The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) serves as a regional catalyst for economic transformation. The mission will be accomplished through applied research, advanced learning, economic development, advanced manufacturing, and conference services.

To realize Southern Virginia as home to a dynamic economy where all can live and thrive.

Purpose, Partnership, Collective Ownership, Diversity and Inclusion, Communication and Respect, Community Engagement

Applied Research Division

The Applied Research division continues to support IALR’s mission to drive economic transformation by partnering with academic, industry, and governmental entities to drive innovation, support life science manufacturing, and transform agriculture in the region and beyond. Primary focus areas include controlled environment agriculture, agriculture and life sciences manufacturing biotechnology, analytical chemistry, polymer science testing, and robotics and computer vision. IALR’s research division has established over 80 non-disclosure agreements with various companies and works collaboratively with global entities to fulfill the mission.

Controlled Environment Agriculture

The Virginia Tech-IALR Controlled Environment Agriculture Innovation Center, a partnership of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and Virginia Tech, is a research hub and agricultural technology training center for the CEA industry. Since its start in 2020, the VT-IALR CEA Innovation Center has emerged as a pioneering model for collaborative innovation in the CEA sector.  Using the IALR’s unique platform as a state-affiliated entity, the Center bridges business, academic, economic development, and workforce development interests.

The Center’s strategic partnership with Virginia Tech, particularly with the School of Plant and Environmental Sciences and the Department of Mechanical Engineering, provides CEA businesses unparalleled access to a diverse array of globally recognized subject matter experts and leading-edge translational research capabilities. Spanning over 46,000 square feet, the VT-IALR CEA Innovation Center houses facilities encompassing laboratories, offices, and greenhouse spaces devoted to biology, chemistry, robotics, data science, and hydroponic research in plant science.  Partnering companies benefit from a comprehensive suite of services, including IP-friendly and low-cost contract research, ISO-certified chemistry testing, access to bench and greenhouse spaces, and experts for guidance. While the above capabilities and partnerships highlight a competitive industry-focused research capacity, current small-scale internship programs and entrepreneurship support are presently pilot-scaled and have tremendous room for growth. The Virginia Tech Center for Economic and Community Engagement helped develop the CEA Strategy and Roadmap in GO Virginia Region 3, which identified several strategic needs and opportunities.

Agriculture and Life Sciences Manufacturing Related Biotechnology

The foundation for this center is rooted in IALR’s library of bacterial strains, advanced imaging initiative, and state-of-the-art biology and chemistry laboratories and research greenhouses. The library has garnered interest from innovative industry leaders and generated a licensing agreement with Indigo Ag, a multinational crop science company named a 2017 Technology Pioneer by the World Economic Forum. The Forum highlights early-stage companies involved in the design, development, and deployment of new technologies and innovations poised to have a significant impact on business and society.

By focusing on collaboration to spur innovation, this center brings together expertise from various entities to leverage funding at the local, regional, and national levels, creating a pipeline of products and licensing opportunities for partnering companies and a self-sustaining business model for IALR. In addition, the center serves as a resource to regional industries, farmers, and universities, partnering to solve agriculturally important challenges as society demands safer and more sustainable food cultivating practices.

In addition to the extraordinary scientific opportunity the center presents, a strong workforce training component is integrated into the program. Through internships, fellowships, and grant-funded educational opportunities, the center will provide a place for people in Southern Virginia to learn the skills needed for 21st century jobs in biological sciences, computer sciences, and robotics.

Analytical Chemistry Testing and Support

The chemistry research group at IALR specializes in providing analytical methodology development and chemical testing services to help speed decision making processes, quantify the efficacy of products under development, and provide access to state-of-the-art equipment to catalyze regional economic development. IALR works to develop analytical methods for analyzing small molecules as well as natural health and nutraceutical products.

IALR’s cutting-edge facility and instruments, coupled with its research team, are capable of serving the regional agricultural, biotech, chemical, pharmaceutical and natural product industries with a vast array of analytical testing services. Services include Quality Control (QC) testing and QC release, stability studies, method development, and optimization and validation.

Advanced Materials Testing and Support

Equipped with polymer testing and characterization capabilities, IALR’s high-tech advanced materials labs are ideally suited to support industry needs. Private manufacturers as well as universities have utilized the polymer labs to solve and prevent complex problems across various industries and sectors. Some local industries also utilize the analytical and testing labs for identification of recyclable materials and to prepare new products from the recycled materials.

Leveraging Facilities and Expertise to Support Economic Development and Industry Growth

In addition to the above activities, the Applied Research Division offers intellectual property-friendly contract research and testing services in biology, chemistry, controlled environment agriculture, and polymer science. IALR also offers bench space and machine use to support local industry growth.

Spotlight on the CEA Summit East in partnership with Indoor Ag-Con

Following the success of its debut edition in October 2022, which brought together more than 200 attendees from 28 states, the CEA Summit East will continue to foster connections and collaboration among growers, educators, scientists, extension specialists, suppliers, engineers, tech specialists, architect/developers, and other industry members.

