Onward NRV Host 2025 Spring Leaders’ Summits

On April 15, 2025, Onward New River Valley brought together regional industry leaders for its semiannual Tech/IT and Manufacturing Leaders’ Summits. These summits offer a collaborative space to share ideas, identify challenges, and explore growth opportunities within two of the region’s key industries.

The day began with technology leaders gathering at The HUB at Radford to learn about Radford University’s efforts to strengthen the region’s tech talent pipeline from Radford University Director of Economic Development and Community Engagement Nichole Hair, Interim Executive Director of the Vinod Chachra IMPACT Lab Tom Bennett, and Senior Director, Business Development of the IMPACT Lab Svetlana Filiatreau.

After the presentation, attendees toured The HUB’s support center, which connects students and businesses through cybersecurity and data science training, internships, entrepreneurial programming, and workforce development. The HUB at Radford serves as a bridge between education and industry, helping position the NRV as a growing center for tech innovation and talent development.

In the afternoon, manufacturing leaders met at Spectrum Brands in Blacksburg for the Manufacturing Leaders’ Summit. The event featured a presentation by Bradly Hudgins from Spectrum Brands highlighting their operations and commitment to innovation in the region and a presentation by GO TEC Training Coordinator Jacob Taylor talking about the program and its plan to spread across the Commonwealth.

Following the presentation, attendees toured the Spectrum Brands facility, gaining behind-the-scenes insight into their advanced manufacturing processes. Participants also explored the GO TEC Mobile Lab, a hands-on mobile classroom designed to introduce students to high-demand careers in STEM and advanced manufacturing. The afternoon provided valuable opportunities for networking, learning, and collaboration around shared workforce development strategies and the future of manufacturing in the NRV.

These summits are free to attend, thanks to the support of Onward NRV and its investors. By bringing together leaders in technology and manufacturing, Onward NRV continues to foster innovation, support workforce development, and strengthen the regional economy.

Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly-skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.