TECHnista, LLC.

TECHnista Announces Partnership with Lincoln Electric to Advance Welding Education Through Virtual Reality 🔥🔴⚫🥽

TECHnista is proud to announce a new partnership with Lincoln Electric, a global leader in welding technology and workforce development. Through this collaboration, Lincoln Electric will provide cutting-edge virtual reality welding solutions to support the MEERA (Manufacturing and Engineering Education Reimagined for All) program, helping students gain hands-on welding experience in a safe, engaging, and innovative learning environment.

What is MEERA?
The MEERA program is a competency-based K-12 manufacturing education initiative designed to bridge the skills gap in the manufacturing industry. By combining hands-on learning experiences, industry-aligned curriculum, and comprehensive teacher training, MEERA prepares students for careers in manufacturing, engineering, and skilled trades through early exposure to career pathways and real-world applications.

Lincoln Electric's Role
As part of this exciting partnership, Lincoln Electric will provide access to two of its industry-leading virtual reality welding training solutions: the VRTEX® 360 Compact welding simulator and the Voyage™ Arc VR Headset.

Students participating in the MEERA program will have the opportunity to develop welding skills through immersive, simulation-based training that replicates real-world welding scenarios. The VRTEX 360 Compact offers a comprehensive welding simulation experience with real-time feedback, while the Voyage Arc VR Headset delivers portable, accessible virtual welding training that allows students to practice and build confidence before working with live equipment.

These advanced training tools help students learn proper welding techniques, improve safety awareness, and gain valuable experience in a cost-effective and environmentally friendly setting. By incorporating virtual reality technology into manufacturing education, MEERA is expanding access to high-quality skilled trades training and helping students explore rewarding careers in welding and advanced manufacturing.

Together, TECHnista and Lincoln Electric are creating new opportunities for students to engage with industry-leading technology and develop in-demand skills for the modern manufacturing workforce. This partnership reinforces a shared commitment to strengthening career and technical education programs while preparing the next generation of welders, manufacturers, and skilled professionals across the United States.

We are incredibly honored and humbled to share that TECHnista was named the recipient of the Pinnacle Small Business Award at last night's Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce Annual Awards Celebration.

The Pinnacle Small Business Award recognizes organizations that contribute to the economic vitality and quality of life in our region through innovation, professionalism, ethical business practices, and community involvement. Receiving this award is a tremendous honor, but what makes it so special is knowing it reflects the people behind TECHnista.

To our team - this achievement belongs to you as much as it does to TECHnista. This award reflects the collective effort of a group of people who care deeply about their work and each other. Thank you for your commitment, your expertise, and for helping make TECHnista what it is today!

We're also thankful to the Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce for this recognition and for their continued investment in the businesses and leaders that make our region stronger.

There are moments as a business owner when you get to step back and celebrate the people who make your company stronger every day - and last night was one of those moments.

Please join us in congratulating Jennifer Hardy on graduating from Danville Pittsylvania Chamber of Commerce Leadership Southside! Over the 10 months, Jenn has invested her time and energy into growing as a leader and building relationships across our region. We have had the privilege of watching her take on new challenges, share her talents, and represent TECHnista with professionalism and enthusiasm. Jenn, the TECHnista team is incredibly proud of you and grateful for all you bring to our team. Your commitment to personal and professional growth is inspiring, and this achievement is well deserved!

We also want to thank the Danville Pittsylvania County Chamber of Commerce for creating opportunities like Leadership Southside. Programs like this not only strengthen individual leaders but also help local businesses and our entire community thrive. We are thankful for organizations that invest in developing the people who will help shape the future of Southside Virginia!

TECHnista was honored to sponsor and participate in today’s ATDM Workforce Forum at IALR, bringing together leaders from industry, government, education, the U.S. Navy, and workforce development organizations to celebrate the success and impact of the Accelerated Training in Defense Manufacturing (ATDM) program.

As the administrator of the MEERA program, TECHnista is proud to support efforts that connect students to meaningful pathways in advanced manufacturing, engineering, and technology.

Thank you to The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research (IALR) and all of the partners working to create innovative solutions that inspire, train, and empower the next generation of talent.

TECHnista is continuing to grow, and we’re still looking for talented individuals to join our team as we expand our impact in education across Virginia and beyond.

🚨 Immediate Need: Lab & Installation Specialists 🚨
We are actively seeking motivated professionals who are ready to help bring innovative learning environments to life. If you have experience with technology installations and lab and equipment setup, we encourage you to apply.

We are also accepting applications for:
• Branding & Marketing Specialist
• Program Managers

If you're excited about helping shape the future of learning, creating meaningful opportunities for students, and making a real impact through education, we'd love to connect with you.

To learn more or request an application link, email us at [email protected].

Our team just keeps growing! TECHnista, LLC. is excited to welcome more talented professionals to our growing family as we continue reshaping the future of K-12 education.

These outstanding team members bring creativity, dedication, and expertise to every project they touch. Whether they’re developing innovative learning experiences, supporting educators, or helping solve complex challenges, their contributions strengthen everything we do. We are incredibly proud to work alongside individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence at TECHnista, LLC.
_______________________________________________________________

Kevin Thompson – Director of Operations

◾ Expertise and Experience
Kevin Thompson is an experienced operations and manufacturing leader with more than 30 years of expertise across the industrial equipment, textile, and defense industries. Throughout his career, he has held a variety of operations and engineering leadership roles, developing a strong reputation for strategic thinking, operational excellence, and team development. Kevin’s extensive background includes production planning, process improvement, operational leadership, and employee development. He is a strong advocate for continuous learning and believes in empowering employees through a bottom-up leadership approach that fosters accountability, teamwork, and effective decision-making at every level of an organization.

