Spring 2025 Opportunities in Manufacturing Presentations

This spring, SVAM presented its Opportunities in Manufacturing program to over 500 students at career and technical schools throughout Southwest Virginia. Participating schools included Grayson County Career and Tech Center, Scott County Career and Tech School, Smyth County Career and Tech School, Washington County Neff Center, Bland County High School, and Fort Chiswell High School.

The goal was straightforward: to show students that manufacturing offers more than they might expect—it provides strong career potential, competitive pay, and a diverse range of job paths. Many students were surprised to discover the number of manufacturers located in Southwest Virginia and that the average salary in manufacturing is significantly higher than the regional average.

Students also learned about various career pathways, from technical certifications to four-year degrees, and how these paths can lead to roles in engineering, business, IT, and other areas within the manufacturing sector.

Faculty and staff at several schools expressed a strong interest in future collaboration with SVAM to raise awareness about local career opportunities in this expanding industry.