2026 Women of Manufacturing Symposium Honors Leaders and Inspires Future Workforce
Abingdon, VA – The Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM) hosted the it’s 7th Annual Women of Manufacturing Symposium at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center in Abingdon, Virginia on Friday, March 6th. Held in celebration of International Women’s Day, the annual event brought together approximately 250 industry professionals, students, and community leaders to recognize the contributions of women in manufacturing and highlight career opportunities across Southwest Virginia.
The Symposium provided opportunities for professional development, meaningful networking, and peer connection. Attendees participated in interactive engagement activities and heard from accomplished manufacturing professionals who shared their experiences and perspectives on leadership, growth, and career advancement within the industry.
The event featured keynote speaker Tamea L. Franco, CEO of Global Metal Finishing, Inc., who delivered an inspiring presentation titled “How to Experience an Inspirational Transformation.” In addition, a panel of women in manufacturing across Southwest Virginia participated in a dynamic discussion, offering insight into their career journeys, the challenges they have navigated, and the opportunities available within manufacturing. Their thoughtful and candid conversation resonated strongly with attendees.
This year’s panelists were:
Erin Kirk – Human Resources Business Partner, Westlake Royal Building Products
Peyton Spencer – Quality Improvement Specialist, Hitachi Energy Bland
Lucy Scott – Global Procurement Manager, Universal Fibers
Stephanie Reeves – HR Manager, Cardinal Glass Industries
A highlight of the Symposium was the presentation of SVAM’s Outstanding Women of Manufacturing Awards. This year, SVAM presented awards to three exceptional women in manufacturing and recognized 31 additional honorees for their leadership, dedication, and contributions to the industry. Award recipients were formally presented with their awards, and honorees received certificates during the event in recognition of their impact.
The 2026 award recipients were:
In the Administrative Support Category: Letha Doss, Accounting Clerk / Reception, AMR-PEMCO;
in the Hourly/Production Category: Betsy Talbert, International Shipping Coordinator, Universal Fibers;
In the Management Category: Judy Lewis, Inside Sales / Customer Service, XCal Tools.
The Symposium was made possible through the generous support of regional sponsors committed to advancing manufacturing across Southwest Virginia.
Platinum-Level Sponsors:
Somic America, Inc.; Air Specialists of Virginia, Inc.
Gold-Level Sponsors:
Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C.; OpX Solutions; Real Performance Machinery; Mountain Empire Community College; Virginia Highlands Community College; Appalachian Power; JA Street & Associates; Lawrence Brothers, Inc.; Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center
Silver-Level Sponsors:
Mount Rogers Regional Partnership; Brown, Edwards & Company, L.L.P.; Woodgrain; Luttrell Staffing Group; Appalachian Council for Innovation; GENEDGE; Ballad Health
Bronze-Level Sponsors:
Westlake Royal Building Products; AMR Pemco; Merrick; Virginia Coalfield Economic Development Authority
As SVAM’s largest annual event, the Women of Manufacturing Symposium continues to demonstrate the strength, talent, and leadership of women across the region’s manufacturing sector. SVAM remains committed to supporting workforce development initiatives and celebrating the individuals who are shaping the future of manufacturing in Southwest Virginia.
