Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing | Official Podcast Series

This 2025 Southwest Virginia Manufacturing Awards Spotlight episode highlights the incredible story of Chris Viers , General Manager at West River Conveyors and winner of the 2025 Manufacturing Employee of the Year award presented by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing. We share the story that earned Chris this well-deserved honor — from stepping into leadership during a company cris...

In this Q3 2025 edition of SVAM Member News Update , we’re highlighting powerful stories of innovation, leadership, and community from across Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing sector. This episode features: A heartwarming act of support from Hitachi Energy’s Bland facility New national recognition for Simmons Equipment and Wolf Hills Fabricators SVAM member companies competing in the 2025 Virgini...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Thomas Industrial Fabrication , based in Floyd, Virginia —a company known for engineering and fabricating custom machinery and material handling systems that power productivity across industries. Whether it’s building belt and drag conveyors , integrating third-party components, or designing solutions from scratch, Thomas Industrial Fabricat...

In this episode of Why Manufacturing , a podcast from the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM), we talk with Peyton Spencer of Hitachi Energy in Bland, Virginia. Peyton shares how she found her place in manufacturing, the unexpected lessons learned on the job, and the sense of pride that comes from building something that powers the world. From early challenges to big wins, Peyton...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Tempur Production USA in Duffield, Virginia , where some of the world’s most recognized sleep products are made with innovation, precision, and care. As a major manufacturer of Tempur-Pedic mattresses and pillows, the Duffield facility plays a vital role in delivering comfort to customers around the globe. We explore how their team blends cu...

In the second of a two-part-episode of Why Manufacturing , a podcast by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) , we head to Atkins, Virginia to explore the art and science behind one of the world’s most iconic products—the bourbon barrel. Our guest is Josh Chandler , Production Operations Manager at Speyside Bourbon Cooperage , where white oak and open flame are transformed into...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we highlight Thomas Automation Management in Woodlawn, Virginia , a company specializing in advanced automation, engineering, and control systems that drive productivity and innovation across industries. From designing custom automation solutions to improving safety and efficiency on production floors, Thomas Automation is helping manufacturers embrace t...

In this first of a two-part-episode of Why Manufacturing , a podcast by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) , we head to Atkins, Virginia to explore the art and science behind one of the world’s most iconic products—the bourbon barrel. Our guest is Josh Chandler , Production Operations Manager at Speyside Bourbon Cooperage , where white oak and open flame are transformed into...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Tate, Inc. in St. Paul, Virginia —a leading manufacturer known for its innovative raised access flooring and infrastructure solutions that support data centers, cleanrooms, commercial buildings, and more. Tate has made a name for itself by combining precision manufacturing with a strong focus on sustainability, performance, and customer-driv...

In this episode of Why Manufacturing , the podcast from the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) , we talk with Jim Allison , Business Development leader at Simmons Equipment Company in Lebanon, VA. Jim brings over four decades of manufacturing experience, from engineering and plant management to global safety leadership. He reflects on the lessons learned through mergers, mentorsh...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Tadano Mantis , a world-class manufacturer of telescopic boom crawler cranes based in Richlands, Virginia . Known for their engineering excellence, safety innovation, and commitment to quality, Tadano Mantis plays a key role in lifting operations around the globe —from construction to energy and beyond. We explore how their talented team in...

In this episode of Why Manufacturing , the podcast from the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) , we sit down with Lisa Jones , a recently retired HR and safety leader whose 20+ year career left a lasting impact on manufacturing in our region. From her start in sales and staffing to overseeing HR and safety in manufacturing plants, Lisa’s journey is one of growth, resilience, and...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we visit Strongwell’s headquarters in Bristol, Virginia—home to the world’s leading manufacturer of pultruded fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. Discover how this advanced material is replacing steel, wood, and concrete in everything from bridges and cooling towers to railings and building panels. Learn how Strongwell’s innovation is reshaping infrastructure...

Today on Why Manufacturing , we’re talking with Ryan Miller from General Dynamics Mission Systems in Marion, Virginia. Ryan is a Program Manager supporting advanced communications systems for the U.S. military. He’s relatively new to manufacturing but brings a strong background in leadership, logistics, and software systems from his time in the Navy and defense tech sector. In this episode, we’ll...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we head to Glade Spring, Virginia, where the Speyside Bourbon Stave Mill transforms white oak logs into precision-cut staves—the building blocks of bourbon barrels. Discover how this facility supports the bourbon industry by producing high-quality wood components that shape the taste and character of every batch. It’s a story of local craftsmanship, sustainable fore...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we explore the artistry and precision behind bourbon barrel production at Speyside Bourbon Cooperage in Atkins, Virginia. Discover how this facility blends time-honored coopering traditions with modern manufacturing techniques to create the white oak barrels that shape the flavor of America’s signature spirit. From controlled charring to careful construction, every...

In this episode of Why Manufacturing? , we talk with Kelly Boyd, Second-Shift Supervisor at Woodgrain in Marion, VA. Kelly’s journey began in 2013 as a feeder-stacker, and over the past decade she’s worked nearly every position on the line—earning her way to the leadership role she holds today. Kelly shares what it was like trading unpredictable fast-food shifts for steady manufacturing work, the...

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Special T Manufacturing , a custom machining and fabrication company based in Meadowview, Virginia . Known for their precision, reliability, and commitment to customer service, Special T serves a wide range of industries—all while maintaining a strong local footprint in Southwest Virginia. We explore how their team approaches problem-solving...

In this episode of Why Manufacturing? , we talk with Brooke Eskridge , a welder at Utility Trailer Manufacturing in Glade Spring, VA. Brooke shares how she found purpose in the welding bay—skipping college, embracing hands-on work, and building a career with real pride. She walks us through her daily routine, the small wins that add up, and how mentorship shaped her journey. Brooke also opens up a...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we spotlight Simmons Equipment Company, a leader in mining machinery with operations in Tazewell and Lebanon, Virginia. Discover how this innovative manufacturer is designing and building the equipment that makes mining safer, smarter, and more efficient. From battery-powered haulers to high-tech control systems, Simmons is helping shape the future of soft-rock mini...

In this quarterly edition of the SVAM Member News Update , we bring you stories of growth, creativity, and community impact from across Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing sector. Discover how Hapco Pole Products reached the White House, how Somic America is investing in future talent, and how Simmons Equipment is expanding its international footprint. We also highlight sustainability efforts from...

Welcome to Why Manufacturing , a podcast series from the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing , where we share real stories from the people powering our region’s most essential industry. In this episode we sit down with Logan Hicks of Real Performance Machinery to explore what keeps him energized and engaged in his manufacturing career. Logan shares how he went from exploring career optio...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we explore SIG’s Chilhowie facility, where flexible packaging solutions are engineered for a global market. Learn how this advanced manufacturing site contributes to safer, more sustainable packaging for food, beverage, and industrial products. From bag-in-box formats to spouted pouches, SIG is helping revolutionize the way goods are packaged and consumed—all from t...

Welcome to Why Manufacturing , a podcast series from the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing , where we share real stories from the people powering our region’s most essential industry. In this episode, we talk with Levi McKinnon of Real Performance Machinery —a rising talent early in his manufacturing career. Levi walks us through a typical day on the job, shares what surprised him most...

In this episode of MadeInSWVA , we visit Shearer’s Foods in Bristol, Virginia—one of the region’s leading snack food manufacturers. Learn how this bustling facility produces everything from potato chips to tortilla snacks for homes across the country. Discover how a company with humble roots became a powerhouse in private-label snack manufacturing, all while supporting local jobs and committing to...