-world-get-your-boots-dirty experience
At Branch, interns gain direct exposure to real-world construction operations through experiences in project management, engineering, estimating, safety, field operations, corporate services, and skilled trades. Interns work alongside experienced construction professionals on active projects and are introduced to the culture of ownership, collaboration, and safety that defines Branch.
“Internships are one of the most important ways we invest in the future workforce of our industry,” said Tina Pfalzgraf, Branch chief human resources officer. “We want our interns to leave Branch with real experience, meaningful mentorship, and a clear understanding of the opportunities available in construction and the skilled trades. Programs like this help us develop talent while strengthening the future of our company and our industry.”
The recognition reflects Branch’s broader commitment to workforce development and talent pipelines through internship programs, apprenticeships, mentorship initiatives, and partnerships with schools, universities, and career and technical education programs.
According to SCHEV, more than 91% of recognized employers provide paid internships, while many also support nontraditional pathways for veterans, career changers, and students entering skilled trades and technical careers.
Branch continues to prioritize creating opportunities that help students and emerging professionals build careers in heavy civil construction, commercial construction, MEP contracting, and specialty trades.
