The June 2025 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- GO TEC Experience Expanding for ’25-’26 School Year
- Connect with IALR’s Apprenticeship Experts!
- Watch updates from IALR
- Much more!
Backyard BBQ Mastery: Smoked Meats & Classic Sides
Learn the secrets to perfect smoked brisket, pork butt, ribs, and BBQ chicken in this flavor-packed class. We’ll also whip up German and country potato salads, homemade baked beans, and explore regional BBQ sauces like Kansas City and Carolina styles. Great for BBQ lovers ready to level up their cookout game!
The cost for dinner is $35 and you must have an active Wonder membership.
Registration and payment deadlines are due June 6th.
Limited to 16 members.
Presented by Chef John Clark.
IALR May 2025 Newsletter
The May 2025 edition of IALR at a Glance is packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- Registration is now open for Summer STEM Camps!
- Fourth Annual ATDM & AM CoE Summit recap
- Watch updates from IALR
- Much more!
Wonder Community – Deep Listening and Radical Vulnerability, Laugh and Play
Deep Listening and Radical Vulnerability, Laugh and Play
The connection between listening and mental wellbeing is profound. New York psychiatrist and co-founder of Narativ, Dr Paul Browde, stresses that the act of deep listening counters the isolation many of us experience. “In a world filled with noise – both literal and metaphorical – many people are starved for the experience of being truly listened to,” he says. This lack of deep listening often leads to loneliness, depression and alienation.
Listening requires vulnerability – not just from the speaker but also from the listener. Brené Brown, social researcher, author and expert on vulnerability, argues that empathy is impossible without deep listening. Empathy, she explains, involves “feeling with people,” which requires setting aside our own thoughts to understand someone else’s emotions.
Brown emphasizes that empathy is not about offering advice or fixing problems but rather about acknowledging another person’s feelings. In her TED Talk, The Power of Vulnerability, she says, “Rarely can a response make something better. What makes something better is connection.” This connection is nurtured through listening with empathy, allowing both the speaker and listener to feel more connected and understood.
Presented by Chad Martin
Registration deadline: 5/22/2025.
A minimum number of 12 participants is required, and a maximum number of participants is 30.
All Things Etiquette
Dining Etiquette- learning the essentials of table manners and proper utensil usage.
Presented by Yvette Bethel, Owner of All Forks Etiquette Consulting.
Yvette’s Why!
As a foster parent, I’ve had the privilege of caring for children from diverse backgrounds. I noticed a significant gap in their etiquette skills. Many of them had not been exposed to the social norms and manners that are essential to succeed in school settings and social gatherings. I also witnessed adults lacking some of the same skills during this realization. This sparked my passion to become an etiquette consultant. I aim to equip children and adults with the tools they need to build confidence and establish and improve positive relationships. I recognize that the benefits of etiquette extend far beyond childhood. Therefore, through my work as an etiquette consultant, I strive to create inclusive programs that address the needs of both children and adults. The emphasis is on communication, respect, honesty, and cultural awareness. Possession of these skills will create a more courteous and empathetic society, one interaction at a time.
Registration deadline: 4/16/2025.
A minimum number of four participants is required, and a maximum number of participants is 12.
The Power of Hands-On Learning
Effective learning blends theoretical instruction with real-world application. At the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR), hands-on training is a core principle across diverse programs.
“Theory is important, and it has value. However, my years working in and with educators has taught me that most learners are visual kinesthetic learners, and the most impactful learning tends to be hands-on learning.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President
This approach equips participants with practical skills and boosts their confidence in real job environments. Whether middle school students or seasoned adults, participants walk away with experiences they can immediately apply.
GO TEC: Sparking Early Curiosity
The Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program exposes middle school students to the emerging technologies shaping tomorrow’s industries. Students learn about and, more importantly, get to practice with virtual reality welding tools, desktop CNC mills, different types of robots and much more, offering a direct glimpse into in-demand careers.
“Middle school is the perfect time to spark a lasting interest in STEM. Getting to touch and try these business-relevant technologies shows that advanced concepts and careers are within reach.” – Julie Brown, Ph.D., Vice President of Advanced Learning
Dual-Enrollment Momentum
Dual-enrollment students in the Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET)—a collaboration with Danville Community College and the local school divisions—learn concepts in the classroom and apply them immediately. This balance of theory and application strengthens their problem-solving abilities and prepares them for modern challenges.