The world of research and development is changing rapidly and IALR is poised to be a leader by promoting cross-fertilization between multi-actor innovation initiatives.

Advanced Learning Division

The Advanced Learning division delivers educational and talent development initiatives centered on meeting the needs of regional employers. As the region’s epicenter for training and educating a skilled workforce, IALR collaborates with numerous partners to increase STEM capacity, connect students to careers, and promote lifelong and service learning across the region.

As of July 2024, the division had 18 full-time staff, 25 AmeriCorps members, three interns and no contractual staff. The Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering Careers (GO TEC®) program is a talent pathway initiative that introduces middle school students to strategic sectors like precision machining, welding, IT coding, networking, controlled environment agriculture, automation and robotics, and others. This long-term initiative is currently in 42 K12 divisions and 53 middle schools in Virginia. Plans for expansion of GO TEC programming may exceed the 60-school division mark by 2026. Advanced Learning also provides lifelong learning opportunities through programs facilitated by partnerships with community organizations. These programs, Regional Engagement to Advance Community Health (REACH), AmeriCorps, Wonder Community, and summer camps are offered to a diverse population.

Economic Development Division

Powering progress for our region is a constant focus of the Economic Development division, which works tirelessly to attract, retain and grow industry in Southern Virginia. In partnership with the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) and other economic developers, the division supports a multitude of transformative efforts. Whether the need is marketing of the region’s top assets, providing meeting space and advanced technology to accommodate prospect meetings, or offering rapid-launch space to expedite startup times for new industry, the Economic Development division and SVRA stand ready to lead the way.

In addition, IALR office space is provided for local, regional, and state prospect meetings, providing an opportunity to learn more about IALR’s applied research, advanced learning, and workforce development programs that could benefit their company. Companies are also provided launch space adjacent to research and workforce programs while they complete their new facility buildouts in the region, avoiding startup delays. As a result of these combined efforts, there has been a 75% increase in prospect leads and within the past fiscal year, the Southern Virginia localities together have successfully attracted two new companies and supported four expansion projects for a total of $26.77 million in capital investment.

Manufacturing Advancement Division

IALR’s Manufacturing Advancement division focuses on meeting and exceeding the optimization and workforce needs of new and existing industry to help them do just that. From its revolutionary home facility, the Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining on IALR’s campus, the division employs the latest technology and strong partnerships to generate a highly skilled workforce. The Manufacturing Advancement division spearheads Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM), a flagship, growing training program that prepares adult workers to support the defense industrial base. Plus, the division offers extensive resources and services, which includes the Center for Manufacturing Advancement, a collaborative space for technology companies and manufacturers to optimize processes, integrate emerging technologies and discover next-generation capabilities. 

Key Areas of Focus

1. Investigation of Emerging Technologies:
   
   
   
   • Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA): This facility investigates and applies cutting-edge technologies, including a state-of-the-art Industry 4.0 Integration Lab.  With project-based spaces that parallel the paths of the workforce training efforts, our finger is constantly on the pulse of what is having impact in industry. This provides a unique vantage point for our optimization project efforts for industry partners, as well as curriculum creation in our work-force development efforts.
   
   
   • Naval Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence (AM COE): The CMA plays a crucial role in modernizing maritime parts manufacturing processes and integrating these advancements into educational curricula. The project centers around taking antiquated slow manufacturing processes and modernizing them for the Navy.  The work done here will then be validated and pushed into industry as the latest technology. 
   
   
   
   


2. Applied Research and Optimization Projects:
   
   
   
   • The CMA’s research and optimization labs focus on solving real-world challenges faced by industry partners. This work ensures that manufacturing processes are continuously improved and aligned with the latest technological advancements.
   
   
   
   


3. Workforce Development:
   
   
   
   • Gene Haas Center for Integrated Machining: Celebrating its 10th anniversary, this cornerstone program, in collaboration with Danville Community College, offers a unique progressive precision machining training model. It features a full-scale manufacturing flow cell for immersive learning, integrating automation, robotics, and Industry 4.0 technologies.
   
   
   • HTEC Haas Training Program: As one of only seven nationwide, this "train the trainer" program equips educators with the skills needed to teach precision machining. It keeps pace with advancements in Haas technology, ensuring consistent and high-quality training across the country.
   
   
   • Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) Program: This intensive 16-week program trains transitioning military, underemployed, unemployed, and underprivileged individuals in five critical skill paths: CNC Machining, Metrology, Welding, Additive Manufacturing, and Non-Destructive Testing. With a target to produce 800-1,000 workers per year by FY25, it has already achieved a high placement rate and demonstrates significant diversity improvements when compared to industry standards.
   
   
   
   

Future Goals and Expansion of Manufacturing Advancement

• New Facility and Full Operational Capacity: By FY26, the ATDM program will operate from a newly constructed facility, focusing on long-term sustainability and national expansion. This will include startup guidance, operational support, curriculum development, instructional training, and student services to address the national skills gap.


