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SVAM Annual Report 2025 - 2026

Page 1

2025-2026

ANNUAL REPORT

WWW.SWVAM.ORG

• 276-492-2100


LETTER FROM THE CHAIR

It is an honor to serve as Chair of the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing. As I stepped into this role during the past year, I quickly saw what makes SVAM such a valuable organization—its commitment to bringing manufacturers together to solve challenges, share ideas, and strengthen our region.

“When manufacturers, educators, workforce partners, and community leaders work together, we create stronger companies, better career opportunities, and a brighter future for our region.”

This year, SVAM continued to build meaningful connections across Southwest Virginia through workforce initiatives, leadership development, industry events, and partnerships that support our manufacturers every day. Just as importantly, we took time to listen. Through conversations with manufacturers and stakeholders, we developed a new three-year strategic plan that will guide our work and ensure SVAM continues delivering meaningful value to our members. Manufacturing is one of the driving forces behind Southwest Virginia’s economy, and our success depends on collaboration. When manufacturers, educators, workforce partners, and community leaders work together, we create stronger companies, better career opportunities, and a brighter future for our region. On behalf of the Board of Directors, thank you for your continued support of SVAM. Your engagement and investment make this organization stronger, and I look forward to building on the momentum we’ve created together. Kind regards,

Stacy Street, SVAM Board Chair

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

MELINDA ROBERTS

STEVE BARRETT

JENNIFER SCOTT

RICH BROOKS

PETE SAVAGE

SIG

Universal Fibers, Inc.

Amcor Rigid Packaging

Hapco Pole Products

West River Conveyors

Vice-Chair

Treasurer

Board Member

Board Member

ALEX LUPI

JOSH CHANDLER

STEVE THOROGOOD

BOBBY ANGLES

Tempur Production USA

Speyside Bourbon Cooperage

Wolf Hills Fabricators, LLC

Somic America

Board Member

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Secretary

Board Member

Board Member

Board Member


A MESSAGE FROM OUR EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR As I reflect on this past year, I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and energized by the opportunities ahead for SVAM and Southwest Virginia manufacturing. This was a year of both progress and purpose. We strengthened opportunities for manufacturers to connect and learn from one another, expanded training and professional development, celebrated the people and companies that make our industry strong, introduced students to manufacturing careers, and connected our members with resources and partners that can help them succeed. At the same time, the development of our first comprehensive Strategic Plan gave us an opportunity to listen closely to our Board, members, partners, and stakeholders and establish a clear direction for SVAM’s future.

“I am more energized than ever by what this organization can accomplish and the positive impact we can make for manufacturers, their employees, and the communities they call home.”

LENNIE GAIL MITCHAM Executive Director

What we heard has given us tremendous momentum. In the years ahead, we will work to strengthen connections among manufacturers, expand workforce and leadership development, create more opportunities for members to share challenges and learn from one another, and help manufacturers navigate technology, innovation, and the emerging trends shaping our industry. Through it all, we will remain committed to listening, responding, and continually improving so that SVAM continues to evolve alongside the manufacturers we serve. I believe deeply in what we are building together. SVAM has a strong foundation, an engaged manufacturing community, dedicated partners, and a clear vision for the future. I am more energized than ever by what this organization can accomplish and the positive impact we can make for manufacturers, their employees, and the communities they call home.

WILLIAM CARTY Program Assistant

Thank you to our members, Board of Directors, partners, sponsors, and everyone who contributed to another successful year. It is an incredible privilege to serve this organization and Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing community, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together in the years ahead. Warm regards,

Lennie Gail Mitcham

INSIDE THIS REPORT

WHO WE ARE

CONNECT MANUFACTURERS

CHAMPION MANUFACTURING

Introducing SVAM, our mission, and the role we play in supporting manufacturing.

Creating opportunities for collaboration and shared learning.

Celebrating excellence and improving the image of manufacturing.

