Peyton Spencer didn’t set out to work in manufacturing—but an internship quickly changed everything.

In this episode of How I Got Here: Manufacturing, Peyton shares how a communications major turned into a dynamic career spanning marketing, quality control, data analysis, HR, and process improvement. Along the way, she discovered the wide range of opportunities available in modern manufacturing—and found a role that fits her skills and passions.

From building social media campaigns to improving processes on the factory floor, Peyton’s story highlights the value of staying open to new opportunities and being willing to learn along the way.

If you’ve ever wondered how people actually find their way into manufacturing—or if there’s a place for your skillset in the industry—this episode is a great place to start.

Visit https://swvam.org/careers-in-manufacturing to learn how to start your journey!

Welcome to the Q1 2026 edition of the SVAM Member News Update, your quarterly look at the latest developments across Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing community.

In this episode, we highlight major investments in advanced manufacturing and additive technologies, including a $6 million regional initiative aimed at creating new jobs and strengthening the talent pipeline. We also celebrate AQ Transformer Solutions for completing the VALET global trade accelerator program and share updates on VFP, Inc.’s continued expansion, supported by new workforce development funding.

On the SVAM side, we recap a strong start to the year, including the 7th Annual Women of Manufacturing Symposium, the launch of a new podcast series spotlighting award winners, and expanded student outreach efforts reaching over 600 students across the region. Plus, updates on leadership training through the TOpX Leadership Lab and additional workforce development programs.

🎧 Tune in to stay informed on the people, programs, and progress shaping manufacturing in Southwest Virginia.

📩 SVAM members: Want to be featured in the next episode? Send your updates to programassistant@swvam.org.

Interested in becoming a member of SVAM?

Careers: https://swvam.org/mfgcareers/

Trainings: https://swvam.org/trainings/

Resource Database: https://swvam.org/resource-database/

Become a Member: https://swvam.org/membership/become-a-member/

In this wrap-up episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we reflect on the 2026 Women of Manufacturing Symposium and the Outstanding Women of Manufacturing series, highlighting the many career paths that make up Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing industry.

From administrative support and production to leadership roles, this episode brings together the key themes from across the series and explores how these roles connect to keep manufacturing moving forward. You’ll also hear perspectives from symposium panelists Peyton Spencer of Hitachi Energy and Erin Kirk of Westlake Royal Building Products, who share insights on career pathways, workforce skills, and the evolving opportunities within the industry. Together, these stories offer a broader look at what manufacturing looks like today—and the people who make it possible.