“We’ve seen impressive results when students can test what they learn right away,” Dr. Brown says. “That combination pushes them to think critically and perform with confidence.”
IALR also houses students in the Piedmont Governor’s School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology. Every year, seniors in this program participate in a senior research project, some seeking support from IALR’s Applied Research division.
ATDM: Accelerated Skills for Adults
Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) equips adult learners with the skills needed to work with Navy suppliers in the Maritime Industrial Base. In just four months, participants build foundational knowledge and participate in hundreds of hours of hands-on practice with actual machinery.
“ATDM bridges the gap between classroom insights and real-world shop floors. Graduates leave ready to excel in high-demand defense manufacturing roles.” – Jason Wells, Executive Vice President of Manufacturing Advancement
IMT: Real Manufacturing Responsibilities
In the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, developed with Danville Community College, students face the pressure of meeting manufacturing quotas and deadlines. This setup mirrors the intensity of a true manufacturing environment.
“It’s a simulated manufacturing flow cell,” Wells said. “We put these students in a position to practice how all the pieces they’ve learned come together.”
Intensive Workshops
IALR also hosts shorter programs on topics like Fanuc robotics, precision machining for instructors and industrial fermentation. These workshops blend conceptual lessons with live experimentation in a condensed timeframe.
“Our recent industrial fermentation workshop revealed how hands-on demos deepen understanding. When participants participate in the process, they gain a better understanding.” – Scott Lowman, Ph.D., Vice President of Applied Research, IALR
Lifelong Learning
The journey does not end with a certificate or first job. Through various computer training workshops and the Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning, people can refresh their skills or discover new interests at any stage.
IALR’s commitment to lifelong learning and service learning opens pathways for professionals and hobbyists alike.
Why Hands-On Learning Matters
From virtual reality welding in GO TEC® to advanced precision machining in IMT, practical immersion helps learners of all ages gain a deeper understanding. Hands-on learning is particularly beneficial in the STEM fields, as shown by many different studies, including from Purdue University and the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America. With IALR’s goal of expanding STEM Capacity, this focus on hands-on, practical learning is what drives success.
“Practical experiences let learners see immediate results,” Tucker says. “When students engage directly, they become more prepared for today’s job market.”
Connect with IALR
Culinary 101
Join the Wonder Community and Megabytes at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) for an immersive culinary experience with Chef John Clark, where you’ll learn to craft the five fundamental mother sauces (Béchamel, Velouté, Espagnole, Tomato, and Hollandaise) and perfect the essential knife cuts. Bring your knives to practice precision cutting techniques and discover how to sharpen and maintain your blades for professional-level results properly. Elevate your kitchen skills with hands-on guidance from our expert chef!
The cost for dinner is $30.
Registration and payment for dinner is due by 3.4.25
Limited to 16 members.
Presented by Chef John Clark
Wonder Community – Etching Workshop with New College Institute
Discover the art of glass etching with Wonder Community’s Brian Stanley! Bring a glass item (like a mug or cup), but make sure it’s not Pyrex, acrylic, or plastic!
Partnership with New College Insitute’s Learning is ForEver (LIFE) Program.
Members should use the NCI registration link here to register.
Registration deadline: 3/18/2025.
Wonder Community – Cricut Basics at the Ruby B. Archie Public Library Workshop
Join Brian at the Ruby B. Archie Public Library as he explains and demonstrates the popular at-home die-cutting crafting machine.
Members will need to register using the Ruby B. Archie Public Library link.
Limited to 14 spots.
*If you are not a member of the Wonder Community yet, please complete the New Member Registration Form.
Wonder Community – Physical Activity Workshop: Tai Chi
Join us for an engaging 90-minute workshop filled with practical tips, lively discussions, and a fun physical activity session to wrap things up!
Presented by REACH AmeriCorps
Registration closes on January 16th at 11 PM.
Limited to 20 spots.
IALR December 2024 Newsletter
The December 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- $1.35 Billion Project Announced
- Supporting the U.S. Navy
- ATDM Students Contribute to the Community
- Much more!
Cooking up Community: Successful Wonder Workshop
A diverse group of 15 recently gathered to make a delicious fall-themed meal while connecting with others in a supportive, fun environment.