A MANUFACTURER-LED ORGANIZATION

DEVELOP THE WORKFORCE

STRENGTHENING SVAM

Building today's and tomorrow's manufacturing workforce.

Building a stronger organization to better serve manufacturers.

FY 2025–2026 AT A GLANCE

STRENGTHEN MANUFACTURERS

A visual snapshot of the year's impact.

Helping companies develop leaders, improve operations, and remain competitive.

FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP & LOOKING AHEAD

How our members shape our priorities and strengthen manufacturing across Southwest Virginia.

A look at our financial stewardship and priorities for the future.

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WHO WE ARE The Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) is a nonprofit, manufacturer-led organization dedicated to supporting the success of manufacturers across Southwest Virginia.

By bringing together manufacturers and the organizations that support them, SVAM fosters collaboration, strengthens the manufacturing workforce, and promotes the long-term growth and competitiveness of the region's manufacturing industry. Through networking, advocacy, and strategic initiatives, SVAM helps ensure manufacturers have the resources, connections, and support they need to thrive in an evolving global economy.

OUR VALUES COLLABORATION We believe in the power of working together — manufacturers, educators, policymakers, and community partners — to drive regional success.

OUR MISSION

EMPOWERMENT We empower manufacturers, especially smaller ones, and the workforce by giving them the tools, training, and networks they need to thrive.

Supporting the sustainment and advancement of manufacturing in Southwest Virginia through regional collaboration, improving the image of manufacturing, and closing the skills gap.

ADVOCACY We are committed to being a strong voice for the manufacturing community in Southwest Virginia, influencing policy, education, and public perception.

EXCELLENCE We strive for the highest standards in service, training, and engagement.

INTEGRITY

OUR VISION To unite manufacturers, workforce, and community in building a strong, innovative, and future-ready manufacturing industry—one that fuels growth and inspires pride across Southwest Virginia.

We act honestly, transparently, and ethically in all we do.

OUR THREE STRATEGIC GOALS ESTABLISH AND STRENGTHEN REGIONAL COLLABORATION

IMPROVE THE IMAGE OF MANUFACTURING

CLOSE THE SKILLS GAP FOR REGIONAL MANUFACTURERS

To establish and promote regional collaboration in support of manufacturing and its careers as part of an educational and economic development initiative.

To redefine the image of manufacturing with young people, their parents, their educators, the community, and policy makers in a manner that increases the number of young adults and other members of the workforce who pursue manufacturing-based careers.

To close the skills gap for regional manufacturers by aligning educational and workforce training resources with the most pressing demands of area industry.

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SUPPORTED BY 55 AFFILIATE MEMBERS

A MANUFACTURER-LED ORGANIZATION SVAM is a manufacturer-led organization built by manufacturers, for manufacturers.

Our affiliate members represent organizations from around the region who provide valuable products, services, and expertise that help strengthen Southwest Virginia's manufacturing community.

Our 52 Manufacturer Members employ more than 9,500 people and help shape the programs, priorities, and partnerships that strengthen manufacturing across Southwest Virginia.

KEEPING MANUFACTURERS AT OUR CENTER Member companies guide SVAM through their leadership, participation, and insight, ensuring our work reflects the real needs and opportunities of the manufacturing community.

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MANUFACTURER MEMBERS

OUR MANUFACTURER MEMBERS

9500+ MANUFACTURING EMPLOYEES REPRESENTED

Being a member of SVAM has been a valuable resource for both my professional growth and our organization... SVAM membership has provided practical tools, meaningful connections, and ongoing learning opportunities that have strengthened my effectiveness as an HR professional.

We really appreciate all that SVAM’s offered to us in so many ways. We couldn’t have grown, developed, or expanded our thinking as much had we not had SVAM in our corner!

