From Railroads to Research: Roanoke’s Rise as a Bio-Tech Hub

In this episode of The Cardinal: News of Virginia, host Dutchie Jessee dives into Roanoke’s remarkable transformation from a historic railroad city to an emerging leader in the bio-tech industry. Dutchie sits down with Cardinal News technology reporter Tad Dickens to discuss how Virginia Tech’s growing medical school, the upcoming state-of-the-art cancer center, advanced research labs, and Carilion Clinic’s exponential growth have all helped position Roanoke as a bio-tech hub.Together, they explore the region’s shift from its industrial roots to a future driven by innovation and healthcare, and what this means for the city’s economy, workforce, and identity. Don’t miss this insightful conversation on how Roanoke is redefining itself in the 21st century.