The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has appointed Josh Sims as Vice President, Partnerships, effective June 16.

Reporting to Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement Jason Wells, Sims will direct growth strategy and partner engagement for IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division. He will collaborate on divisional marketing efforts with a special focus on elevating the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) as a premier resource for manufacturing optimization services and partnership opportunities.

 

“I am thrilled to join IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement team. The mission and quality of the team of professionals drew me to this role. I am looking forward to helping IALR expand partnerships for the CMA and other programs as we position Southern Virginia as a hub for innovation and manufacturing excellence.” – Josh Sims, Vice President of Partnerships, Manufacturing Advancement, IALR

Sims will lead new business development, forecasting, strategic planning, marketing and industry/partner satisfaction. This role involves building strong relationships with key stakeholders, securing follow-on business and contributing to the Manufacturing Advancement division’s strategic growth. Sims will be responsible for ensuring that IALR remains highly responsive to partner needs while expanding into new markets identified in the division’s five-year strategic plan.

“Josh combines military service, deep federal contracting expertise and a data-driven approach that will allow him to elevate the reach and impact of IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President

Sims brings more than 20 years of experience leading federal business development and rapid prototyping efforts for defense and intelligence customers, coupled with 20 years of U.S. Army service. Most recently he led a team with Riverside Research Institute supporting the Defense Innovation Unit. Sims has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Virginia and holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

“Josh’s proven ability to cultivate high-value partnerships will amplify IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division and, specifically, the CMA. By bringing Josh on board, we’re doubling down on our commitment to deliver responsive, industry-driven manufacturing solutions and services.” – Jason Wells, Executive Vice President, Manufacturing Advancement, IALR

As Virginia’s hub for high-performance manufacturing optimization and advancement, the CMA at IALR equips manufacturers to be globally competitive. The CMA empowers industry to seamlessly integrate emerging technology into their manufacturing processes, boosting efficiency, effectiveness and profitability while maximizing ROI. By promoting the CMA’s integrated capabilities and developing strategic partnerships, Sims will help market Southern Virginia as a go-to destination for advanced manufacturing innovation.

About IALR

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation with applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development efforts. IALR’s major footprint focuses on Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg and the cities of Martinsville and Danville.