Women of Manufacturing Symposium

SVAM's annual Women of Manufacturing Symposium will be held on Friday, March 6th, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. at the Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center of Abingdon, Virginia.

Held in celebration of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day, this annual event recognizes and celebrates the vital contributions of women in manufacturing while highlighting the growing opportunities available within the industry. The Symposium is designed to inspire, inform, and connect women at all stages of their manufacturing journey.

The day will begin with networking activities and interactive engagement, followed by a keynote presentation and a panel discussion featuring women from local manufacturing companies. Panelists will share their personal career pathways, discuss today’s manufacturing job opportunities, explore the skills and qualities that contribute to success in the field, and provide insight into wages, day-to-day work experiences, and the evolving technical requirements of modern manufacturing careers.

This event is ideal for women currently working in manufacturing, young women exploring career options, and those who support the manufacturing industry through education, workforce development, or community engagement. The Symposium is open to the public, and all genders are welcome.

During the event, SVAM will also recognize the 2026 Outstanding Women of Manufacturing Award recipients and honorees.

Lunch will be provided by Your Grate Escape.

We need volunteers!

This is a major event for a very small nonprofit. If you would be willing to donate your time to help with this event, even in small part, please email Lennie Gail Mitcham at [email protected].

Sponsors:

Platinum-Level:
Somic America, Inc.

Gold-Level Sponsors:

Baker Donelson Bearman Caldwell & Berkowitz, P.C., OpX Solutions LLC, Real Performance Machinery, Mountain Empire Community College, Virginia Highlands Community College

Silver-Level Sponsors:

Mount Rogers Regional Partnership, Brown, Edwards & Company, L.L.P., Woodgrain

Bronze-Level Sponsors:

Westlake Royal Building Products, AMR Pemco, Merrick & Company

Who Should Attend?

Women in Manufacturing: Women currently working in manufacturing, at all levels, will benefit from the opportunity to network with other women in manufacturing. There will also be value in hearing from women professionals in manufacturing speak about their career paths and challenges that they have overcome.

Testimonial from a previous attendee: “The Women in Manufacturing Symposium was a wonderful experience! The event provides an opportunity for a diverse group of women to engage while sharing advice and experiences. I would encourage any woman in manufacturing to attend such an inspiring event!”

Women interested in a career in manufacturing (students and adults): Network with women currently working in manufacturing and learn about the career opportunities available.

Testimonial from a previous attendee: “For all women that are either manufacturing professionals or looking for a possible career in manufacturing, this is the symposium for you. This yearly event provides excellent speakers that share their experiences in the job they have today, how they got to where they are, and what opportunities they see opening up to more and more women in the future.”

Teachers/Guidance Counselors/School Administrators: Learn about career opportunities available to your students.

Testimonial from a previous attendee: “Awesome event! Made me much more aware of jobs for women in manufacturing. This information will be very helpful in talking with students about their future.”

Info: Attendees will be given time to check in and will play a game of networking BINGO to earn prizes.

Info: This year's Keynote Speaker: TBA

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

The Southwest Virginia Higher Education Center, One Partnership Circle, Abingdon, United States

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