The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning offered its fifth cooking class in partnership with Megabytes Café and the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) on Nov. 20. Chef John Clark led participants in preparing a full fall-themed meal: turkey, brussels sprouts with homemade bacon jam, stuffing and cream cheese pumpkin bars.
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The event, like previous cooking classes, was fully booked.
“It was amazing to see participants come together, not just to learn new cooking techniques, but to genuinely connect over the joy of creating a meal. Events like this truly embody the spirit of lifelong learning and community building.” – Brian Stanley, IALR Program Coordinator
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The Wonder Community, launched in 2022, offers dynamic, hands-on workshops that bring people of all ages and backgrounds together to learn new skills and share their passions. Past workshops have ranged from Cricut crafting to fishing expeditions, and the community welcomes anyone eager to keep learning.
Join the Wonder Community today to explore your passions and connect with others who love learning. Whether it’s casting a fishing line, crafting in the kitchen, or designing intricate projects, there’s something for everyone. The Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning is part of IALR’s Advanced Learning division and reflects a commitment to service and lifelong learning opportunities.
Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 2
In part two of the 3D printing class, members will receive their 3D -printed Christmas ornaments and see their Tinkercad designs brought to life. We will watch the 3D printers in action as they print miniature benches, gaining hands-on insights into the printer process and troubleshooting tips.
Hosted by Tim Holland, ATDM Precision Manufacturing Lab Technician; Jacob Taylor, GO TEC Technical & Training Manager and Chris Griffith, GOTEC Training Coordinator (Region 3).
Limited to 16
Wonder Community – Screen to Tree: 3D Printed Ornaments Part 1
In this two-part 3D printing class, members will learn the basics of 3D design using Tinkercad, an intuitive tool for creating digital models. Part one introduces members to the essentials of 3D printing technology, exploring how it works and its various applications while guiding them through their first Tinkercad projects to create Christmas ornaments.
Hosted by Tim Holland, ATDM Precision Manufacturing Lab Technician; Jacob Taylor, GO TEC Technical & Training Manager and Chris Griffith, GOTEC Training Coordinator (Region 3).
Limited to 16
IALR November 2024 Newsletter
The November 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- 2024 Annual Report Shows Impact of Partnerships
- Third Annual Southern Virginia Housing Summit
- IALR Named Apprenticeship Ambassador by U.S. Department of Labor
- Much more!
Wonder Community – Winter Painting
Create a step-by-step painting of a winter-themed painting.
Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator.
Registration closes on January 21st at 11 PM.
Limited to 15 spots.
Wonder Community – Sublimation Open Lab
Members will be able to use the sublimation printer for an Open Lab workshop.
Members will be responsible for bringing their own blanks (i.e., cups, glasses and shirts). Heat presses for mugs and shirts will be available. If you need assistance in looking for acceptable, blanks please contact us for more information.
Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II.
Limited to 12.
Bountiful Bites: November Cooking Class
Join the Wonder Community and Megabytes at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) as Chef John Clark teaches us how to make turkey, brussels sprouts with homemade bacon jam, stuffing, and cream cheese pumpkin bars.
Cost for dinner is $20.
Registration and payment for dinner is due by 11.13.24
Limited to 18 Spots.
IALR, a Proven Partner: 2024 Annual Report Highlights
“I love that IALR moves at the speed of business. Things happen here fast.” – Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin
The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is proud to announce the release of its Annual Report for Fiscal Year 2024, covering the period from July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024. This year was defined by strategic collaboration that drove collective innovation, growth and success across Southern Virginia.
“At IALR, our success is not achieved in isolation but through meaningful collaborations across sectors.” – Telly Tucker, IALR President
Below are some of our valued partners:
- Commonwealth of Virginia
- U.S. Navy and U.S. Department of Defense
- Economic and workforce development organizations
- Local governments and school divisions across Virginia
- Community colleges, universities and higher education institutions
- Local and global businesses and companies
- AmeriCorps and other service agencies
- Civic groups and nonprofits
- Private foundations and funding partners
Here are the key highlights that showcase how our work and partnerships are making a difference.
Career Readiness Starts Early
One of the most significant achievements last year was the expansion of the Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program. Through a network of partnerships involving public schools, higher education and industry leaders, over 6,000 Virginia students received hands-on career introductions. GO TEC continues to inspire students and build dependable talent pipelines for strategic sectors, ensuring our youth are prepared for tomorrow’s careers.