DONNA REEDER,

ERIN KIRK,

HAPCO POLE PRODUCTS

WESTLAKE ROYAL BUILDING PRODUCTS

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MEMBER VOICES “This is my second role with a manufacturer in Southwest Virginia that has been involved with SVAM, and I can’t stress enough how important this organization is to manufacturers. There are so many opportunities if you’re just willing to take advantage of them.

The value of SVAM is best understood through the manufacturers we serve. Here's what members say about the connections, resources, and opportunities SVAM provides.

I am a huge proponent of the scholarship program and participate in it every year. I think that is one of the most important things this organization does— promoting the up-and-coming workforce and helping them achieve their goals. It’s very rewarding to be part of that program. The HR meetings give us an opportunity to get together and exchange ideas. I’ve found excellent partners through SVAM's Affiliate membership. The Expo provides great networking, and Women in Manufacturing brings attention to just how many women are involved in manufacturing across Southwest Virginia. SVAM also does a great job promoting manufacturing and the opportunities available here. Even something like sharing our job postings helps people see that there are a lot of jobs in Southwest Virginia—you don’t have to leave here. I can’t speak highly enough of SVAM and the work they are doing for manufacturers in our region.”

PHILIP ALTIZER

Human Resources and Public Relations Manager | Real Performance Machinery

"SVAM has helped us grow our people. From leadership development and Excel training to peer networking, we've been able to equip employees with new skills, connect them with others facing similar challenges, and strengthen our organization.

One of the greatest benefits is learning from other manufacturers —hearing different perspectives, sharing best practices, and discovering what's possible. It makes all of us better."

JONATHAN ROUNDTREE

Sr. HR Generalist | Mohawk

The networking, training, workforce development initiatives, and connections have all had a real impact. I've made relationships through SVAM that helped solve business challenges, gained access to high-quality training that would otherwise be expensive, and found opportunities to promote both my company and manufacturing across Southwest Virginia. What stands out most is that when I need a resource or a connection, the SVAM team follows through. They do what they say they'll do, and that's made a difference everywhere I've been. I'm grateful for everything SVAM provides and for the positive impact it's had throughout my career."

JAKE LEONARD 05

If we can invest in the next generation of our workforce and show them the opportunities available to them here in their hometown, then I think we’re doing something right—and SVAM does that.”

EMILY SLEDD

Plant Manager | XCal Tools

"I've experienced SVAM from three different perspectives—economic development, human resources/ public relations, and now business development. No matter what role I was in, SVAM has been valuable both to me and to the organizations I've worked for.

“Through SVAM, I’ve been able to represent Mohawk at our local high school, serve on the scholarship committee, network with other HR professionals, attend the Women in Manufacturing Symposium, and take advantage of leadership training for our employees. When I had a need for certain classes, I reached out to Lennie Gail, and she made it happen closer to our area at WCC. That has been really helpful for building our employees' education, knowledge and morale.

Sales & Business Development Manager | Thomas Automation Management


FY2025–2026 AT A GLANCE

A year of collaboration, workforce development, and investment in Southwest Virginia manufacturing.

516 732 TRAINING PARTICIPANTS

STUDENTS REACHED THROUGH IN-SCHOOL PRESENTATIONS

34

250

OUTSTANDING WOMEN OF MANUFACTURING RECOGNIZED

WOMEN OF MANUFACTURING ATTENDEES

36

160

MEMBER-TO-MEMBER INFORMATION EXCHANGES

MANUFACTURING EXPO ATTENDEES

$25K

9

GRANT FUNDING SECURED

MANUFACTURING CAREERS SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED

STORIES OF SUCCESS “Receiving the SVAM scholarship in 2020 reinforced that I was on the correct path. Knowing that others believed in my potential and were willing to invest in my education gave me confidence in my decision to pursue a career in manufacturing. Today, I work at VFP, Inc. as an Integration Designer, after starting my career in production. Looking back, I know it was the right choice, and I am grateful that SVAM helped support the opportunities, experience, and knowledge I have gained along the way.”

