CarMax Inc., a Goochland County-based retailer of used cars, has been named by IDG's Computerworld magazine as one of the 100 Best Places to Work in Information Technology in 2008. This was the first year CarMax placed on the list.

The list is compiled based on a questionnaire regarding categories such as benefits, diversity, career development, training and retention. In addition, Computerworld conducts surveys of IT workers and factors their responses into the rankings.

"Our unique culture includes a commitment to developing our associates by offering exceptional training and recognition programs," said Richard Smith, senior vice president and chief information officer of CarMax.

Nearly 20 percent of IT workers there have obtained the company's Certified CarMax Analyst designation, which focuses on business processes, technical skills and leadership traits.

Also, 90 percent of the IT leadership has been with CarMax more than five years, and 77 percent has been with CarMax more than 10 years.

CarMax operates 97 used-car superstores in 45 markets. During the fiscal year that ended Feb. 29, the retailer sold 377,244 used cars to consumers and sold 222,406 vehicles at in-store wholesale auctions.

Other Virginia companies to make the list were Booz Allen Hamilton Inc., BAE Systems and The Mitre Corp., all of McLean, and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association in Arlington County.