GO TEC curriculum will be taught in 52 middle schools across the Commonwealth of Virginia during the 2024-2025 academic year.
“GO TEC is awesome because it allows students to explore careers and equipment that they would not have access to otherwise.” – Amy Maloskey, GO TEC Teacher, Rural Retreat Middle School, Wythe County
Expanding Work-Based Learning Opportunities
The Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program saw remarkable progress, supporting the creation of apprenticeship programs across nontraditional sectors. This year marked the launch of Virginia’s first Registered Apprenticeship programs for EMTs and paramedics. The program’s success demonstrates the importance of partnerships between employers, training providers and community organizations to meet our region’s workforce needs.
In partnership with IALR, the Danville Life Saving Crew – the primary Emergency Medical Services provider for the City of Danville – signed 13 individuals as Virginia’s first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) registered apprentices during an October ceremony.
ExTRA Impact in Numbers:
- 50 new apprentices hired.
- 12 new Registered Apprenticeship programs created.
- Virginia’s first EMT and paramedic Registered Apprenticeship launched.
IALR was also selected to lead the Virginia Talent + Opportunity Partnership (V-TOP) Region 3 Regional Work-Based Learning Collaborative. This initiative develops opportunities for employers and students to connect through work-based learning – and prepares both students and employers for those opportunities.
Manufacturing Training Programs
The Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program continues to grow in partnership with the U.S. Navy, rapidly training talent for the defense industry. Approximately 328 students graduated across four cohorts in the 2024 fiscal year.
By 2025, the ATDM program aims to graduate 800 to 1,000 students annually, solidifying the region’s status as a hub for advanced manufacturing training.
“ATDM’s ability to refine and scale to meet our urgent workforce needs is crucial to building America’s submarine fleet. Together, we’re not just training workers, we’re securing America’s maritime future.” – Erica Logan, Maritime Industrial Base Director for Workforce Development
Additionally, the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, a legacy initiative of IALR and Danville Community College (DCC), remains a cornerstone of our manufacturing training efforts.
Advancing Economic Development in Southern Virginia
In collaboration with local governments, the Virginia Economic Development Partnership and the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance, our Economic Development team contributed to significant economic progress in the region. Over $212 million in new capital investments and the creation of 253 new jobs were key outcomes this year, providing a solid foundation for future economic growth. IALR also hosted essential events such as the 2023 Southern Virginia Regional Housing Summit and the 2024 Workforce Solutions Summit to support long-term development.
“The efforts of the SVRA and the many regional partners should be considered best practices for other communities and regions to follow.” – Edward D. Ober, Grant Management Associates
Advancing Additive Manufacturing
Through a series of strategic initiatives, IALR is advancing additive manufacturing (AM) technology, equipping end users with the skills needed to leverage these capabilities, and driving the growth of additive manufacturing across Southern Virginia. Much of this work is in partnership with the U.S. Navy through the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) and Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR).
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Initiatives in Additive Manufacturing:
- Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM): Training adult learners with foundational skills in AM — alongside four other trades — in just four months.
- Naval Aviation School for Additive Manufacturing (NASAM): Training active-duty military personnel in two tiers of AM technologies in just six weeks.
- Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM CoE): Developing AM technologies by creating technical data packages for parts the U.S. military needs. This project is located within IALR’s Center for Manufacturing Advancement.
- Additive Manufacturing & Advanced Materials Tech Hub (AM2 Tech Hub): Supporting Virginia as a hub through our membership in Virginia’s AM2 Tech Hub, dedicated to establishing Virginia as a leader in additive manufacturing and advanced materials adoption.
By combining training, technology development and partnerships, IALR is making significant strides in establishing Southern Virginia as a leading hub for additive manufacturing.
Collaborative Optimization for Manufacturers
As Virginia’s hub for high-performance manufacturing optimization and advancement, the Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) equips manufacturers to be globally competitive. The CMA at IALR is the destination for innovative manufacturers ready to optimize their operations and scale. With state-of-the-art facilities and technology—including a CNC Machining Innovation Lab, Industry 4.0 Integration Lab and Precision Metrology Lab – the CMA is helping clients and partners optimize operations and scale.
