Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing | Official Podcast Series
Welcome to the official podcast feed of the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM)—where we share real stories, regional updates, and industry insights from across Southwest Virginia’s manufacturing landscape.
Our channel features multiple series, including:
🎙️ Made in Southwest Virginia – Spotlighting the companies, innovations, and people powering manufacturing across our region.
🎧 Why Manufacturing – Real conversations with manufacturers at every career stage, from new hires to seasoned experts, revealing what makes this industry so rewarding.
📰 Member News Update – Quick updates and announcements from SVAM members, highlighting local wins, initiatives, and opportunities.
Whether you're a student, educator, job seeker, manufacturer, or community partner, these episodes will keep you informed and inspired about the role of manufacturing in Southwest Virginia’s economy and future.
🔔 Subscribe for new episodes and hear how we’re building the future—right here in SWVA.
#Manufacturing #SWVA #MadeInSWVA #WhyManufacturing #WorkforceDevelopment #IndustryInnovation #CareerPathways #SVAMPodcast
Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing | Official Podcast Series
Why Manufacturing: Barrel Craft, Leadership, and Quality You Can Taste with Josh Chandler (1/2)
In this first of a two-part-episode of Why Manufacturing, a podcast by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM), we head to Atkins, Virginia to explore the art and science behind one of the world’s most iconic products—the bourbon barrel.
Our guest is Josh Chandler, Production Operations Manager at Speyside Bourbon Cooperage, where white oak and open flame are transformed into precision-crafted barrels that help shape the flavor of bourbon around the world.
Josh walks us through a typical day at the cooperage while sharing insights on safety, leadership, team development, and continuous improvement. We also talk about career growth in manufacturing, breaking industry myths, and what it takes to thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on production environment.
Whether you’re a bourbon fan, a job seeker, or just curious about how things are made, this episode offers a fascinating look at the people and processes behind the barrel.
🎧 Listen now to hear how craftsmanship meets innovation in Southwest Virginia.
🔎 Search "#MadeInSWVA" on your favorite podcast platform to find us.