• Custom Workforce Curriculum Development: The department is expanding its services to develop tailored training programs for specific industries or companies, exemplified by the Naval Aviation School for Additive Manufacturing (NASAM) program for active-duty military personnel.

Value Proposition

The Manufacturing Advancement division positions itself as a premium provider of precision machining training, skilled labor training, and technological research. Its ongoing engagement with industry partners, active collaboration with educational institutions, and commitment to continuous self-evaluation ensure that it remains at the forefront of manufacturing advancement and workforce development.

This comprehensive approach not only supports economic transformation in Southern Virginia but also sets a benchmark for manufacturing education and industry collaboration nationwide.

The IALR Conference Center

Catalyzing collaboration, networking and knowledge sharing, the IALR Conference Center

serves as Southern Virginia’s premier event venue. The Center’s full suite of services includes

flexible spaces, modern technology, customized catering and comprehensive support. From

intimate lunch meetings to multi-day conferences hosting hundreds, the IALR Conference

Center provides experiences tailored to guests’ needs.

Serving excellence is at the core of the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) Conference Center staff’s every move. State-of-the-art flexible meeting spaces, cutting-edge technology, appetizing cuisine and expert staff help transform our region’s economy by attracting more than 30,000 event attendees from across the globe to Southern Virginia.

With more than 25,000 square feet of flexible meeting space, the IALR Conference Center has the space to accommodate any group’s needs in a modern environment with advanced technological capabilities including professional board rooms; a 135-seat, tiered Executive Auditorium; an 8,400-square-foot Great Hall for conferences and large banquets; and a 3,800-square-foot Atrium for receptions. In FY 2024, both the IALR Conference Center and Megabytes Café experienced significant growth, reflecting their rising popularity and the quality of services offered.

Collaborative Partnerships

IALR leadership has created dynamic pillars of success that overflow with opportunity.

As growth and success continue, the increased need for coordination, communication,

and collaboration persists in all areas of the organization. The team capacity for this

leadership intention is limited; however, opportunities for efficiencies between divisions are

underleveraged. There is untapped potential to increase impact due to missed opportunities

for inter-divisional collaboration. An unnecessary sense of scarce resources further limits

collaboration and regional impact to attract increased funding growth.

Some of our countless and valued key partners include:

• Commonwealth of Virginia


• U.S. Navy and U.S. Department of Defense


• Economic and workforce development organizations (Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA), Virginia Economic Development Partnership (VEDP), USEDA


• Local governments and school divisions across Virginia


• GO Virginia Region 3


• Danville Community College, Patrick and Henry Community College


• Virginia Tech, Averett University,


• Higher education institutions


• Virginia Future Farmers of America


• Hitachi Energy South Boston, Phillips Corporation, other global businesses and companies


• AmeriCorps


• Civic groups and nonprofits

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research has served as a catalyst for economic growth and transformation in Southern Virginia since 2002. IALR brings together people, talent, mindpower, infrastructure, technology, resources, and so much more to benefit organizations and individuals across the region. Today, IALR enjoys a strong reputation built through high-caliber talent, a prestigious board, and excellent facilities. Challenges often stem from untapped potential to better utilize assets to further IALR’s mission as a catalyst for economic transformation.

Drawing from our region’s agricultural and manufacturing roots, we apply the same work ethic and entrepreneurial spirit to transform Southern Virginia into a hub of business vitality that serves the entire country and beyond. We aspire to build a dynamic economy that attracts innovators and risk takers who know they can thrive here. We strive for an economy that cultivates and enriches businesses seeking growth, evolution, and resilience, as well as one that is home to a highly skilled workforce capable of turning an idea or a vision into reality. We believe a vibrant regional community is one that provides opportunity for all and thrives because of its diversity of talent, ideas, and perspectives – a place where everyone can succeed. Our vision is for Southern Virginia to be a place where creativity and ingenuity are not only welcomed but expected, and where the desire for progress is never satisfied.

Advanced Learning, striving to create opportunities, awarded 16 $1,000 STEM-H scholarships to regional high school graduates, supported 13 summer interns, and placed 32 additional high school students in internships. Six educators participated in the IALR EXCITE (teacher externship) program, and the team registered 12 new apprentices (Presto, Owens-Illinois and Tekabyte) and developed two new apprentice program registrations  – DMA Floors and Rockwood Specialties. Two new private related technical instruction providers were approved: Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) and Not Built 2 Break. The division offered five STEM summer camps for 106 students, four at IALR and one at Brooks Crossing in the GO TEC® lab; provided the Next generation Of Work (NOW) Teamship program to students from Norfolk State and Virginia Wesleyan; and was awarded $302,690 from GO Virginia, with support from Region 3 (Per Capita), for a GO TEC® expansion to install middle school labs in Brunswick and Henry counties. EO's Region 1 GO TEC® expansion per capita grant was approved to establish five new GO TEC classrooms. The division provided an Advanced Learning overview and GO TEC® Training Lab tour to: Delegate Eric Phillips, Lead Virginia, Virginia Rural Leadership Institute, Deputy Secretary of Labor Nicole Overley and Andrew Reedy (Virginia Works), as well as the Sorensen Institute Political Leaders Program. Advanced Learning plans to begin several initiatives in the upcoming quarter (FYQ1), including GO TEC® Teacher Training in GO Virginia Regions 1, 3, and 5, hosting the GO Virginia State Board retreat and meeting Sept. 9 – 10, 2024, and leading the Career Expo West event Sept. 25 – 26.

