NRV Manufacturing Leaders Discuss COVID-19 Impacts

Onward NRV hosted the organization’s bi-annual Manufacturers Leaders’ Summit with industry leaders from Virginia’s New River Valley on November 5, 2020. This was the first Manufacturers Leaders’ Summit that was held virtually.

Onward NRV hosts Manufacturers Leaders’ Summits twice a year. The summits are part of the organization’s five-year strategy to promote economic development in Virginia’s New River Valley. The goal of the summits is to encourage collaboration around common challenges and opportunities faced by industry leaders to support the continued growth of the manufacturing industry in the NRV.

During the virtual summit, participants:

• Learned about the results of Onward NRV’s recent Manufacturing Day 2020 digital marketing campaign.
• Listened to Scott Tate, Associate Director of Virginia Tech’s Office of Economic Development (link to VTOED), present the findings of Onward NRV’s Manufacturing Industry Competitiveness Survey. The goal of the survey was to help Onward NRV better understand how local manufacturing companies are currently operating and adapting in the wake of COVID-19.
• Joined in a group discussion about communication tools and strategies for COVID-19 safety and compliance. The discussion was facilitated by Mike Leigh, President of OpX Solutions.

Read more about previous Manufacturers Leaders’ Summits here.

Learn more about the manufacturing industry in Virginia’s New River Valley here.

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Virginia’s New River Valley: Virginia’s New River Valley is an eclectic mix of interconnected small towns that each offer their own unique vibe and appeal. The region provides an abundance of cultural and social offerings due to the presence of three world-class universities, while retaining the charm and benefits of small-town living. The NRV is home to a diverse and innovative business community with companies that range from high-tech startups to foreign-based corporations to specialty agribusiness. These organizations benefit from the collaborative spirit of our region and a loyal, highly skilled, and educated workforce. The scenic beauty of the region also fosters a deep connection to nature, which is deepened by access to outdoor recreation and the preservation of our natural environment. It’s clear why Virginia’s New River Valley is “A Natural Fit.”

Onward NRV: Onward NRV is a public/private, regional economic development organization whose mission is to attract and retain world class jobs, investment, and talent in Virginia’s New River Valley. It’s also a movement where leaders from business, government, and higher education work together to promote the economic vitality of the region.