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 with durability, sustainability, and strength—right from Southwest Virginia.

Strongwell: www.strongwell.com 

Learn about SVAM membership

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 talk about what it’s like to step into manufacturing from a different industry, how his military mindset shaped his early success, and what’s surprised him most about working in a fast-moving, high-stakes production environment. Whether you’re curious about program management, defense manufacturing, or what career growth looks like in your first five years—Ryan’s story has something for you.

SWVA Manufacturing Careers (open jobs / updated weekly): swvam.org/mfgcareers

General Dynamics Mission Systems: gdmissionsystems.com

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 forestry, and the quiet art behind bold flavors.

Speyside Bourbon Stave Mill: www.speysidebci.com 

Learn about SVAM membership

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 barrel is a crucial part of the bourbon journey—and it all starts right here in Southwest Virginia. 

Speyside Bourbon Cooperage: www.speysidebci.com 

Learn about SVAM membership

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 mindset that kept her climbing, and how she leads a team that feels more like family. She opens up about mentorship, busting myths about women in manufacturing, and the tools—both physical and mental—that fuel her success.

Whether you’re a student exploring career options, an educator guiding the next generation, or an industry veteran looking for inspiration, Kelly’s story is proof that curiosity, grit, and teamwork can build lasting success.

SWVA Manufacturing Careers (open jobs / updated weekly): swvam.org/mfgcareers

Woodgrain: www.woodgrain.com

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, the pride they take in craftsmanship, and how staying rooted in the community helps drive their success. From one-off custom parts to complex fabrication projects, Special T Manufacturing proves that small businesses can make a big impact.

🎧 Tune in to hear how this Meadowview manufacturer blends technical skill, local pride, and innovation to support industries across the region and beyond.

Special-T Manufacturing: www.specialtmfg.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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 about breaking industry myths, especially as a woman in the trades, and what drives her to keep showing up strong every day.

Whether you’re a student weighing your options or someone curious about the skilled trades, this is a story of resilience, growth, and building something that matters.

SWVA Manufacturing Careers (open jobs / updated weekly): swvam.org/mfgcareers

Utility Trailer Manufacturing Company: www.utilitytrailer.com

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 mining—all from the heart of Southwest Virginia.

Simmons Equipment: www.simmonsequipment.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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 Universal Fibers, infrastructure innovations from Strongwell, and digital tools from Westlake Royal.

Plus, hear how SVAM’s outreach programs—from career signing celebrations to college panels—are helping shape the next generation of skilled professionals. It’s a full roundup of the people, projects, and progress powering our region forward.

SVAM members are invited to submit news for the next episode by emailing [email protected].

Interested in becoming a member of SVAM?

Careers: https://swvam.org/mfgcareers/

Resource Database: https://swvam.org/resource-database/

Become a Member: https://swvam.org/membership/become-a-member/

Hapco: https://www.hapco.com/

Somic America: https://somicamerica.com/

Simmons Equipment: https://simmonsequip.com/

Universal Fibers: https://www.universalfibers.com/

Strongwell: https://www.strongwell.com/

Westlake: https://www.westlakeroyalbuildingproducts.com/

Lennie Gail Mitcham's service recognition

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 options to finding a true sense of purpose in problem-solving, hands-on work, and continuous learning. He walks us through a typical day on the job, debunks common myths about the industry, and reflects on the mentors and moments that have shaped his journey so far.

Whether you're a student considering your future, a parent curious about career paths, or an educator guiding the next generation, Logan’s story is a powerful example of how manufacturing offers growth, pride, and opportunity—right here in Southwest Virginia.

SWVA Manufacturing Careers (open jobs / updated weekly): swvam.org/mfgcareers

Real Performance Machinery - www.rpmachinery.com