In Manufacturing Advancement, the ATDM program has now graduated more than 600 students YTD; 101 students have been placed into the submarine industrial base (SIB)/defense industrial base (DIB) in the months of May, June, and July. July saw record levels of industry participation in our job fair with 40 companies being represented; 30 new companies have been engaged, bringing the total to date to over 300. The team also followed up on nearly 20,000 active leads and processed over 1,000 applications.

The Naval Aviation School for Additive Manufacturing (NASAM) started and completed its third six-week cohort of active-duty personnel with cohorts 4 and 5 already filled; there are 36 total graduates of this program and a goal of 156 in FY25. Integrated Machining in Technology started its 10th cohort with 14 students, an over 27% increase over the last cohort. The Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) achieved ISO global quality certification and machined over 100 parts in support of the Navy's Additive Manufacturing Center of Excellence; 83 parts have been delivered to the Navy; 49 parts were for sustainment/fleet support and placed into use. The Defense Manufacturing Community Support Program (DMCSP) has 569 students enrolled in Old Dominion University coursework leading them to a Manufacturing Engineering Technology degree. The division supported our first Sea Cadet program to expose JROTC Naval Cadets to engineering and technology pathways and presented at the National Haas HTEC Conference to a strong response. IALR and regional partners continue to be collectively recognized as a national leader in workforce development and training.

The CMA will be used to continue support of Virginia manufacturers in their pursuit of manufacturing optimization and innovation. (The CMA offers technical expertise, lab space, equipment, and a collaborative environment to help existing and new Virginia manufacturers increase productivity that has direct economic impact; the CMA serves as a centralized resource of emerging, production-ready technologies to help drive success for Virginia manufacturers). The CMA will allow businesses in Virginia to be globally competitive through innovations in current and new manufacturing processes, supporting the strategic goals of IALR.

Additionally, the Integrated Machining Technology (IMT) program, a legacy initiative of IALR and Danville Community College (DCC), continues to be a cornerstone of our manufacturing training efforts. In partnership with DCC, the IMT program graduated nine students from this advanced, intense curriculum as part of its ninth cohort this year, further strengthening the skilled workforce pipeline critical to the region’s economic growth.

IALR’s economic development engine, led by the Southern Virginia Regional Alliance (SVRA) has worked to be a catalyst for economic transformation since 2017. Impact metrics from FY 2017 through FY 2024 show 31 new companies, 36 expansions, 5,808 new jobs and $1.794 billion in capital investment. SVRA and IALR are focused on being Virginia’s go-to partner for business and economic growth. SVRA has hosted several summits on housing, infrastructure development, childcare, site development, and sector support. They also provide research and data for prospects and interested parties to review and consider related to the Southern Virginia region.

Synopsis of current IT state:

The IT infrastructure has changed significantly over the course of the last two years, with a large focus on preventive security and alerting. With the expansion of IALR’s footprint, new measures are being implemented, with the help of AI, to better understand log data from servers that can report anomalies. An emphasis has been placed on visibility into all aspects of IT which gains us the ability to take preemptive actions and better gauge utilization and network congestion.

Another large effort has been placed on office efficiency and automation of tasks for IT and other departments. Through scripting and other programmatic methods, we have been able to add value to IALR division processes and discover new efficiencies.

IALR has adopted an additional A/V network. This network, which is exclusive to audio/video equipment, is solely devoted to linking differing A/V equipment across the buildings and campus. This A/V network gives us the ability to offer consistent solutions between conference rooms across campus.

IALR IT has implemented a hybrid approach to cloud solutions for needs such as data sharing, backups, email, and security. Cloud solutions are considered based on security, desired features, and cost.

IALR’s future technology needs include:

• More funding for subscription-based technologies. This has increased significantly in recent years due to companies like Cisco embracing the subscription models for their products.


• Lifecycle support for existing A/V equipment. Product lifecycles in A/V have been extended more than prior years. Though we are getting more years of use out of products, the refresh costs have been increasing year over year.


• Another focus includes lecture capture equipment required for automating the recording and posting of lectures to the student audience for ATDM, Academy for Engineering and Technology (AET), and Governor’s School students on campus.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) is dedicated to cultivating a dynamic, innovative, and supportive work environment that aligns with our mission to drive economic transformation. As of September 3, 2024, our organization comprises 123 full-time and 3 part-time employees. We anticipate this number will increase to 160 full-time employees by December 31, 2024, and to 220 employees by June 30, 2026. Our workforce's average age is currently 41, representing a well-balanced mix of experience and fresh perspectives.

