Institute for Advanced Learning and Research
Driving Economic Transformation
The July 2026 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is pleased to announce that Jacob Taylor has been named Interim GO TEC Director, effective July 1. Having worked with the program since its inception, Taylor brings a track record of excellence, innovation and passion for STEM education generally and for the success of the GO TEC program.
“I care deeply about GO TEC and the impact it has on students, schools and communities across Virginia. I’m excited to lead the program through this transition. We have an incredible team, strong partnerships and a proven model that is making a difference for students across Virginia. I’m excited to help ensure GO TEC remains successful and sustainable for years to come.” – Jacob Taylor, Interim GO TEC Director, IALR
GO TEC, short for Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers, gives Virginia middle schoolers hands-on exposure to careers in strategic sectors, such as manufacturing, engineering and technology. IALR launched GO TEC as a pilot in Danville and Pittsylvania County Schools in the 2018-2019 school year. In the years since then, the program has spread throughout the Commonwealth, with 76 Virginia middle schools offering the GO TEC experience in the 2025-2026 school year. More schools across Virginia are slated to implement GO TEC in the upcoming school year.
“The long-term success of GO TEC depends on strong leadership, strategic partnerships and an unwavering commitment to students. Jake brings all three. His experience working alongside educators, industry partners and school divisions across the Commonwealth makes him the right leader to help carry GO TEC forward.” – Tely Tucker, IALR President
GO TEC has benefited from years of support through GO Virginia – an economic development initiative aimed to spur growth, diversify economies and create higher-paying jobs. As funding landscapes evolve, IALR is working toward a more self-sustaining business model over the next two years. This approach, which is informed by a third-party strategic business plan, is intended to preserve the program’s quality, integrity and longevity through a cost-sharing model that includes private-sector industry participation, school division funding, philanthropy and licensing revenue.
“GO TEC is entering a transition period that will position the program for long-term sustainability and growth. Having worked with GO TEC since its inception, Jake has the knowledge, skills and commitment to help lead GO TEC during this evolutionary period.” – Melanie Lewis, PhD., Vice President, Advanced Learning, IALR
IALR will undertake a thoughtful and strategic review of the GO TEC Director position over the coming months to ensure long-term leadership alignment with the program’s goals and priorities.
Taylor brings more than seven years of experience with the GO TEC program, having worked as a Training Coordinator for three years and Technical and Training Manager for the past four years. Before joining GO TEC, Taylor previously served as a STEM Academy Instructor for Pittsylvania County Schools and was recognized as Teacher of the Year in 2014-2015. He was also named the STEM Innovator of the Year by STARBASE Victory in 2025.
He earned his Bachelor of Science in Physics from Bridgewater College. Taylor holds endorsements in Physics and Mathematics and possesses a Commercial Driver’s License. He also serves as a member of the board of directors for the Claire Parker Foundation and is the president-elect for the Southern Piedmont Technology Council.
The GO TEC program creates a talent pipeline by introducing middle school students to careers in Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing and STEM-related fields. GO TEC curriculum engages students through specialized training modules targeting high-demand industry sectors, stimulating job growth across Virginia.
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 within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg, along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. IALR serves as the fiscal agent and program lead for GO TEC.
Artificial intelligence is here. And “AI bootcamps” and “AI training courses” are seemingly everywhere.
Those offerings are rapidly maturing to meet the needs of specific industries, organizations and departments. The best programs are designed with real-world applications purposefully built into the training experience.
That’s what the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) created: a custom, 300-hour Applied Data Science Accelerator tiered program to upskill engineers into data science practitioners. Twelve BWXT employees graduated from this pilot program on July 8.
“The Applied Data Science Accelerator Program stands out in a crowded AI training landscape by focusing on practical capability development and measurable business impact, not just conceptual learning,” said Meredith Gregory, Director of Digital Strategy and Program Management at IALR.
“We’re building a workforce that doesn’t just understand AI but uses it. This program equips our teams to apply BWXT’s unique data and expertise to real manufacturing challenges, making us faster, more precise, and more competitive. By training our people to work directly with data and models, we’re turning BWXT’s hard‑won expertise into actionable insight we can use to boost speed, cut rework, and strengthen performance.” – Shane Jacobs, General Manager, BWXT.