COLBY DILLON

Integration Designer, VFP, Inc

“SVAM's training programs have provided our Customer Service team with practical skills that have strengthened communication, problem-solving, process improvement, and leadership capabilities. Through their engaging and knowledgedriven approach, our team has gained valuable tools to think more strategically, collaborate more effectively, and confidently. These learning opportunities have empowered employees to grow professionally, improve customer experiences, and contribute at a higher level across the organization.”

TANJA BRYANT

Customer Service Manager T&M, Westlake Royal Building Products

“SIG has gone through two expansions and hired more than 200 people in less than three years. During that growth, we started hosting job fairs on site. At times, our lobby would be full of candidates, and we were a little short-staffed. The SVAM team actually came on site and physically helped us navigate candidates through the process. That’s the kind of support you might not even think to ask for. If you have something going on internally at your plant and could use the support, just call and ask.”

MELINDA ROBERTS

People and Culture Manager, SIG

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CONNECTING MANUFACTURERS As an alliance of manufacturers, creating meaningful connections between manufacturers is at the heart of SVAM's work.

Some of the most valuable knowledge and insight available to manufacturers comes from their industry peers—people who understand firsthand the challenges and opportunities they face. SVAM creates opportunities for manufacturers to build relationships, exchange ideas, share best practices, and learn from one another.

Throughout FY26, SVAM created opportunities for manufacturing professionals to connect with peers who understand the challenges and opportunities they face. Through facilitated networking, peer groups, and manufacturer-hosted benchmarking, members shared experiences, explored best practices, and learned from one another.

HR NETWORKING & BRAINSTORMING LUNCHEON A new FY26 opportunity brought manufacturing HR professionals together to discuss shared workforce and workplace challenges, exchange ideas, and learn how their peers are approaching common issues. The informal, discussion-based format created space for candid conversation, relationship-building, and practical knowledge sharing.

EHS PEER GROUP MEETINGS Three EHS Peer Group meetings brought environmental, health and safety professionals together at member manufacturing facilities to discuss ideas, challenges, and best practices. Each meeting also gave the host company an opportunity to share its EHS initiatives and practices, followed by a facility tour that allowed participants to see those approaches in action.

36 MEMBER-TO-MEMBER INFORMATION EXCHANGES FACILITATED Beyond organized peer opportunities, SVAM regularly connects manufacturers seeking insight from one another—helping members benchmark practices, exchange information, and learn how other companies are addressing common challenges.

MANUFACTURER-TO-MANUFACTURER BENCHMARKING A manufacturer-hosted benchmarking opportunity at VFP gave members an inside look at another company's operations and practices. Through discussion and a facility tour, participants were able to learn from VFP's experiences, exchange ideas with fellow manufacturers, and consider practices and approaches that could be valuable within their own organizations.

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CONNECTING MANUFACTURERS TO RESOURCES Manufacturers don't have to navigate every challenge or opportunity alone. SVAM helps connect manufacturers with the information, resources, expertise, and organizations that can support their success—making it easier to find the right resource when a need arises.

RESOURCES AT YOUR FINGERTIPS SVAM's Manufacturing Resource Database provides a centralized place for manufacturers to identify organizations, services, and information that can help address their business needs. Resources span areas including business growth, economic development, education and training, health and wellness, manufacturing vendors, and more.

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AT SWVAM.ORG/RESOURCE-DATABASE OR SCAN THE QR CODE TO EXPLORE THE MANUFACTURING RESOURCE DATABASE

INFORMATION THAT MATTERS Throughout the year, SVAM helps manufacturers stay informed about training, workforce resources, funding, industry opportunities, events, and other information that may benefit their organizations.

MID-MONTH MEMBERS-ONLY NEWSLETTER A centralized source for memberexclusive programs, resources, and opportunities.

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MONTHLY MANUFACTURING RESOURCES NEWSLETTER Shares timely programs, resources, and opportunities available to the manufacturing community.