Key Concerns and Strategic Focus

1. Managing Increased Headcount: As our staff grows, we recognize the necessity for additional resources to effectively support our expanding team. We will assess and enhance our infrastructure, technology, and administrative processes to ensure they scale with our growth. This includes investing in HR systems, optimizing onboarding processes, and expanding professional development programs to support both current and new employees.

1. Mitigating Turnover Risks: Maintaining a stable turnover rate is crucial during this period of expansion. Our strategy includes reinforcing employee engagement initiatives, offering competitive benefits, and providing clear career development opportunities. We will conduct regular pulse surveys to gauge employee satisfaction, promptly addressing any emerging concerns. Our target is to maintain a turnover rate below 5%, ensuring continuity and preserving institutional knowledge.

1. Addressing Workforce Challenges: We are mindful of the difficulties in sourcing skilled technical talent, especially in the Manufacturing Advancement division. To tackle this, we will collaborate closely with educational institutions and workforce development programs at the local, state, and national levels to create a robust pipeline of qualified candidates. This approach may include internships, apprenticeships, and targeted recruitment efforts to attract individuals with the necessary technical skills.

1. Navigating Rising Wages: The rising wage demands in the current market present a budgetary challenge. To attract and retain top talent, we will regularly conduct market analyses to ensure our compensation packages remain competitive. Additionally, we will explore innovative compensation strategies, including performance-based incentives and non-monetary benefits, to provide value to our employees while maintaining financial sustainability.

Staffing

Authorized Maximum Employment Level (MEL)                0

Salaried Employees                                                                56

Wage Employees (hourly part-time)                                      3

Contracted Employees                                                            2

Salaried Non-Exempt                                                             67

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research’s (IALR) Main campus building contains administrative offices, educational classrooms, research areas, an auditorium, and a conference center. The building houses spaces available for lease to entities engaged in research, boardrooms, shipping and receiving, and related activities. Over 20 years old, IALR Main is a high traffic building with increased maintenance and facilities needs.

A modification and expansion of uninterruptible power supply to support disaster recovery and prevent loss of data is required to bring IALR into full compliance with Virginia’s Continuity of Operations Plan (COOP) and disaster recovery standards.

Long-term growth for the IALR campus involves additional resources to accommodate programs that attract high technology enterprises. The extra space will house funded research projects, research services, conference center expansion, and new advanced manufacturing technologies.

• Research
  
  
  
  • While the number of partnerships, contract research projects, testing agreements, secured grants, and rentals have increased over the last several years, these areas are very competitive and may limit growth opportunities. To mitigate these issues, the applied research division is pursuing a multifaceted and multi-partner expansion focused on controlled environment agriculture. Activities include entrepreneurship support, workforce development at the K12, Community College, and University level, and expanded contract research space.
  
  
  
  

• Advanced Learning
  
  
  
  • The Southern Region of Virgnia remains fiscally and economically stressed. While there are profound areas of revitalization and improvement, many localities continue to experience poverty and housing disparities. These factors weigh on the expansion and implementation of Advanced Learning programs. Even so, aspects of the overall program (like GO TEC®), are desired in other school divisions. Unfortunately, school divisions must work to secure funding that supports interventions such as this. More administrators and teachers are needed for K12 and adult learning programming. Associated issues of childcare, transportation, food insecurity, and health remain areas of concern.
  
  
  
  

• Economic Development
  
  
  
  • Critical factors influencing business decisions and site selection, especially for industries tied to energy, the economy, and global supply chains:
    
    
    
    • 1) Electricity and Infrastructure:  The increasing demand for electric infrastructure, fueled by the growth of data centers, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence, is creating a strain on utility providers.  This challenge is impacting company site selection, as businesses prioritize access to reliable energy sources.  Southern Virginia, with its abundant supply of water, gas, and electricity, has seen success, but the ongoing strain on the broader electric grid may present future challenges that need to be addressed. 
    
    
    • 2) Economy:  Economic conditions, particularly interest rates, have a significant impact on business decisions.  Uncertainty over rising interest rates can slow company expansions and relocations in the U.S.  High borrowing costs make it difficult for companies to commit to large-scale investments. 
    
    
    • 3) Geopolitical Climate:  Geopolitical issues, especially those in Europe and the Middle East, affect global supply chains.  These uncertainties may lead to delays in company expansion or foreign direct investment as businesses become cautious about potential disruptions in sourcing goods and services.  Geopolitical stability is often a critical factor for companies with international dependencies. 
      
      Addressing these challenges will be key for the sustained growth of regions like Southern Virginia and the broader economic landscape.
    