BWXT, which manufactures naval nuclear components and reactors, has consistently hired graduates of the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program at IALR to work at its facilities in Lynchburg, Virginia, and in Mount Vernon, Indiana. The company has also received optimization services from IALR’s CMA, which helps manufacturers deploy proven technology, strengthen processes and build workforce capability in ways that deliver results on the floor.
The idea for this accelerated program happened during a meeting between IALR and BWXT staff. Those conversations quickly went from discussing the need to outlining a possible structure and scope.
Over the next several months, seven staffers of the CMA and IALR, as well as two expert consultants, had varying levels of involvement in the program’s development and execution. BWXT provided needed insight to adapt what we were planning to their environment and by extension, manufacturing environments. The course officially launched on April 8.
“Not everyone can just create a class like this if you don’t have a good idea of what works,” Gregory said. “We pulled a lot of what works from our other workforce training programs and even machine learning and AI internship experiences we offered in the summer of 2025.”
This training equipped these 12 BWXT employees to implement AI technologies more effectively into plant operations. In short, they can manipulate data, train models, evaluate those models, and put those models into production.
While grounded in traditional lecture and assessment style instruction, the course focuses on the application of skills through an organization-selected Agile class project. This course integrates proven practices from data science, team development, and engineering education to help organizations cultivate a data science capability within their existing workforce, emphasizing both technical and soft skills.
The program was designed to train four different tiers. Graduates from this cohort were spread across tiers 2-4.
“The CMA is built around a simple idea: manufacturers achieve better outcomes when people, processes and technology advance together. This program demonstrates how developing workforce capability in parallel with digital transformation efforts can accelerate adoption and create lasting impact on the production floor.” – John Ring, Vice President, Center for Manufacturing Advancement
Throughout the program, BWXT employees provided consistent feedback about what elements of the course were working and what weren’t. They shared this feedback every day, at the end of every sprint (2 weeks) and at the midpoint.
“Pilot programs hinge on feedback and short iteration cycles. BWXT could not have been more gracious in providing invaluable feedback,” Gregory said.
Now that this curriculum is developed, the CMA stands ready to deliver this course – informed by the lessons learned during this pilot phase and customized to each customer’s needs. The Applied Data Science Accelerator Program will help more manufacturers effectively integrate AI, machine learning and applied data science into their operations.
The Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) has promoted professional machinist and educator Wesley Cifers to serve in a newly reorganized role.
As of July 1, Cifers serves as Managing Director of ATDM – a 16-week training program at IALR designed to prepare civilians from across the nation for careers building the nation’s next-generation vessels in the submarine industrial base.
“I’m delighted to name Wesley Cifers as the new Managing Director of ATDM. His experience, technical acumen and maturity made him an ideal candidate to become the leader of this critical program here on the campus of IALR,” said Telly Tucker, President of IALR.
Cifers holds more than 15 industry certifications and brings a vast array of experience and knowledge in manufacturing environments to the role. His previous private sector experience, coupled with his time in instruction, curriculum development and program management at IALR, uniquely positioned Cifers to oversee ATDM. In his most recent role, Cifers managed two major additive manufacturing training programs for the U.S. Navy and led all workforce programs for the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) at IALR, after growing through various instructional ranks within ATDM.
“Wesley is a highly credentialed journeyman machinist who started his career with a leading supplier to the federal government prior to joining IALR five years ago and has since grown and moved into the instructional and training realm at various levels. His most recent position grew many of the valuable skills that Wesley will employ in this new role, including juggling numerous high-level stakeholders, managing federal contracts and ensuring quality instruction,” said Jason Wells, IALR’s Executive Vice President, Manufacturing Advancement. “Not only does Wesley possess a balanced and intimate knowledge of the ATDM program and its many facets, but he leads with superb professionalism and integrity, making him an excellent fit for this role.”
Since its inception in 2020, ATDM has graduated over 1,530 students from 47 states, Washington D.C., Australia, Puerto Rico and Guam. The program spans all three shifts and delivers accelerated, intensive training in five key skilled trade areas in high demand by defense manufacturers and critical to national defense, including Additive Manufacturing, CNC Machining, Non-Destructive Testing (NDT), Quality Control Inspection (Metrology) and Welding.
“I am grateful to work alongside an amazing team at IALR and eager to step into a new role in further support of ATDM to see where the future takes us. Over the last 5 years, I have held several roles with varying responsibility to the program, and I am excited to bring that combined experience into my new position,” said Cifers. “This is a unique program that has changed how our country views manufacturing training and I have witnessed that in real time. This transition is not something I take lightly, and I am looking forward to returning to the ATDM team to continue pushing forward.”
The Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing program provides focused, industry-driven training to equip participants with skills critical for defense manufacturing. This initiative is funded through the National Imperative for Industrial Skills by the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment Program Office within the Office of the Undersecretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment.
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 within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville. The organization houses and leads the ATDM program with the support of various partners.
By simply stepping into a lab or meeting an instructor, prospective students and their families could witness firsthand the important roles people play in defense manufacturing. They were getting a glimpse into what their own future could look like thanks to ATDM Discovery Day. Individuals interested in the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing program at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research saw themselves learning a range of in-demand skills and a future career by attending the event on June 9, 2026.
ATDM Discovery Day gave nearly 100 guests a look inside the ATDM program. These individuals included prospective students, counselors from various school divisions, representatives from U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, workforce service organizations and at least one ATDM industry partner. Attendees got a firsthand look at the program itself, the training that comes with it and the workforce opportunities it creates within the submarine industrial base, the system of companies that contribute to the construction and sustainment of submarines. Discovery Day provided prospective students with an opportunity to ask questions and envision their future.
“I believe Discovery Day brought valuable attention to the ATDM program and highlighted the incredible opportunities available to prospective learners interested in the trades,” Makayla Baker, ATDM Welding Instructor, said. “Events like this play a vital role in inspiring individuals to pursue and advance careers in these high-demand fields.”
During the day, prospects and their guests were greeted by multiple members of the ATDM team, each speaker helping participants see how they can individually fit into the program and find a home within ATDM. Attendees learned about the skilled trades featured at ATDM and explored the training facilities at the ATDM Maritime Training Center – a modern 100,000-square-foot training facility opened across two phases in 2025 and 2026.
The ATDM training tracks:
Prospective students and their guests also met instructors and current students at the ATDM Resource fair and connected with staff members to better understand career pathways for ATDM graduates. Another highlight included using the virtual welding equipment with Chris Griffith, IALR’s Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) Training Coordinator.
Before the day was over, attendees completed key steps in the application process and received guidance on what’s next.
The ATDM Model:
ATDM Discovery Day removed barriers, provided prospective students with clarity about the program and supported each of them in their next steps. The success of Discovery Day has opened the door to more events like this in the future, helping ATDM expand access to even more students and foster engagement.
“Every career journey starts with a first step. ATDM Discovery Day gives prospective students the chance to explore, ask questions and discover that a rewarding career in defense manufacturing may be closer than they ever imagined,” Joyce Culley, ATDM Director of Recruitment and Support Services, said.
IALR has grown really fast. But, as President Telly Tucker explains, growth alone isn’t the goal.
In this conversation, Telly reflects on four years as president, sharing what it’s like to lead an organization that’s quadrupled in size, why culture matters more than ever during rapid change, and the real stories that make the work meaningful. It’s a candid look at leadership, impact and what comes next for IALR and the region.
The June 2026 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), has been named one of the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce’s inaugural 40 Under 40 honorees. He was recognized during the Chamber’s Annual Business Appreciation Dinner on May 13.
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 program celebrates emerging leaders, innovators and changemakers under 40 who live or work in Martinsville-Henry County and are leading, serving or making an impact in the community. Honorees represent some of the region’s brightest talent and are featured in the 2026 edition of Discover MHC Magazine.
“It is an honor and a privilege to receive this award from the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce alongside so many inspiring leaders in our hometown. Serving our region through education and service fuels my passion for uplifting and empowering our communities and ensuring we all have the skills and knowledge to thrive. I am grateful for the support of this community, which makes our collective progress possible.” – Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II, IALR
At IALR, Stanley oversees Wonder Community, a lifelong learning program where members meet curious people, share their passions and talents and learn new things. Frequent workshops provide members the opportunity to learn unique skills, understand topics of interest or explore new places.
Stanley also works extensively with the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program. This IALR initiative has served Southern Virginia for more than a decade by connecting individuals with opportunities to serve in schools, neighborhoods and community organizations. Originally launched as a STEM tutoring initiative, Dan River Year AmeriCorps has evolved into a multi-faceted program focused on STEM and literacy education, youth mental health and community health outreach. Members serve in classrooms, after-school programs, community sites and behavioral health settings, where they support students, lead health workshops and contribute to prevention and outreach efforts.
