In this episode of MadeInSWVA, we shine a spotlight on Mitsubishi Chemical Group in Wytheville, Virginia—a global leader in high-performance thermoplastics. Discover how this innovative facility contributes to industries ranging from automotive to healthcare, all while maintaining a strong commitment to quality, sustainability, and community. Learn how cutting-edge materials produced in Wytheville are shaping the future of engineering and manufacturing worldwide.

Mitsubishi Chemical Group

Learn about SVAM membership

In this episode of the #MadeInSWVA podcast, we’re proud to feature Hitachi Energy in Bland, Virginia—recipient of the Manufacturer of the Year Award at SVAM’s 2024 Manufacturing Awards Banquet.

As a global leader in energy technology, Hitachi Energy stands out for its commitment to innovation, workforce development, sustainability, and community impact. Join us as we explore the practices and values that earned them this top honor, from powering the grid of the future to investing in local talent and driving progress in Southwest Virginia.

Whether you're in manufacturing, energy, or just curious about what excellence looks like in today’s industrial world, this episode offers insight into how Hitachi Energy is helping shape a smarter, more sustainable future—starting right here in SWVA.

Hitachi Energy

See all of the Manufacturing Awards Banquet Honorees

Learn more about SVAM membership

In this episode of SVAM Member News Update, we highlight major investments, facility expansions, safety milestones, and award recognitions from Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing community. Hear the latest on Lawrence Brothers’ expansion in Bluefield, Hitachi Energy’s growth in Atkins and Bland, Somic America’s top-tier supplier award, and a strong recovery effort from West River Conveyors. We also recognize Mohawk’s Hillsville facility for achieving Level 1 in their Safety Management System.

Plus, SVAM spotlights the 2024 Manufacturing Awards Banquet, the 2025 Women of Manufacturing Symposium and Outstanding Women of Manufacturing awards, recent student outreach events like Manufacture Your Career and Opportunities in Manufacturing, and member-only opportunities that continue to build the region’s industrial strength.

SVAM members are invited to submit news for the next episode by emailing programassistant@swvam.org.

Interested in becoming a member of SVAM?

Meet the honorees at the 2024 SWVA Manufacturing Awards Banquet

Meet the honorees at the 2025 Women of Manufacturing Symposium

SVAM members in this episode:

Lawrence Brothers, Inc.

Hitachi Energy

Somic America, Inc.

West River Conveyors

Universal Fibers

Mohawk Industries, Inc.

AQ Transformer Solutions

Coperion Corporation