    
    
    
  
  
  
  

• Administrative Areas
  
  
  
  • The exponential growth of IALR’s campus has increased the burden on staff who perform both leadership and supporting functions. IALR desires to be an employer of choice, with a positive corporate culture, and high-tech infrastructure that provides a platform for business and community collaboration. Staff require ongoing training to adapt to the changes in technology and processes. Concerns for Environmental Health and Safety, Cybersecurity, Onboarding, Civil Rights administration, etc., must be address in the equation of risk mitigation. Additional executive leadership may be necessary to maintain IALR’s strategic advantage during the next biennium.
  
  
  
  

• Advanced Manufacturing
  
  
  
  • IALR and the Advanced Manufacturing Division must continually invest in strategic partnership and new technologies to stay competitive, which can be costly and risky if new technologies do not meet expectations. Significant financial investment is often required to implement new manufacturing technologies or processes. There's a risk that the anticipated return on investment (ROI) might not materialize, leading to financial strain. New technologies and advanced manufacturing methods often require specialized skills and knowledge. Finding or training employees with the necessary expertise can be a challenge and can affect the pace of implementation.
  
  
  • Advanced manufacturing techniques may rely on complex supply chains. Disruptions in these supply chains, whether due to geopolitical events, natural disasters, or other factors, can impact production and lead to delays or increased costs. Integrating new technologies with existing systems can be complex and fraught with technical difficulties. There may be issues related to compatibility, data integration, and system reliability. As manufacturing processes evolve, they may fall under new or updated regulatory requirements. Ensuring compliance with these regulations can be challenging and may involve additional costs and administrative burdens. Advanced manufacturing often involves increased connectivity and reliance on digital systems. This can make systems more vulnerable to cyberattacks, data breaches, and other security threats. Even with technological advancements, there’s no guarantee that the market will accept new products or processes. Misalignment with customer needs or preferences can result in reduced sales or market share. New manufacturing technologies may have unforeseen environmental impacts or safety issues. Addressing these concerns proactively is essential to avoid regulatory penalties and damage to the company's reputation. Innovations in manufacturing can lead to intellectual property (IP) disputes or challenges. Protecting IP and managing IP-related risks is crucial to maintaining a competitive edge.
  
  
  
  

• IALR Conference Center
  
  
  
  • Risk factors include fluctuating economic conditions, evolving public health regulations, adequate and timely staffing, catering partnerships, and increased competition from other venues in the region.
  
  
  
  

• Facilities
  
  
  
  • The agency’s main campus building and building systems continue to age. Budget constraints have prevented expansion of the main building. Additional conference rooms, kitchen space, offices, as well as a dedicated facilities office/shop/storage location are necessary to serve the growing needs of IALR. This status places limitations on expansion of research, educational endeavors, conference services, and manufacturing advancement.
  
  
  • Federal funding has allowed construction and operation of additional buildings to facilitate the ATDM program and the Center for Manufacturing Advancement. These areas require regular intervention, updates, and services from facilities staff as well as outside partners to maintain.
  
  
  
  

For the fiscal year that concluded June 30, 2024 (FY 2024) the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research's (IALR) primary source of funding was the state appropriation of $7,323,958. Additional revenues during this fiscal year include rental income, conference services income, applied research contracts, private grant funding and federal contract and grant funding.

IALR is an innovative organization working to provide economic benefit to the region. The agency's mission is to serve as a regional catalyst for economic transformation through our five divisions: applied research, advanced learning, economic development, conference services and manufacturing advancement.

IALR has experienced exponential growth over the past several years due to continued capital equipment and building additions. These additions have been made possible through the state and local funding of our Center for Manufacturing Advancement (CMA) as well as federal funding for equipment and upfit for our expanding Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing program (ATDM).

IALR’s management considers its financial position to be well positioned for today as well as the future. IALR is continuing to grow and foster new partnerships in the areas of advanced learning, applied research, economic development, manufacturing advancement and conference services. Each new collaboration allows IALR to continue to strive to be a leader of economic transformation for the Southern Virginia region.

FFor the fiscal year that concluded June 30, 2024 (FY 2024), the Institute for Advanced Learning and Research's (IALR) primary source of funding was the state appropriation of $7,323,958. Additional revenues during this fiscal year include allocations from the State Maintenance Reserve Fund and the Higher Education Equipment Trust Fund, rental income, fees for conferencing services, grants from private foundations and federal contracts and grants.

• IALR’s STEM-related strengths provide unique assets and programming to the region, allowing opportunities for industry leadership and new business growth at both state and national levels. IALR offers leadership in Advanced Manufacturing including both subtractive (CNC) and rapidly emerging additive (industrial 3D printing) manufacturing capabilities, providing rapid launch facilities, inspection, and training environments.


• Future-thinking infrastructure and talent pool provides flexibility in both current and future sectors, including advanced materials and manufacturing, agriculture, life sciences, defense, IT/cybersecurity, and more.


• The new Controlled Environment Agriculture Innovation Center adds to the biotechnology infrastructure and knowledge, which is important for both plant and human health research. Likewise, to support this infrastructure, new programs in collaboration with Virginia Tech facilitate work experience for undergraduate data scientists to conduct research at IALR.


