In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we visit Vaughan-Bassett Furniture in Galax, Virginia—a company known for its American-made bedroom furniture, long-standing craftsmanship, and commitment to local jobs.

As one of the largest wood bedroom furniture manufacturers in the U.S., Vaughan-Bassett combines traditional woodworking techniques with modern production methods to deliver timeless, high-quality pieces to homes across the country. Their dedication to sourcing domestic hardwoods, sustaining American jobs, and supporting the regional economy makes them a standout example of what it means to be Made in Southwest Virginia.

Tune in to hear how this legacy company continues to thrive through innovation, skilled craftsmanship, and pride in local manufacturing.

Vaughan-Bassett Furniture: www.vaughanbassett.com

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In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we feature Universal Fibers in Bristol, Virginia—a global leader in the production of solution-dyed synthetic fibers used in a wide range of industries including automotive, flooring, and textiles.

With a focus on sustainability, innovation, and customization, Universal Fibers sets the standard for high-performance, environmentally responsible products. From recycled content to cutting-edge coloration and durability, their fibers are woven into some of the most recognizable products around the world—all starting right here in Southwest Virginia.

Join us to learn how Universal Fibers combines advanced manufacturing, creative problem-solving, and a commitment to the planet—while creating meaningful careers in the region.

Universal Fibers: www.universalfibers.com

Learn about SVAM membership

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we highlight VFP, Inc. of Duffield, Virginia — winner of the 2025 Community Impact Award.

From painting school gyms and supporting Habitat for Humanity, to donating tens of thousands in trade materials and hiring over 60 graduates from Mountain Empire Community College, VFP’s community engagement runs deep.

We speak with Bill Regert, Environmental Health and Safety Director at VFP, about how service became central to the company’s culture, the impact of their partnership with MECC, and what advice he’d give to manufacturers looking to build stronger community ties.

Learn more about VFP, Inc.

Meet this year's other winners

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we feature Real Performance Machinery (RPM) of Independence, Virginia — winner of the 2025 Environmental Excellence Award.

We speak with Craig Hensdell, Operations Manager at RPM, about how the company has made sustainability a core part of its manufacturing strategy. From reclaiming coolant and reducing offcuts to employee-led initiatives and local sourcing, RPM is setting a new standard for what environmental leadership can look like in metal fabrication.

Learn how this mid-sized manufacturer is proving that doing the right thing for the planet is also smart business — and why their culture of continuous improvement is driving results across the board.

Learn more about Real Performance Machinery

Meet this year's other winners

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we feature VFP, Inc. of Duffield, Virginia, winner of the 2025 Excellence in Safety Award.

VFP’s safety program doesn’t just meet the standard — it sets it. Through clear expectations, daily accountability, and a team-driven culture, VFP empowers every employee to take ownership of safety. From innovative incentives to real-time tracking, their system works because their people believe in it.

Hear how VFP built a safety culture that’s scalable, sustainable, and deeply human — and why it’s earning regional recognition.

Learn more about VFP, Inc.

Meet this year's other winners

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we shine a spotlight on Hitachi Energy of Bland, Virginia — winner of the 2025 Community Choice Award, as selected by local organizations and individuals.

From school sponsorships to emergency relief efforts, Hitachi Energy’s impact reaches far beyond the walls of their facility. Their nomination came directly from the people they’ve supported — including a touching example of employees raising funds to help fulfill the wish of a local child with terminal cancer.

Tune in to hear what community leadership looks like in action — and why Hitachi Energy is so much more than a manufacturer.

Learn more about Hitachi Energy

Meet this year's other winners

What does it take to become Manufacturer of the Year?

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we spotlight VFP, Inc. of Duffield, Virginia, the winner of the 2025 Manufacturer of the Year Award. Known for their customizable, prefabricated structures that serve critical infrastructure across the country, VFP stood out for more than just production numbers.

We speak with Bill Regert, Director of Environmental Health & Safety at VFP, about the company’s strategic growth, commitment to quality, investments in people, and how they’ve built a culture that scales. With three awards won this year, VFP is setting a new standard for manufacturing excellence in Southwest Virginia.

Learn more about VFP

Meet this year's other winners

Strongwell of Bristol, Virginia took home the 2025 Innovations in Manufacturing Award for a product six years in the making: Strongdek — a structural decking system that redefines what’s possible with fiber-reinforced polymer.

In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we explore how Strongwell combined pultrusion and extrusion, overcame technical hurdles, and positioned their new product for a $4 billion market. We speak with Barry Myers, Corporate Director, Marketing and Communications to uncover the challenges, breakthroughs, and lessons behind one of the year’s most innovative manufacturing achievements.

Learn more about Strongwell

Meet this year's other winners