NEED SOMETHING? START WITH SVAM. Not every need fits neatly into a program or database. SVAM also serves as a direct connection point for manufacturers seeking information, expertise, or support—helping identify potential resources and make connections when possible.

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DEVELOPING THE WORKFORCE Building the manufacturing workforce starts long before someone applies for a job. SVAM introduces students to manufacturing careers, creates opportunities to explore the industry, supports students pursuing manufacturing-related education, celebrates their commitment to manufacturing, and connects job seekers with opportunities at local manufacturers.

CAREER AWARENESS & EXPLORATION

732 STUDENTS REACHED

187

OPPORTUNITIES IN MANUFACTURING In-school presentations introduce students to the variety of manufacturing careers available in Southwest Virginia and give manufacturers an opportunity to share firsthand perspectives about careers in the industry.

INVESTING IN FUTURE MANUFACTURING TALENT

College-based events give students an opportunity to learn about manufacturing careers and hear directly from manufacturing professionals.

CELEBRATING A COMMITMENT TO MANUFACTURING

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9 SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED SVAM's Manufacturing Careers Scholarship Program provides financial support to students pursuing education and training that can lead to careers in manufacturing. In FY26, nine students received scholarships to support their continued education.

STUDENTS PARTICIPATED

MANUFACTURE YOUR CAREER EVENTS

“I am very thankful for this scholarship and really appreciate the generous investment into my future. It helps make my educational aspirations a reality. I look forward to this next phase of life and what it will bring.” -Caden Burchett

MANUFACTURING COMPANIES PROVIDED LETTERS OF INTENT TO INTERVIEW SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

SVAM's Manufacturing Careers Signing Ceremony recognizes students who intend to pursue careers in manufacturing and celebrates their decision alongside family members, educators, and regional manufacturers. The event also creates opportunities to connect emerging talent directly with manufacturing employers.

CONNECTING JOB SEEKERS WITH MANUFACTURING CAREERS

~ 150 MEMBER MANUFACTURING JOBS PROMOTED WEEKLY

26993 ,

MANUFACTURING CAREERS PAGE VISITS

SVAM's Manufacturing Careers Page provides a year-round connection between job seekers and career opportunities with Southwest Virginia manufacturers. Member job openings are promoted through a weekly enewsletter, through social media, at community career fairs, and more, helping make local manufacturing careers easier to discover. 09

CHECK IT OUT AT SWVAM.ORG/MFGCAREERS


STRENGTHENING MANUFACTURERS THROUGH LEARNING A strong manufacturing industry depends on people who continue to learn and grow. SVAM provides training and professional development opportunities designed around the needs of Southwest Virginia manufacturers—helping employees build skills, strengthen leadership capabilities, and respond to an evolving industry.

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TRAINING PARTICIPANTS

LEADERSHIP AND SUPERVISION

TECHNICAL AND OPERATIONAL SKILLS

BUSINESS AND WORKPLACE KNOWLEDGE

EMERGING TECHNOLOGY

Supervisor development, communication tools, leadership skills, and other training designed to strengthen current and emerging leaders.

Practical learning in areas such as Excel, Arc Flash, ISO 9001, and other skills applicable to manufacturing operations.

Programs addressing financial literacy, employment law, workforce issues, and other topics affecting manufacturers.

Programming designed to help manufacturers understand and prepare for technologies changing the industry, including AI.

LEARNING ON DEMAND Recorded training gives manufacturing employees additional flexibility to access professional development when it works for their schedules, extending the value of SVAM learning opportunities beyond the original session.

SVAM continued investing in the development of manufacturing supervisors and emerging leaders through training focused on the practical challenges of leading people in today's workplace.

EXPLORE OUR RECORDED TRAINING RESOURCES AT SWVAM.ORG/TRAININGS

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CELEBRATING MANUFACTURING EXCELLENCE Southwest Virginia manufacturing is powered by people and companies doing exceptional work. SVAM creates opportunities to bring the manufacturing community together, elevate the people behind the industry, recognize achievement, and celebrate the contributions manufacturers and manufacturing employees make across our region.