• IALR collaborates with K-12 systems, higher education centers, university partners, community colleges, economic developers, local agencies, and business-focused organizations. IALR’s workforce development programs serve as models for STEM education and training for the Southern Virginia region, the Commonwealth, and beyond. Also, IALR is a key connector to maintaining and growing existing businesses.

• Anticipated Changes to Customer Base
  
  
  
  • APPRENTICESHIPS: The Expanding Talent through Registered Apprenticeship (ExTRA) program supports Southern Virginia employers, instruction providers and workforce partners with the creation and implementation of successful apprenticeship programs across diverse industries, including emerging and nontraditional sectors. By blending on-the-job training with classroom instruction, these programs are designed to meet the evolving needs of our region’s workforce. ExTRA supported the creation of Virginia’s first Registered Apprenticeship programs for emergency medical technicians (EMTs) and paramedics, setting a new standard for workforce readiness in critical public health sectors.
  
  
  • POPULATION AGE: The 65+ age group was the fasted growing sector between 2010 and 2022, while the 50-64 age group declined the most during the same time period in the City of Danville (USA Facts). Over all of Virginia, the US Census Bureau noted (2020) that working-age residents (20-64 years of age) were 59% of the population. IALR continues to evaluate how these population changes will affect implementation of outreach and educational programs in the region.
  
  
  
  

• Services provided by the agency include:
  
  
  
  • Workforce and Career development including Capstone Precision Machining, Welding, Quality Control, Additive Manufacturing, and Non-Destructive testing
  
  
  • Internships for high school and college students as well as educators Scientific research and development
  
  
  • Researchers' expertise and lab equipment available to small business owners through consultative services and contract research Program management services
  
  
  • STEM Inspirational Lab travels to schools and organizations Advanced Learning loaner equipment program for educators
  
  
  • Summer Camps to increase students' exposure to STEM
  
  
  • Economic development support provided by competent experienced personnel Programs that focus on the adult learner
  
  
  • Distant learning classrooms Conference Center space and services Dan River Year AmeriCorps Program Regional STEM and Career Development
  
  
  • Robotics and Controlled Environment Agriculture exposure/training
  
  
  
  

• Anticipated changes to service include:
  
  
  
  • If continued funding is limited, research, education, training, outreach, and advanced learning programs will be negatively affected. Partnerships dependent upon adequate resources will be minimized and innovation will be stifled.
  
  
  • Expansion of K-12, adult learning, social outreach, and workforce programs require space for all associated endeavors. Without additional workspaces, these efforts will endure debilitating restriction.
  
  
  •  It is anticipated that grant-funded programs with successful outcomes may lose funding and will need support from other streams of financial support.
  
  
  
  

No data

In collaboration with higher education centers, university partners, and community colleges, IALR’s workforce development programs serve as models for STEM education and training for the Southern Virginia region, the Commonwealth, and beyond.

Research, develop, and deploy effective learning models with proven student success across all existing and new education and training programs

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Maintain strong collaborative relationships with the region’s education centers, university partners, community colleges, and school divisions to drive educational programming to meet the needs of current and emerging businesses in the region.

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Support education and training partners in developing new education and workforce initiatives across all divisions to address gaps, barriers, and fill and support talent voids.

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Continue to support and expand high-impact high-quality programs to meet demands of new and existing industry sectors.

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Execute targeted marketing and outreach campaigns to reach prospective students seeking the gap skills needed to meet the workforce needs of industries in targeted sectors with a focus on equity and inclusion.

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In collaboration with K-12 systems, the community colleges and university partners, as well as economic development, local agencies, and business-focused organizations, IALR is a key connector to maintaining and growing existing businesses.

Actively attract suppliers needed by regional businesses to expand or relocate in Southern Virginia.

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Maintain strong collaborative relationships with partners such as the Chamber of Commerce, The Entrepreneur Ecosystem, SoVA Innovation, The Launch Place, and local economic development centers.

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- Develop and provide a suite of resources and contacts to support the growth and success of current businesses.
- Research and disseminate information to support and enhance the region’s companies and industries.
- Create targeted marketing to raise awareness of IALR’s current activities and resources.
- Provide seminars and networking opportunities that support businesses based on expressed and emergent needs, introducing them to new technologies and connecting them to state, national, and international resources.
- Formalize and expand economic development concierge services to support new and existing industries.

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Division goals link to IALR’s overall strategy and employees understand how they contribute to the overall mission.

- See ourselves as one team, working together to accomplish the bigger picture.
- Implement project and operational planning principles to ensure inclusion, awareness, and preparedness for all necessary divisions and individuals.
- Develop organizational and divisional dashboards and reporting so everyone in the organization can contribute to and help support one another’s outcomes.
- Expand regular staff meetings, communications, and committee reports to ensure all staff are aware of activity across the organization.
- Evaluate, prepare, and add talent to ensure capacity and career paths throughout the organization

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The IALR board is a model for leadership – comprised of individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, and full of innovative thinkers.

