BRISTOL, Va. — Strongwell (USA), the recognized leader in the manufacture of fiber reinforced polymer (FRP) pultruded composites, announces that its Chatfield, Minnesota, facility has once again been named one of the Best Places to Work in Southeast Minnesota for 2026. The recognition is part of a competitive program coordinated by Workforce Development, Inc. (WDI), which has honored top regional employers for more than 15 years.

The award places Strongwell among the region’s leading employers, based on a comprehensive survey administered by national consulting firm Personnel Dynamics. Only five companies in the Mid-Size Employer category were recognized across Southeast Minnesota’s eleven-county region, with evaluations focused on employee retention, benefits, training, advancement opportunities, and workplace culture.

“This recognition reflects our commitment to providing secure, desirable employment and an environment where team members can develop their skills and contribute to meaningful work,” said Wendy Kohler, Manager of Human Resources at the Chatfield facility. “At Strongwell, people are our most important resource, and we are intentional about supporting their growth.”

Strongwell-Chatfield employs more than 120 team members and manufactures pultruded FRP products, including grating, handrail, and custom and OEM components such as fiberglass tool handles. The facility reflects strong employee retention and long-term career development.

The award was presented during the 2026 Workforce Development Forum, where regional employers were recognized for excellence in workforce development, engagement, and retention.

“We are proud of this achievement, which aligns with our goal of continuous improvement and delivering value to our customers,” said Josh Maggert, Vice President of Minnesota and Mexico Operations. “Strongwell’s strength comes from our people, and their commitment to quality, performance, and teamwork drives our success.”

For more information about Strongwell, visit https://www.strongwell.com.

Headquartered in Bristol, Virginia, Strongwell is the world’s leading pultruder of fiber reinforced polymer composites. The company has pultrusion manufacturing facilities in Bristol, Virginia; Abingdon, Virginia; Chatfield, Minnesota; and Apodaca, Mexico. Strongwell is a financially strong, privately held company, producing products including structural shapes, grating, handrail, structural building panels, decking systems, composite armor, ladder rail, and many OEM products for its diverse customer base.