Through his leadership in Wonder Community and support of the Dan River Year AmeriCorps program, Stanley contributes to IALR’s mission to serve as a regional catalyst for economic transformation by fostering lifelong learning, civic engagement and workforce development.
“Brian’s creativity, innovation and dedication to transformation exemplify excellence, while his supportive nature makes a lasting impact on both colleagues, IALR and the community.” – Dana Silicki, Director, STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning, IALR
About the Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40
The Martinsville-Henry County Chamber of Commerce 40 Under 40 program recognizes emerging leaders, innovators and changemakers under 40 who live or work in Martinsville-Henry County and are leading, serving or making an impact in the community. Honorees are featured in the annual Discover MHC Magazine and recognized at the Chamber’s Business Appreciation Dinner.
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 within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
The City of Danville, in partnership with Pittsylvania County, marked a major milestone for the region on Friday, May 22, celebrating the start of construction on the Microporous lithium-ion battery separator manufacturing facility. The ceremony follows the company’s $1.6 billion investment and is expected to create more than 1,800 new jobs in Southside Virginia. Annual wages average $61,000/year.
Local stakeholders, community leaders, and elected officials gathered at the Institute for
Advanced Learning & Research, Danville, to commemorate the occasion, including Delegate Madison Whitle, Delegate Eric Phillips, Danville City Council, and the Pittsylvania County Board of Supervisors. Special remarks were delivered by John Reeves, CEO of Microporous, Danville Pittsylvania Regional Industrial Facility Authority (RIFA) Chairman Vic Ingram, and Sherman Saunders, RIFA Vice Chairman.
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Construction is expected to take 14 months, with completion targeted for Q3 2027.
Reeves said, “We’re honored to celebrate this milestone alongside the many partners who helped make this project possible. This investment reflects our confidence in Southern Virginia’s workforce, infrastructure, and future. We look forward to building lasting relationships here as we create new opportunities for families, support regional economic growth, and advance the technologies that will power the future.”
Danville Pittsylvania RIFA, which owns and oversees development of the megasite, celebrated the project as a transformative moment for the region.
RIFA Chairman Vic Ingram noted, “Not only is this a major milestone for the Southern Virginia Mega Park at Berry Hill but this is a historic day for the largest industrial park on the east coast. When I spoke at the initial announcement two years ago, I patiently longed for this day to become reality. Today, as the first shovel of dirt is moved, we all can celebrate this day as we officially welcome Microporous as our first tenant, and we look forward to a long and prosperous relationship for years to come. Welcome to Pitsylvania County.”
“Today is about opportunity for our people, for our families, and for the next generation growing up right here in this region,” remarked Saunders. “I am proud of what we have accomplished together, and I am even more excited about where we are headed.”
Microporous becomes the first tenant at the Southern Virginia Megasite at Berry Hill, the largest megasite in Virginia and the southeastern United States, marking a significant step toward positioning the region as a hub for advanced manufacturing and energy-sector innovation. The company has already earned national recognition for its impact on Southern Virginia, including honors from the Trade & Industry Development CiCi Award, designation as a Top Project by Area Development Magazine, and inclusion on Site Selection Magazine’s Top Deal in North America list.
Those interested in employment opportunities with Microporous can view open positions at: https://www.microporouscareersva.com/
About the Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism
The Danville Office of Economic Development & Tourism drives the city’s growth by recruiting and retaining businesses, supporting small business development, and fostering a dynamic environment for investment. The office also promotes Danville as a vibrant destination, showcasing the region’s unique attractions, events, and visitor experiences. The DOEDT works to strengthen the local economy and enhance quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. Learn more at www.discoverdanville.com.
About Microporous
Microporous is a global leader in the manufacturing of battery separators. Serving industries include automotive, industrial, and energy storage. The company is committed to advancing battery technology through high-performance, reliable separator solutions. Microporous maintains production facilities in Piney Flats, TN, Feistritz, Austria, and soon in Danville, VA.
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research celebrated 52 graduating students from two dual-enrollment programs during two events on May 11, recognizing the Class of 2026 from the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET) and the Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science and Technology (PGSMST).
Both programs bring high school juniors and seniors to the IALR campus for half-day, college-level instruction with students returning to their home schools in the afternoons. With more than 100 combined students on the IALR campus every day, these two programs provide a powerful model for preparing students across the region for success in college and careers, particularly in STEM fields.
