Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing | Official Podcast Series

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 cutting-edge technology with quality craftsmanship, the importance of teamwork on the production floor, and how the company continues to grow and invest in the region.

If you’ve ever wondered what goes into making a world-class mattress—or what it’s like to work for a leading global brand based in Southwest Virginia—this episode delivers a behind-the-scenes look.

Tempur Production: www.tempursealy.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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 precision-crafted barrels that help shape the flavor of bourbon around the world.

Josh walks us through a typical day at the cooperage while sharing insights on safety, leadership, team development, and continuous improvement. We also talk about career growth in manufacturing, breaking industry myths, and what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on production environment.

Whether you’re a bourbon fan, a job seeker, or just curious about how things are made, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and processes behind the barrel.

🎧 Listen now to hear how craftsmanship meets innovation in Southwest Virginia.

 🔎 Search "#MadeInSWVA" on your favorite podcast platform to find us.

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 the future of smart manufacturing. We discuss their approach to problem-solving, the role of automation in modern industry, and how a dedicated team in rural Virginia is supporting global manufacturing excellence.

If you're interested in engineering, technology, or the future of manufacturing, this episode offers a powerful look behind the systems that keep industries moving forward.

Thomas Automation Management: www.tamincusa.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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 precision-crafted barrels that help shape the flavor of bourbon around the world.

Josh walks us through a typical day at the cooperage while sharing insights on safety, leadership, team development, and continuous improvement. We also talk about career growth in manufacturing, breaking industry myths, and what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on production environment.

Whether you’re a bourbon fan, a job seeker, or just curious about how things are made, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and processes behind the barrel.

🎧 Listen now to hear how craftsmanship meets innovation in Southwest Virginia.

 🔎 Search "#MadeInSWVA" on your favorite podcast platform to find us.

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-driven design. Join us as we explore how their Southwest Virginia facility plays a key role in supporting global infrastructure, and how their team brings world-class products to life—right here in our region.

Whether you're in construction, technology, or just curious about how modern buildings operate beneath the surface, this episode is a must-listen.

Tate, Inc.: www.tateinc.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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, mentorship, and machines rolling out the door, all while sharing practical advice for students, job seekers, and early-career professionals.

We explore what it takes to lead with integrity, how manufacturing has evolved, and why Jim still believes it's one of the most rewarding career paths out there. Whether you’re just starting out or considering a pivot into industry, Jim’s story is a masterclass in resilience, teamwork, and growth over time.

🎧 Tune in to hear how one leader built a lasting career—and why he’s still excited about what’s next.

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 Southwest Virginia builds powerful machines that combine strength, mobility, and precision.

Tune in to hear how this global brand continues to grow its roots in Virginia through a dedicated workforce, advanced manufacturing processes, and a strong commitment to safety and reliability.

Tadano Mantis: tadano.com

Learn about SVAM membership

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 people-first leadership. Along the way, she helped companies build strong teams, create safer workplaces, and foster a culture where employees could thrive.

Whether you're early in your career or decades in, Lisa’s story offers valuable lessons in mentorship, leadership, and staying human in a fast-paced industry.

🎧 Tune in to hear how one woman helped shape the future of manufacturing by investing in its most important asset—its people.

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