Collaborative Spirit of Hopewell's Manufacturers Drives City's Economic Future.

Manufacturing weaves a key thread in Hopewell’s history and economic backbone, and today’s Hopewell Manufacturers Association (HMA) plays a pivotal role in keeping that legacy vibrant for tomorrow’s generations.

As the treasurer of the HMA, Jane Benito, site manager of Evonik, recognizes that ensuring the prosperity of her plant but also others across the Hopewell and local region requires collaboration, with related benefits for the greater business community and residents. “Manufacturing is vital to Hopewell: It’s what has sustained this city for generations,” said Benito, a chemical engineer and 16-year Evonik veteran. “And the HMA is committed to making sure it remains a driving force for the future.” 

Evonik, a German specialty chemicals company, operates two plants in Hopewell and hosts Kensing Solutions, employing more than 100 in the community. The Hopewell facilities are among nearly 30 U.S. locations.

Consumers won’t see Evonik-branded products on retail shelves, but they’re likely buying something that incorporates its products every day. Its products show up in diverse offerings: personal care solutions, including lotions and face cream; foams for mattresses and car seats; and insulations for everything from construction to refrigeration. They also create a material that ensures paint adheres appropriately to walls and doesn’t flow down quickly like water.

“Evonik might not be a household name, but our products are essential components in so many things that people use every day,” said Benito, who has been site manager in Hopewell since 2021 and the only woman on HMA leadership. “We take great pride in being part of Hopewell's manufacturing heritage.” 

As HMA members, Benito and her colleagues assist each other's operations, and they also give back to the Hopewell community. The association supports local initiatives such as the local Boys to Men program, which provides mentorship and guidance to high school students. One young participant attended an HMA meeting, where he shared how the program helped him get on track and changed his life; he now is taking on part-time jobs. The association, which has about 10 manufacturers, also sponsors the Hopewell segment of the annual Virginia Legacy Run, a statewide motorcycle event coordinated by The American Legion to raise funds for veterans’ needs.

“It's not just about us as individual companies,” Benito said. “The HMA is focused on strengthening Hopewell as a whole: economically, socially and educationally. We see ourselves as partners in the city's success.” 

Benito notes that spirit of teamwork circles back to the practical business of running factories. Members know they can readily turn to their peers at other plants, for example, to quickly find a needed part to keep operations running smoothly. They also create a unified voice addressing common challenges, including the complex regulatory landscape for manufacturers. 

Like her peers, Benito seeks to develop the next generation of skilled workers, which is essential to keep Hopewell's industrial base healthy and prosperous – and to fill these jobs with area residents to power a strong economic ecosystem. A growing interest among high school students in trade schools is promising, and she knows that ongoing marketing and education about careers in manufacturing is critical in effective recruitment efforts.

“We need that pipeline of talent, from electricians and mechanics to chemical operators,” Benito said. “The HMA is committed to partnering with local education providers to build that workforce for the long term.” 

Within her plants, Benito is specifically focusing on safety, community engagement and workforce development. She recognizes that trifecta is key to ensuring the vitality of Hopewell's manufacturing sector.

“Manufacturing is the heart of Hopewell,” she said. “And the HMA is dedicated to keeping that heart beating strong.”