Onward NRV Hosts Manufacturing Leaders Summit

On May 4th, 2022, manufacturing leaders from across the region gathered together to network and learn about resources and programs in the NRV designed to help address workforce needs.

Onward NRV hosts Manufacturers Leaders’ Summits twice a year as part of the organization’s five-year strategy to promote economic development in Virginia’s New River Valley. The May 4th event was held at the well-appointed Holiday Inn Christiansburg/Blacksburg.

An over-arching goal of the summits is to foster collaboration among our region’s industry leaders as we strive to define common challenges and present opportunities and resources to support the continued growth of the manufacturing industry in the NRV.

Onward NRV Manufacturing Leaders’ Summit, May 2022

Guest speakers Diana Lyons with Virginia’s Department of Labor & Industry and Angela Stanfill and Zenith Barret with Goodwill Industries of the Valleys discussed valuable resources designed to support industry leaders in successfully addressing their workforce needs. Below are some key takeaways from the event:

• Goodwill Industries of the Valleys: With a long-standing rich and diverse history, it comes as no surprise that Goodwill offers both staffing and business solutions to those in the manufacturing sector. Goodwill Business Services provides outsourcing options for local manufacturing and light industrial businesses. They also can provide trained, efficient, and safe staff to meet your business needs. Services include assembly, kitting, packaging, and product manufacturing to accommodate long and short-term projects. They also have an ISO 9001-2015 certified manufacturing location. Find additional information on how Goodwill Industries of the Valley can support your business objectives here.
• VA Department of Labor & Industry Registered Apprenticeship Program: This program helps to produce competent, skilled workers, ready to meet the demands of a global economy through a combination of on-the-job training and related technical instruction. Find additional information on how the VA Department of Labor & Industry can support your business sector and objectives here.

Read more about previous Manufacturers Leaders’ Summits here.

Learn more about the manufacturing industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

###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.