WOMEN OF MANUFACTURING SYMPOSIUM The Women of Manufacturing Symposium is SVAM's largest annual event, bringing together manufacturing professionals, students, and community leaders to celebrate the contributions of women in manufacturing while creating opportunities for professional development, meaningful connection, and career inspiration.

250

~

ATTENDEES

Through a keynote presentation, a panel with candid conversations from women working throughout the industry, networking, and interactive engagement, attendees gain insight into leadership, professional growth, career advancement, and the opportunities available within Southwest Virginia manufacturing.

RECOGNIZING WOMEN MAKING AN IMPACT

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OUTSTANDING WOMEN RECOGNIZED

Through the Outstanding Women of Manufacturing Awards, SVAM recognizes women whose leadership, dedication, and contributions are making an impact within Southwest Virginia manufacturing. In FY26, three award recipients and 31 additional honorees were recognized.

CELEBRATING EXCELLENCE ACROSS THE INDUSTRY SVAM's 2025 Manufacturing Awards recognized the critical contributions of manufacturers across Southwest Virginia and celebrated excellence in innovation, safety, environmental stewardship, community impact, and individual achievement.

MANUFACTURER OF THE YEAR

COMMUNITY IMPACT AWARD VFP, Inc.

ENVIRONMENTAL EXCELLENCE AWARD

Real Performance Machinery

EXCELLENCE IN SAFETY AWARD

INNOVATIONS IN MANUFACTURING AWARD

MANUFACTURING EMPLOYEE OF THE YEAR

Strongwell

Chris Viers

COMMUNITY CHOICE AWARD

ERIC MILLER MEMORIAL AWARD

VFP, Inc.

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Hitachi Energy

VFP, Inc.

Jake Leonard


SHOWCASING SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MANUFACTURING Manufacturing is a vital part of Southwest Virginia's economy and identity—but its impact isn't always visible to the broader community. SVAM works to showcase the companies, people, products, and opportunities that make up our region's manufacturing industry and help tell the story of modern manufacturing in Southwest Virginia.

BRINGING THE SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MANUFACTURING COMMUNITY TOGETHER

SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MANUFACTURERS EXPO The 2025 Southwest Virginia Manufacturers Expo set a new benchmark for regional industry engagement, drawing a record 160 participants, including representatives from 30 manufacturing companies, along with suppliers and resource partners from across Southwest Virginia.

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EXHIBITING ORGANIZATIONS

160

ATTENDEES

The Expo connected manufacturers with new business and supply-chain opportunities, industry resources, and practical learning through expert-led sessions focused on workforce, operational efficiency, and emerging technologies. The record turnout reflected the strength of Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing community and the value of bringing the industry together to connect, learn, and grow.

Record Attendance • Record Number of Exhibitors

SHARING THE STORIES BEHIND MANUFACTURING

EXPLORE SOUTHWEST VIRGINIA MANUFACTURING

Throughout the year, SVAM uses digital storytelling and communications to highlight manufacturers, manufacturing careers, industry accomplishments, and the people behind the products made in Southwest Virginia.

SWVAM.ORG/MANUFACTURERS-MAP

Manufacturer & Employee Stories • Putting faces and stories behind Southwest Virginia manufacturing. Digital Storytelling • Sharing manufacturing accomplishments, careers, opportunities, and industry news with the broader community.

SVAM's interactive Manufacturing Map makes the region's manufacturing presence more visible, helping users discover manufacturers located throughout Southwest Virginia and explore the breadth of the industry across the region.

MADE IN SWVA PODCAST Sharing conversations and perspectives from the region's manufacturing community. These episodes will keep you informed and inspired about the role of manufacturing in Southwest Virginia’s economy and future.