“The success of these students reflects their hard work, as well as the strength of the partnerships that make programs like AET and the Governor’s School possible. Together, we are creating pathways that prepare students for college and successful careers.” Dana Silicki, Director, STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning, IALR
The Academy for Engineering and Technology, a partnership between IALR and Danville Community College serving Danville Public Schools and Pittsylvania County Schools, will celebrated its 11th graduating class. This year’s cohort includes 20 seniors, bringing the total number of graduates from IALR-based cohorts to 246.
Through a two-year dual-enrollment model, AET students earn 32 tuition-free college credits while completing advanced coursework in engineering, mathematics and English. The program is designed to give students a clear understanding of engineering as a career path while building the academic and technical foundation needed for success in college-level programs.
“The graduating class of the AET has demonstrated an outstanding work ethic and unwavering dedication throughout the past two years. Through challenging coursework, hands-on projects and collaborative problem-solving experiences, these students have consistently shown perseverance, creativity and a commitment to excellence. The skills they have developed — especially their ability to think critically, adapt and solve complex problems — have prepared them well for the opportunities and challenges ahead. As they continue their chosen academic paths, they are exceptionally well positioned for future success and meaningful contributions in their fields and communities.” – John Hatchett, Coordinator and Engineering Instructor, Academy for Engineering & Technology
Graduates from this year’s class are pursuing a range of postsecondary opportunities, with half planning to major in engineering fields. Students are enrolling at institutions such as the University of Virginia, Virginia Tech, Old Dominion University and Danville Community College, among others.
The AET Senior Breakfast at IALR brought together students, families and regional leaders to celebrate these achievements and recognize academic honors, including valedictorian Kayla Hamlett and salutatorian Jake Howard.
IALR also hosted a celebration for 32 PGSMST students who attend classes on the IALR campus. These students represent Danville Public Schools and Pittsylvania County Schools, while other Governor’s School students attend classes at Patrick & Henry Community College.
Like AET, the Governor’s School provides a half-day advanced academic experience, emphasizing research-based project-driven learning in mathematics, science and technology.
“I’m proud to celebrate the rigorous academic achievements of our graduates. They represent the next generation of leaders, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make on the world.” – Tiffiny Gravely, Director, PGSMST
In the PGSMST research class, senior students complete an extensive research project that includes literature reviews over the summer and early fall to guide their data collection, followed by several months of hands-on experimentation with mentor support. They conclude the experience by analyzing their findings and writing scientific papers, culminating in a public symposium at the IALR Conference Center, where students present their methodology, results and lessons learned.
Together, the Academy for Engineering and Technology and the Piedmont Governor’s School highlight the strength of collaborative partnerships between IALR, Danville Community College and regional school divisions.
By providing early access to college-level instruction, hands-on learning and career exploration, both programs help students graduate with a strong academic foundation, valuable college credits and the critical thinking, communication and problem-solving skills needed for future success.
The May 11 celebrations recognize not only the accomplishments of these 52 graduates but also the continued impact of programs designed to expand opportunity and strengthen the region’s future workforce.
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 within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and Danville Community College (DCC) are pleased to announce the graduation of the latest cohort of the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program.
This year’s cohort includes 11 graduates who spent the past nine months building advanced machining expertise while strengthening leadership, teamwork and problem-solving skills essential to success in modern manufacturing. Most graduates have secured employment or are actively interviewing with prospective employers while a smaller number plan to continue their studies through IMT’s transfer pathway into Old Dominion University’s Bachelor of Science in engineering technology program, concentrating in manufacturing engineering technology.
The IMT program is a collaborative, capstone-style experience developed by DCC and delivered in partnership with IALR to prepare students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing. Rather than focusing solely on classroom instruction, students work in a simulated “flow cell” environment that mirrors real-world production. They manage the full manufacturing process, from ordering materials and scheduling machine time to inspecting finished parts and meeting quality standards. This year’s cohort produced scope mounts for shotguns, fishing reels and golf putters.
Through this hands-on approach, students gain experience in multi-axis CNC programming, Lean Six Sigma principles and modern inspection techniques while also learning to communicate effectively, adapt to challenges and take ownership of outcomes.
