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

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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

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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

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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

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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