LISTEN IN BY SEARCHING "MADE IN SWVA" ON ANY PODCAST PLATFORM, OR VISIT MADEINSWVA.BUZZSPROUT.COM

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BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE Manufacturing continues to evolve and SVAM must evolve with it. During FY26, SVAM took deliberate steps to better understand the changing needs of Southwest Virginia manufacturers and establish a clear direction for how the organization can create even greater value in the years ahead.

COMPREHENSIVE STRATEGIC PLAN FY2027–FY2029

NEW VISION

PLANNING WITH PURPOSE During FY26, SVAM undertook a comprehensive strategic planning process to better understand the needs of manufacturers, evaluate opportunities for growth, and establish priorities for the future. Input from manufacturers, Board members, partners, and other stakeholders helped shape the organization's direction. The process resulted in SVAM's first comprehensive Strategic Plan, establishing priorities for FY2027–FY2029 and providing a roadmap for how SVAM can continue creating value for Southwest Virginia manufacturers.

NEW VALUES CLEAR STRATEGIC PRIORITIES

GUIDED BY MANUFACTURER NEEDS SVAM's future priorities are grounded in what manufacturers told us they need—from stronger peer connections and leadership development to greater access to technology resources and new approaches to building the future workforce.

PEER CONNECTION LEADERSHIP & SKILLS TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION WORKFORCE PIPELINE MEMBER ACCESS & ENGAGEMENT

INVESTING IN WHAT'S NEXT

SVAM SECURED

$25,000 IN GRANT FUNDING to support the development and implementation of new initiatives designed to expand manufacturer connections and strengthen the future workforce. 13

POTENTIAL INITIATIVES MANUFACTURER ROUNDTABLES

Expanding opportunities for manufacturers to connect around shared challenges and areas of responsibility.

ONLINE MEMBER PLATFORM

Creating new ways for members to connect, exchange information, and access resources.

INNOVATORS QUEST

Developing a new initiative designed to engage students and strengthen awareness of manufacturing and related career opportunities.


FINANCIAL STEWARDSHIP & LOOKING AHEAD Responsible financial stewardship helps ensure SVAM can continue creating value for Southwest Virginia manufacturers. Through careful management of resources and continued investment in mission-driven programs, SVAM remains focused on maintaining a strong foundation for the organization's work.

FINANCIAL SNAPSHOT

$207,303.55

REVENUE SOURCES

TOTAL REVENUE

Program Revenue 12.4%

$211,709.41 TOTAL EXPENSES Membership Dues 44%

($4,405.86) NET OPERATING RESULT

County Support 42.8%

LOOKING AHEAD

With a new Strategic Plan in place, SVAM enters FY27 with a clear direction and a continued commitment to creating meaningful value for Southwest Virginia manufacturers.

EXPANDING MANUFACTURER CONNECTIONS Launch new Manufacturer Roundtables and create additional opportunities for manufacturing professionals to exchange ideas, discuss shared challenges, and learn from their peers.

PREPARING MANUFACTURERS FOR WHAT'S NEXT Expand learning opportunities in emerging technology, AI, leadership, and other skills manufacturers need as the industry evolves.

CREATING NEW WAYS TO CONNECT

BUILDING THE FUTURE WORKFORCE

Develop an online Member Platform to make it easier for manufacturers to communicate, exchange information, and access resources.

Continue career-awareness initiatives while launching Innovators Quest to engage students in manufacturing, innovation, and problem-solving.

EXPLORE SVAM'S FY2027– FY2029 STRATEGIC PLAN Learn more about the priorities guiding SVAM's work over the next three years.

With a strong foundation and a clear direction, SVAM is ready to continue building connections, developing talent, and championing manufacturing across Southwest Virginia.

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CONNECT WITH US 851 French Moore Jr. Blvd., Suite 109 Abingdon, VA 24210 276-492-2100 www.swvam.org lgmitcham@swvam.org


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SVAM Annual Report 2025 - 2026 by SVAM - Issuu