Mindfulness focuses one on the awareness of feelings and being in the moment. It reminds one to be purposeful in all things, be aware of one's patterns of behavior, and not to neglect one's happiness. Learning the techniques to be calm when things get crazy takes practice and I recommend two resources to review over the holidays:

I think of mindfulness like the directions from a flight attendant during flight preparation. They always tell you that in case of emergency, put the oxygen mask on yourself so that you can help others.

We will have plenty of time to fight for the future competitiveness of manufacturing in the Commonwealth in 2021. So, secure your mask and share some holiday spirit. We all need some life affirming celebrations and simple acts of kindness to end this year.

COVID-19 compelled the VMA to produce its Virginia Environmental Health & Safety Conference, Workforce Symposium, Competitiveness Forum and WiM-Virginia Leadership Conference with a new virtual conference platform. Members could participate virtually or view modular session recordings later. We're grateful to our members, sponsors, and event speakers for pivoting with us and supporting these critical professional development and networking programs.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the 2021 VMA Day on the Hill will be held virtually, but you can still demonstrate your dedication to protecting and growing manufacturing in the Commonwealth. Use the button below to select meetings with key legislators, and connection information will be sent to you in January 2021.

Is your company invested in developing new capacity for medical supplies and PPE equipment? Are you working to figure out what the new demands and opportunities will be for sustained business? Are you interested in providing capacity to avoid supply chain disruptions in the future?

Check out the grant application at GO Virginia – Re-tooling Virginia Manufacturers for Strategic Industries Program. Up to $75,000 per company could be available to assist with everything from lean process improvements to laboratory testing and validation. This is part of VMA's continuing commitment to supply-chain services and part of its "MFG Makes VA Safer" campaign.

In the battle against COVID-19 every tool needs to be used. During this informational session, learn about the limitations of disinfecting solutions and the power of UVC as a disinfectant when used properly to kill SARS-CoV-2. LiteSheet’s patent pending UVC Cabinet is proven to kill SARS-CoV-2, safely, with 100% confidence. Register to discover how you can use this powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19.

The Manufacturers Premier program offers comprehensive coverage and flexible options tailored to meet the specific needs of the manufacturing industry.

This month, FCCI announced a dividend payment back to participants of the Manufacturers Premier program. For more information, view FCCI's Press Release.

For more information or to participate in the Manufacturers Premier program, email Kimberly Noonan at [email protected].

Working with the Manufacturing Skills Institute, DARS/DBVI achieved the following project results as of September 30, 2020:

The mission of the WiM-Virginia Chapter Mentoring Program is to help develop our members by providing them with the knowledge and leadership skills that will empower them to realize their full potential. By facilitating mentoring relationships, providing opportunities for reflection and self-examination, and teaching practical leadership skills, the program helps women in industry strengthen their self-confidence, find their voice, learn to wield influence and exercise authority, and articulate and pursue leadership goals. We are now accepting applications for mentors and mentees who would like to participate in the first year of our program.

Check out the Mentoring Program page at https://www.wimva.com/ for program details.

As an extension of VMAConnections: a B2B Service Provider Sourcing Center, the VMA features up to three Associate Members who support and supply services to Virginia manufacturers. Give these great Associates a click or two or three!

For a chance to see your company spotlighted here or to share resources, contact Kaitlyn Crow.

“The Volvo VNR Electric marks a significant step forward for electromobility in an industry that we are committed to leading as it undergoes rapid, significant change,” Volvo Trucks North America President Peter Voorhoeve said in a statement. “Volvo Trucks believes and invests in sustainable electromobility. Our deep understanding of the transportation ecosystem — the technology, infrastructure and applications in the trucking industry — have enabled us to deliver a solution that is both advanced yet easy to own and operate.” Read Full Article >>>