Bristol, Virginia, October 17, 2025
News Summary
Strongwell, known for its innovative composite materials, has been awarded the 2025 Manufacturing Innovations Award by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing. The award honors their advanced STRONGDEK structural composite decking system, lauded for its durability and lightweight properties. Accepted by Barry Myers, Te-Kai Shu, and Charlton Buckner, the recognition emphasizes Strongwell’s commitment to innovation and community involvement under the leadership of John Tickle.
Bristol, Virginia – Strongwell, the world’s leading pultruder of fiber reinforced polymer composites, has been honored with the 2025 Manufacturing Innovations Award by the Southwest Virginia Alliance for Manufacturing (SVAM). This prestigious award recognizes Strongwell’s innovative achievements with its patented STRONGDEK structural composite decking system.
The STRONGDEK system stands out for its advanced technology in composite materials, significantly enhancing construction and infrastructure with its durable design and lightweight properties. Strongwell continues to make impactful contributions to the composites industry, showcasing exceptional manufacturing processes, particularly through pultrusion methods.
On behalf of Strongwell, Barry Myers, Te-Kai Shu, and Charlton Buckner accepted the award, highlighting the company’s dedication not only to innovative manufacturing but also to community involvement. Under the leadership of chairman John Tickle, who has been with the company for over 50 years, Strongwell has established a significant presence in the composites industry.
Details of the STRONGDEK System
The STRONGDEK system is designed to revolutionize the way composite decking is utilized across various sectors. Its unique composition offers strength while minimizing weight, making it an ideal choice for modern construction projects. The system’s creation involved rigorous research and development, ultimately leading to its recognition in the manufacturing field.
Impact on the Industry
The award from SVAM underscores Strongwell’s commitment to innovation. By focusing on cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, Strongwell continues to push the boundaries of what is possible within the composites industry. The STRONGDEK system is not just a product but a representation of the future of construction materials that aim to improve durability and efficiency in building practices.
Leadership and Community Engagement
Strongwell’s influence extends beyond its manufacturing excellence. The company actively engages with the community, fostering relationships that contribute to the overall growth of the composite industry. The leadership team, led by John Tickle, prioritizes both technological advancement and community involvement, positioning Strongwell as a role model in the manufacturing sector.
Conclusion
The recognition received by Strongwell at the 2025 Manufacturing Innovations Award ceremony affirms its position at the forefront of manufacturing innovation and community contributions. As the company continues to develop groundbreaking solutions like the STRONGDEK decking system, it plays an essential role in shaping the future of construction and infrastructure.
FAQ
What is the STRONGDEK decking system?
The STRONGDEK system developed by Strongwell showcases innovative technology in composite materials, significantly enhancing construction and infrastructure through its durable design and lightweight properties.
Who accepted the 2025 Manufacturing Innovations Award on behalf of Strongwell?
Barry Myers, Te-Kai Shu, and Charlton Buckner from Strongwell accepted the award on behalf of the company.
Who is the chairman of Strongwell?
The company has a significant leadership presence in the composites industry, guided by its chairman, John Tickle, who has been involved in the company for over 50 years.
What is Strongwell known for?
Strongwell, based in Bristol, Virginia, is the world’s leading pultruder of fiber reinforced polymer composites.
Key Features of STRONGDEK
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Durability | Engineered for long-lasting performance, resisting wear and damage. |
| Lightweight | Significantly lighter than traditional materials, easing handling and installation. |
| Innovative Technology | Utilizes advanced composite materials for superior structural performance. |
| Versatile Applications | Applicable across various sectors in construction and infrastructure. |
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Additional Resources
- Herald Courier: Strongwell News
- Wikipedia: Composites
- WJHL: Local Women Honored
- Google Search: Manufacturing Innovations Award 2025
- AZoM: STRONGDEK System News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites
- Composites World: Strongwell’s Chairman
- Google News: STRONGDEK Decking System
- Herald Courier: Local Business News
- Google Scholar: Innovation in Composite Materials

Author: STAFF HERE BRISTOL WRITTER
The BRISTOL STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBristol.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Bristol, Sullivan County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Bristol Rhythm & Roots Reunion, NASCAR races at Bristol Motor Speedway, Border Bash concert series, and the Hot Bristol Night Car Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Bristol Chamber of Commerce, Believe in Bristol, and the Birthplace of Country Music, plus leading businesses in healthcare, manufacturing, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Ballad Health, Strongwell, and Bristol Motor Speedway. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, HEREMemphis.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.