- Develop a consistent process to evaluate priorities, opportunities, and funding decisions that aligns annual strategic review, budgeting process, and outreach with general assembly.
- Continue to develop the board committees as key conduits for guidance, oversight, and consistent communication for continuity during and between board meetings.
- Develop a holistic board succession plan that includes the involvement and development of future leaders, advisory board, outreach with appointing bodies, and healthy attrition with a focus on equity and inclusion.
- Launch comprehensive board training program to address new board member orientation and continued board member knowledge that includes both internal and external components established from a developed curriculum informed by industry leading sources and benchmarking.
- Develop board outreach and engagement plan with other boards and policy makers that aims to strengthen the working relationship, mutual goals, and growth of funds.
- Establish regular program to gather outside data, market trends, and perspectives that can be considered by the board in its continuous strategic analysis related to advanced manufacturing, applied research, and workforce development

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A long-term research and technology transfer process is strategically informed through outward-facing efforts that identify frontier trends for applied research.

- Optimize utilization of existing facilities for both research and commercial use by aligning with state and regional priorities for industry development.
- Identify IALR’s core strengths and competencies to ensure alignment with potential opportunities.
- Identify regional market needs for applied research for existing and incoming industries.
- Identify collaborative research partners and research funding sources to support identified research initiatives important to targeted industry’s needs.
- Expand the existing agriculture resources to make Southern Virginia a destination area for high-tech agriculture companies.
- Utilize IALR’s existing subject matter expertise in various arenas to establish a national presence.
- Develop an ROI model for investments in infrastructure, equipment, and human capital that supports strategic goals

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Future-thinking infrastructure and talent pool provides flexibility in both current and future sectors, including advanced materials and manufacturing, agriculture, life sciences, defense, IT/cybersecurity, and more

Expand and grow as a primary liaison for state and local economic development initiatives to attract new business to the region.

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Invest in new leading-edge equipment, infrastructure, and related assets that will attract new businesses by engaging in a methodical process of evaluation and informed decision making.

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Create a comprehensive and high-quality marketing campaign through targeted channels and collaboration with media partners that promotes a positive quality of life in Southern Virginia.

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Collaborate with government agencies and partners to study, inform, and develop various industries supported through the high-tech manufacturing sector in Southern Virginia.

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Expand infrastructure investments in business-ready facilities as demand requires so IALR always has an available space for industry use.

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Expand and grow high-impact programs that have local, regional, state, and national impact and attract individuals and businesses to the region

• Prioritize partnerships with K-12 divisions in the IALR footprint

• Work collaboratively with Virginia Tech, Danville Community College, Averett University, and other higher educational institutions

• Identify and cultivate partnerships to secure resources to benefit the region

The IALR service region includes Danville City, Pittsylvania County, Franklin County, Halifax County, Henry County, Martinsville City, Mecklenburg County, and Patrick County.

The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) develops and attracts technology and talent critical to Southern Virginia’s economic prosperity through advanced learning, strategic research and commercialization, conference center amenities, manufacturing advancement, outreach programs, workforce initiatives, and advanced networking and information technology. The IALR partners with higher education institutions, as well as public and private bodies and organizations in the region, to that end.

One primary goal of this effort is to establish a strong research and development infrastructure enhanced by commercialization activities, which will enable companies to relocate to the region to be close to the capabilities that enhance their products and services. Another focus is to provide educational programs that will increase the region’s skilled labor force and attract higher-paid, technology-driven employment to the region.

The IALR mission of economic transformation aligns with the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) goals of closing access and completion gaps, making education affordable for students, and expanding prosperity.

Advanced Learning programs that build the region's STEM capacity

STEM (GO TEC®) Mobile Lab that travels, and provides hands-on experience, to schools within the region and beyond

Summer camps that provide affordable exposure to STEM subjects

Support of internships, externships, and apprenticeships

Audio & Visual Technologies that support internal and external Conference Center activities

Conference center services

Contract research that supports existing businesses

Exploratory research utilizing the region's agricultural and polymer assets

New business development/expansion

Intellectual properties (IP) creation

Affordable access to the expertise of on-staff scientists with a variety of backgrounds and disciplines

Affordable access to lab equipment that many companies and entrepreneurs do not have available to them

IALR uniquely participates as one of five higher education centers in the Commonwealth. In that role, IALR’s duties include expanding access to higher education, serving as a resource and hub for all levels of education, and encouraging and coordinating, as appropriate, the development and delivery of programs serving the region. IALR has established a state-leading reputation for workforce development and education support. We enjoy strong collaboration with educational partners and IALR serves as a known catalyst to launch important educational programs within the region. These efforts are often focused on the STEM-related sectors, most notably in its highly recognized Great Opportunities in Technology and Engineering (GO TEC®) program

The IALR strategic plan emphasizes the creation, development and commercialization of technology critical to Southern Virginia’s economic prosperity. IALR aligns its education, workforce, and research programs with the strategic economic plans of the southern Virginia Region and of the Commonwealth.