Breakthroughs in Applied Research
IALR’s Applied Research division offers various services in controlled environment agriculture (CEA), analytical chemistry, biotechnology and life sciences. These include conducting contract research, providing chemistry testing services and supporting biotechnology development—all aimed at meeting the needs of industry partners and advancing the scientific community.
“IALR has provided Canon the environment and expertise to grow plants under various stress conditions in an effort to understand how these stresses present themselves in the plants. IALR is unique in this capability.” – Benjamin Welch, Principal Engineer, Canon
Conference Center Growth
Equipped with state-of-the-art and flexible facilities, the IALR Conference Center experienced impressive growth, hosting over 30,000 guests last year. This increase is a testament to its role as a vital space for collaboration across business, education and community sectors.
“The IALR Conference Center offers a turnkey experience and state-of-the-art technology to deliver a high level of professionalism and engagement. Their staff are accommodating, easy to work with and attentive to the details.” – Stephanie Mann, Center for Early Success
STEM, Service and Lifelong Learning
IALR’s Advanced Learning team collaborates with numerous partners to increase STEM capacity, promote lifelong learning, and provide regional service-learning opportunities. These initiatives contribute to a better Southern Virginia where all can thrive.
- 16,214 hours served by Dan River Year and REACH AmeriCorps members with partner schools, nonprofits and more.
- 519 learners participated in computer training and Wonder Community of Lifelong Learning workshops.
- 177 future innovators engaged in Summer STEM Camps at IALR.
“IALR is an exceptional and long-standing partner to Serve Virginia. The services they provide through their AmeriCorps program, Dan River Year, are impactful and make a real difference in the communities they serve.” – Samantha Lukasiewicz, AmeriCorps Manager
Growing Campus to Meet Regional Needs
FY 2024 was notable for the growth of IALR’s campus and support services. The number of team members nearly doubled to meet increasing demands, reflecting the strength of the partnerships and the impact IALR has cultivated in Southern Virginia. With new facilities like the Navy’s National Training Center opening in early 2025, IALR is poised to continue driving regional growth and innovation.
“The near doubling of our team and the expansion of our campus highlight the incredible momentum we’ve gained through strategic internal and external collaboration. With new facilities like the Navy’s National Training Center on the horizon, IALR’s IT, Facilities and other support services ensure seamless operations for efficient growth and regional success for years to come.” – John H. Hughes, IV, Ed.D, Executive Vice President, Operations, IALR
A political subdivision of the Commonwealth of Virginia, IALR is governed by a Board of Trustees.
“As we review another year of strong financial performance, it’s clear that our partnerships and strategic initiatives deliver real value to the region. Our board remains dedicated to guiding IALR toward continued success, ensuring that every dollar invested helps drive meaningful economic transformation in Southern Virginia.” – Donald W. Merricks, Chairman, IALR Board of Trustees
IALR October 2024 Newsletter
The October 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- 3,600+ Students Attend Career ChoICE Youth Expo West
- The Mind Behind the Iconic IALR Building: Dewberry’s Larry Hasson
- CEA Summit East Sparks Innovation and Collaboration
- Much more!
Canva Tips & Tricks
Join us for an exciting Intro to Sublimation workshop, where you’ll learn the basics of transferring vibrant designs onto various surfaces using heat and sublimation ink. This hands-on session will cover essential techniques, materials, and equipment to help you create custom apparel, mugs, and more!
Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II.
Limited to 12.
Intro to Sublimation Printing
Join us for an exciting Intro to Sublimation workshop, where you’ll learn the basics of transferring vibrant designs onto various surfaces using heat and sublimation ink. This hands-on session will cover essential techniques, materials, and equipment to help you create custom apparel, mugs, and more!
Presented by Brian Stanley, Program Coordinator II.
Limited to 12.
IALR September 2024 Newsletter
The September 2024 edition of IALR at a Glance is jam-packed with exciting news and updates! Learn more about…
- IALR Supporting Industrial Fermentation
- CMA Achieves ISO Certification
- IALR Interns Make a Real Impact
- Much more!
Pasta Palooza: September Cooking Class
Join the Wonder Community and Megabytes at the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) as Chef John Clark teaches us how to make linguine with meat sauce, roasted zucchini, garlic knots, and classic cannoli.
Cost for dinner is $20.
Registration and payment for dinner is due by 9.11.24
Limited to 18 Spots.