“This program takes years of learning applicable hard skills and allows students the opportunity to mature those skills in a more realistic environment,” said Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement at IALR. “IMT graduates can immediately come in and contribute at a level that is much broader than simply standing in front of a machine and operating it.”
Employers continue to recognize the value of IMT training. Confirmed employers for this graduating class include IALR’s Center for Manufacturing Advancement, BWX Technologies, GE Aviation, Progressive Machine Works and Sandvik Coromant.
“Programs like Integrated Machining Technology demonstrate what is possible when education and industry work hand in hand to prepare students for the future,” said Dr. Cornelius Johnson, President of Danville Community College. “Through our partnership with IALR, students are gaining advanced technical skills, leadership experience, and real-world problem-solving abilities that position them for immediate success in today’s manufacturing workforce. We are incredibly proud of this 11th cohort and are excited to see the impact these graduates will make across our region and beyond.”
Throughout the program, students also focus on developing soft skills such as leadership, collaboration and conflict resolution, which help distinguish IMT graduates as they enter competitive job markets.
Graduates of the program pursue careers across a range of industries, including aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing, while others continue their academic journeys to build on their technical foundation. Many IMT alumni choose to remain in Southern Virginia, supporting regional manufacturers and contributing to long-term economic growth.
Brandon Furgurson
“Watching this cohort grow from students into confident manufacturing professionals has been incredibly rewarding. The IMT program pushes them beyond the classroom and into real-world responsibility, and they’ve proven they’re ready to step into industry and make an immediate impact.” – Brandon Furgurson, IMT Instructor, DCC
Here’s what a few members of this year’s IMT graduating class had to say:
“This program is hands-on and personal. It’s a nice experience getting to collaborate with your classmates. More people should definitely sign up for IMT.” – Massimo Bianchi, IMT Graduate
“The IMT program is bringing me more opportunities and putting more on my resume. It adds to DCC’s two-year machining program and goes beyond it.” – Ryan Lewis
“I really enjoyed learning the different styles and types of CNC Machines.” – Leah Holder, IMT Graduate
IMT is one of several workforce training programs supported and administered by IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division, which works closely with regional employers to align education with evolving industry needs.
Ryan Lewis
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research serves Virginia as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through applied research, advanced learning, manufacturing advancement, conference center services and economic development initiatives. IALR’s primary footprint includes Southern Virginia and the surrounding region.
Danville Community College is a two-year institution within the Virginia Community College System. DCC serves the City of Danville, Pittsylvania County and Halifax County. For more information about the college’s academic programs, visit www.danville.edu.
Cedric and Ethan Bond
Cedric and Ethan Bond are brothers who took very different paths before finding the same destination: training through the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program and careers at Newport News Shipbuilding.
In this episode, they talk about career crossroads, the reality of hands-on training, and why building ships for the U.S. Navy feels personal—especially with a brother currently deployed at sea.
Taurean Russell, Vice President of Information Technology at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), has been named a Top 100 Information Security Professional by OnCon, an organization that recognizes top executives and organizations worldwide.
“IALR operates at the intersection of innovation, research and workforce development with a mix of public and private sector customers and partners, which makes information security especially critical. This recognition reflects the great work happening at IALR and I’m proud to support initiatives that help ensure technology is an enabler, not a barrier, to economic transformation.” – Taurean Russell, Vice President, Information Technology, IALR
The OnCon Top 100 awards celebrate outstanding achievements of information security leaders who demonstrate innovation, exceptional leadership, industry impact and a commitment to advancing their professional communities. Winners are selected through peer and community voting, recognizing individuals who have made a measurable difference within their organizations and across their industries.
Russell joined IALR in October 2024 as the organization’s first vice president of information technology. He brings more than 20 years of specialized experience in information technology operations and cybersecurity, with a career focused on strengthening organizational resiliency and security in highly regulated environments.
“Strong cybersecurity measures simultaneously ensure data protection and enable organizational progress. The work of Russell and the entire Information Technology team ensures that IALR can continue to innovate, collaborate and lead with the assurance that our information and systems are secure.” – Dr. John Hughes, IV, Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR
Before joining IALR, Russell served as deputy chief information officer and chief information security officer at Winston-Salem State University, where he oversaw the university’s IT infrastructure and security programs. In 2023, Cyber Defense Magazine recognized him as one of the Top Global CISOs. His professional background includes leadership roles across healthcare, higher education, manufacturing and the U.S. Army with expertise spanning information security, risk management, IT operations and strategic planning.
