Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing | Official Podcast Series

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Somic America in Wytheville, Virginia, a leading supplier to the automotive manufacturing market. Somic America specializes in the engineering, design, and manufacturing of high-quality ball joints for suspension and steering systems and rotary dampers for seat and tailgate applications. 

With more than 35 years serving the North and South American automotive markets, Somic America combines manufacturing, machining, assembly, and rapid design-change capabilities to support vehicle safety, reliability, and comfort. Tune in to learn how this Southwest Virginia manufacturer is helping keep vehicles performing at their best. 

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Somic America in Wytheville, Virginia—the North American headquarters of SOMIC Packaging, a global leader in end-of-line packaging machinery.

Known for designing and manufacturing innovative case packing systems, Somic America helps companies across the food, beverage, consumer goods, and pharmaceutical industries improve efficiency through flexible, automated packaging solutions. Their advanced technology supports manufacturers around the world while creating high-quality careers right here in Southwest Virginia.

Join us as we explore how Somic America combines German engineering, American manufacturing, and a commitment to innovation to help customers solve complex packaging challenges and prepare for the future of manufacturing.

Somic America: www.somicamerica.com

Learn about SVAM membership

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight XCal Tools in Bristol, Virginia—a manufacturer specializing in high-performance cutting tools and precision tooling solutions for a variety of industries.

From custom tool design to advanced manufacturing processes, XCal Tools helps customers improve efficiency, quality, and productivity. Their commitment to innovation, precision, and customer service has made them a trusted partner for manufacturers seeking reliable tooling solutions.

Join us as we explore how XCal Tools combines technical expertise, skilled craftsmanship, and a dedication to continuous improvement to support manufacturing success both locally and beyond.

XCal Tools: www.xcaltools.com

Learn about SVAM membership

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we spotlight Wolf Hills Fabricators in Abingdon, Virginia—a leading provider of structural steel fabrication serving commercial, industrial, and infrastructure projects across the region and beyond.

Known for their commitment to quality, precision, and craftsmanship, Wolf Hills Fabricators transforms raw steel into the critical components that support everything from buildings and bridges to complex industrial facilities. We explore how their skilled workforce, advanced fabrication capabilities, and customer-focused approach have made them a trusted partner in the construction industry.

Tune in to learn how this Southwest Virginia manufacturer is helping build the structures that keep our communities and economy moving forward.

Wolf Hills Fabricators: www.wolfhillsfab.com

Learn about SVAM membership

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we visit West River Conveyors in Oakwood, Virginia—a company building custom conveyor systems and heavy-duty conveyor components for industries that keep the world moving.

From underground mining operations to overland material handling systems, West River designs and fabricates the equipment that helps transport coal, aggregates, sand, gravel, salt, potash, and other essential materials safely and efficiently.

We explore how conveyor systems work, why they matter, and the role Southwest Virginia manufacturing plays in supporting industries like construction, energy, infrastructure, and agriculture. Along the way, we take a closer look at the engineering, fabrication, and problem-solving that go into building systems designed for some of the toughest industrial environments.

🎧 Listen now to learn how one Southwest Virginia manufacturer helps keep critical supply chains moving.

West River Conveyors: www.westriverconveyors.com

Learn about SVAM membership

Peyton Spencer didn’t set out to work in manufacturing—but an internship quickly changed everything.

In this episode of How I Got Here: Manufacturing, Peyton shares how a communications major turned into a dynamic career spanning marketing, quality control, data analysis, HR, and process improvement. Along the way, she discovered the wide range of opportunities available in modern manufacturing—and found a role that fits her skills and passions.

From building social media campaigns to improving processes on the factory floor, Peyton’s story highlights the value of staying open to new opportunities and being willing to learn along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered how people actually find their way into manufacturing—or if there’s a place for your skillset in the industry—this episode is a great place to start.

Visit https://swvam.org/careers-in-manufacturing to learn how to start your journey!

Welcome to the Q1 2026 edition of the SVAM Member News Update, your quarterly look at the latest developments across Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing community. 

In this episode, we highlight major investments in advanced manufacturing and additive technologies, including a $6 million regional initiative aimed at creating new jobs and strengthening the talent pipeline. We also celebrate AQ Transformer Solutions for completing the VALET global trade accelerator program and share updates on VFP, Inc.’s continued expansion, supported by new workforce development funding.

On the SVAM side, we recap a strong start to the year, including the 7th Annual Women of Manufacturing Symposium, the launch of a new podcast series spotlighting award winners, and expanded student outreach efforts reaching over 600 students across the region. Plus, updates on leadership training through the TOpX Leadership Lab and additional workforce development programs.

🎧 Tune in to stay informed on the people, programs, and progress shaping manufacturing in Southwest Virginia.

📩 SVAM members: Want to be featured in the next episode? Send your updates to [email protected].

Interested in becoming a member of SVAM?

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

Trainings: https://swvam.org/trainings/

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

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

In this wrap-up episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we reflect on the 2026 Women of Manufacturing Symposium and the Outstanding Women of Manufacturing series, highlighting the many career paths that make up Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing industry.

From administrative support and production to leadership roles, this episode brings together the key themes from across the series and explores how these roles connect to keep manufacturing moving forward. You’ll also hear perspectives from symposium panelists Peyton Spencer of Hitachi Energy and Erin Kirk of Westlake Royal Building Products, who share insights on career pathways, workforce skills, and the evolving opportunities within the industry. Together, these stories offer a broader look at what manufacturing looks like today—and the people who make it possible.

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we highlight the Management category from the 2026 Outstanding Women of Manufacturing Awards, presented during the Women of Manufacturing Symposium in Abingdon, Virginia.

Management roles in manufacturing go far beyond titles—they connect people, processes, and performance. From overseeing production and guiding engineering teams to managing supply chains and supporting employees, these leaders help keep operations running smoothly while planning for the future. This episode recognizes award recipient Judy Lewis of XCal Tools, along with nominees from across Southwest Virginia whose leadership is shaping the region’s manufacturing workforce and strengthening their organizations.

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we highlight the Hourly and Production category from the 2026 Outstanding Women of Manufacturing Awards, presented during the Women of Manufacturing Symposium in Abingdon, Virginia.

From machine operation and quality inspection to logistics and safety, production roles are where materials are transformed into finished products. These careers require skill, precision, and teamwork—and they play a direct role in ensuring quality and efficiency across manufacturing operations. This episode recognizes award recipient Betsy Talbert of Universal Fibers, along with nominees from across Southwest Virginia who are making an impact through their hands-on work and technical expertise.