Advanced Manufacturing
With more than 10,640 people employed at 223 firms, advanced manufacturing companies are a strong cluster in the Roanoke Region. Almost 8 percent of the Roanoke Region's workforce is employed in manufacturing, compared to 7.2 percent statewide.
- Area employers draw from a labor force of more than 300,000
- Low unionization. Less than 3 percent of manufacturing workforce in the Roanoke MSA is unionized.
- Products include night-vision goggles, optical cable, industrial controls, steering systems, and food products.
- Foreign investment from Japan, Germany, Australia, and Canada.
- Abundant utilities: fiber, water, and electricity.
- Electric rates below the national average; redundant service available.
- Affordable, high-quality assistance available through Virginia's Philpott Manufacturing Extension Partnership network of field offices.
HIGHER EDUCATION CONNECTION
With Virginia Tech and training programs offered by Virginia's community college system, higher education institutions in the Roanoke Region train future engineers and contribute innovative technology and research to advanced manufacturing.
Virginia Tech Center for High Performance Manufacturing developed to help manufacturers cut costs, improve operations, and keep up with customer demand. Areas of specialization include: flexible automation, manufacturing logistics, production and information systems, rapid prototyping and tooling, and low-cost composite manufacturing.
Advanced Manufacturing & Packaging Technology Program at Dabney S. Lancaster Community College provides training through course work and labs. Established on the basis of Integrated Systems Technology.
Dynax America -- Automatic transmission clutch disc plates.
GE Energy -- Energy related components and controls.
ITT Night Vision -- Night vision products.
LiteSteel Beam -- First North American manufacturing facility makes light steel beams for use in residential and commercial construction.
Luna Innovations -- Headquarters of biotech instrumentation and nanotechnology manufacturer.
Maple Leaf Bakery -- Par-baked bread for the in-store bakery and food service market.
McAirlaid's -- Non-woven composite materials for absorbency end uses.
Optical Cable Corporation -- Headquarters of fiber optic cable manufacturer.
Synchrony -- Headquarters develops and produces magnetic bearings, controls, and power systems for high speed rotating machinery.
Tecton Products -- Pultruded composite products.
TMEIC GE -- Integrator of drives automation systems. Joint venture among GE, Toshiba, and Mitsubishi.
Virginia Forge -- Wheel hubs for auto industry.