Russell holds an associate degree, a bachelor’s degree and a Master of Science in Information Technology from American Military University.
For more information about the OnCon awards and to view the full list of winners, visit onconferences.com/awards.
OnConferences is a leading organization that connects top professionals across industries through conferences, awards and networking opportunities. Its programs promote collaboration, innovation and thought leadership, fostering growth and development within professional communities worldwide.
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 within Southern Virginia, including the counties of Patrick, Henry, Franklin, Pittsylvania, Halifax and Mecklenburg along with the cities of Martinsville and Danville.
The May 2026 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
When biosystems engineer Luis Huezo, Ph.D., launched FermentSystems, he wasn’t looking to build a laboratory from the ground up.
Instead, Huezo chose to base his new bioprocess consulting firm on the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research campus, tapping into shared infrastructure, specialized equipment and a collaborative environment designed to help companies move quickly from idea to execution.
That approach allowed FermentSystems to begin operating much more quickly, offering fermentation and bioprocess development services to clients across Virginia and beyond.
“IALR has an infrastructure already in place,” Huezo said. “There’s a chemistry lab, greenhouses, all types of infrastructure already here that make it easier for an entrepreneur to come in and start a business.”
FermentSystems now serves as yet another example of how early-stage companies can utilize IALR’s Applied Research division as both an incubator and a technical partner, accessing high-end research tools without the capital burden of building and equipping an independent facility.
FermentSystems is a technical consulting firm that helps companies develop biological products through fermentation and bioprocess engineering. Huezo works with clients who have a concept, such as producing a protein or biologically derived material, but lack the equipment or expertise to test and refine the process.
“It’s a technical consulting company for fermentation and bioprocessing,” Huezo said. “The idea is to provide fermentation process development and bioprocess engineering, along with techno-economic and sustainability analyses.”
The company supports clients across microbiology, fermentation, downstream processing and feasibility analysis, combining experimental data with modeling to assess whether a concept can scale commercially.
“Usually when companies want to produce something, they want to have a small batch they can take to investors,” Huezo said. “But to get to that first batch, you have to develop and validate the process. And that’s what we’re trying to do.”
FermentSystems focuses on early-stage process development rather than manufacturing, helping clients reach pilot-scale readiness and make informed technical and business decisions.
By locating on the IALR campus, FermentSystems gained access to bioreactors and laboratory facilities already in use for workforce training and applied research.
The bioreactor systems are the same equipment used during IALR’s annual industrial fermentation workshops, which bring together students, faculty and industry professionals for hands-on training.
That shared-equipment model dramatically shortened the company’s startup timeline.
“It’s been three weeks since I moved in, and I’m setting up the reactors to start my first runs,” Huezo said in mid-April. “If I went to a different place with no equipment, it would take much longer just to get the reactors.”
IALR’s Applied Research division offers similar flexibility to other companies on campus, with tenants able to utilize laboratory benches, desk space, greenhouse facilities, SMART Platforms and specialized labs based on their needs.
“Every company faces unique challenges. We pride ourselves on offering customized research services that address specific goals, whether you’re an emerging startup or a global enterprise.” – Scott Lowman, Ph.D., Vice President, Applied Research, IALR
FermentSystems is one of approximately 20 businesses and organizations with a permanent presence on the IALR campus — a mix that includes entrepreneurs, large manufacturers, workforce partners, economic development organizations and legacy educational institutions.
Eight companies currently lease space within Applied Research alone, ranging from early-stage ventures to established companies such as Canon Virginia.
That density of varied organizations creates what Huezo describes as an incubator-style ecosystem, where companies benefit not only from facilities but also proximity to expertise, talent and potential collaborators.
“I see it as an incubator environment,” Huezo said. “The reactors are here. The equipment is here. I need to provide chemicals and consumables, but it would be 10 times more difficult to start from zero in another building.”
Huezo said locating FermentSystems on campus also aligns with IALR’s broader economic development mission.
“By starting a company, the idea is to bring projects and collaborations here,” he said. “That is all reflected back to IALR, because one of its goals is economic development in the area.”
As FermentSystems grows, Huezo hopes to contribute to the expansion of fermentation and bioprocessing capabilities at IALR — further strengthening the campus as a launch point for applied research companies.
“Hopefully putting Danville in a position where people would think, ‘Danville —that’s where fermentation happens’” he said.
