Q2 2026 Member News Update - Innovation, Workforce Development & Manufacturing Momentum

Welcome to the Q2 2026 edition of the SVAM Member News Update, your quarterly roundup of the latest news, achievements, and workforce initiatives from manufacturers across Southwest Virginia. In this episode, we celebrate member accomplishments including Hapco Pole Products' Virginia Manufacturing Cup recognition, Strongwell's innovative rail freight collaboration, Mohawk Industries' impressive safety milestone, and community engagement efforts from Hitachi Energy. We also highlight workforce initiatives at Simmons Equipment and leadership updates from Universal Fibers. On the SVAM front, we recap another successful Manufacturing Careers Signing Day, recognize this year's Manufacturing Careers Scholarship recipients, and share updates on student outreach, leadership development, career fairs, and member training opportunities. Finally, we look ahead to SVAM's Annual Meeting and the 2026 Southwest Virginia Manufacturers Expo. Learn about SVAM membershipSVAM Recognizes the Newest Certified TOpX LeadersSVAM Celebrates Students Committing to Manufacturing Careers at Signing Day Event