◾ Years of Experience
30+ years in manufacturing, operations, and engineering leadership

◾ Education
▪️ Precision Machining, Rockingham Community College, Wentworth, NC

◾ Career Background
Kevin brings a diverse background in manufacturing operations, engineering, and leadership development. Throughout his career, he has worked across multiple industries including industrial equipment, textiles, and defense manufacturing, where he held a variety of operational and engineering roles. His experience includes overseeing production operations, supporting quality management initiatives, implementing process improvements, and mentoring employees into leadership positions.

Kevin is passionate about developing strong teams and fostering leadership growth within organizations. He believes manufacturing presents new challenges and opportunities every day and finds fulfillment in helping others grow professionally while supporting sustainable operational success.

◾ Relevant Skills
▪️ Mentoring and Coaching New Leaders
▪️ Strategic Development for Sustainable Operations
▪️ Critical Thinking
▪️ Production Planning
▪️ Operations Leadership
▪️ Process Improvement

◾ Career Highlights / Major Professional Accomplishments
▪️ Led operations of a manufacturing site that achieved a 3,000-day injury-free milestone
▪️ Supported organization-wide ISO 9001 certification efforts through documentation development, quality system implementation, and successful audit coordination
▪️ Fostered leadership growth through mentoring and employee development, helping direct reports transition into management roles

◾ Relevant Certifications
▪️ Martinsville-Henry County Leadership Development Certification
▪️ Organizational Leadership Skill Building Certification
▪️ Think Reliability – Cause Mapping Certification
▪️ OSHA 10 Certification

◾ Personal Touch
Outside of work, Kevin enjoys performance automotive projects, exploring tropical destinations, and spending time with family. He has always enjoyed hands-on work and problem-solving and appreciates the opportunities manufacturing provides to continuously learn and help others succeed.

Our team just keeps growing! TECHnista, LLC. is excited to welcome more talented professionals to our growing family as we continue reshaping the future of K-12 education.

These outstanding team members bring creativity, dedication, and expertise to every project they touch. Whether they’re developing innovative learning experiences, supporting educators, or helping solve complex challenges, their contributions strengthen everything we do. We are incredibly proud to work alongside individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence at TECHnista, LLC.
_______________________________________________________________

Stacey Moss – Finance Controller

◾ Expertise and Experience
Stacey Moss is an experienced finance and accounting professional with more than 30 years of expertise in payroll, bookkeeping, accounting, and tax preparation. Throughout her career, she has worked across corporate, personal, and estate finance environments, developing a strong reputation for accuracy, organization, and financial leadership. Stacey’s extensive background includes managing financial operations, overseeing payroll systems, and supporting organizations through effective budgeting and accounting practices. Her expertise includes financial management, bookkeeping, payroll administration, accounting software systems, and tax preparation.

◾ Years of Experience
30+ years in accounting, payroll, bookkeeping, and financial management

◾ Education
▪️ B.S. Degree in Business Administration: Accounting, 1994

◾ Career Background
Stacey brings a diverse background in financial management, accounting, and organizational leadership. She spent 21 years at Stratford House Retirement Community, where she served in multiple leadership roles including Business Office Manager, Chief Financial Officer, and Executive Director. In these positions, she oversaw financial operations, payroll, budgeting, and administrative management while supporting the organization’s long-term operational success.

She also worked for 8 years with Harris, Harvey, Neal & Co., LLP as a Bookkeeper, where she further strengthened her expertise in accounting and financial reporting. More recently, Stacey served as the HR & Payroll Coordinator for Chatham Hall, supporting payroll operations and human resources functions.

◾ Relevant Skills
▪️ Payroll Administration
▪️ Bookkeeping and Accounting
▪️ Corporate, Personal, and Estate Tax Preparation
▪️ QuickBooks Desktop & Online
▪️ Sage (Peachtree) Accounting Software
▪️ Paychex Flex
▪️ Microsoft Excel & Word

◾ Career Highlights / Major Professional Accomplishments
▪️ Served 21 years in leadership and financial management roles at Stratford House Retirement Community
▪️ Advanced from Business Office Manager to CFO and Executive Director
▪️ Extensive experience managing payroll, budgeting, and financial operations across multiple organizations

◾ Personal Touch
Outside of work, Stacey enjoys spending time with her husband David, to whom she has been married for 30 years, and their two daughters, Taylor and Sydney. She also enjoys caring for her two dogs, Sophie and Willow, playing pickleball, and swimming during the summer at her parents’ pool.

Our team just keeps growing! TECHnista, LLC. is excited to welcome more talented professionals to our growing family as we continue reshaping the future of K-12 education.

These outstanding team members bring creativity, dedication, and expertise to every project they touch. Whether they’re developing innovative learning experiences, supporting educators, or helping solve complex challenges, their contributions strengthen everything we do. We are incredibly proud to work alongside individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence at TECHnista, LLC.
_______________________________________________________________

Christian Blackstock – Lab Technician

◾ Expertise and Experience
Christian Blackstock brings hands-on technical expertise to his role as Lab Technician. With a strong background in precision machining, he has developed valuable skills in problem-solving, equipment operation, and process efficiency. His experience reflects a commitment to quality workmanship, leadership, and continuous improvement in every environment he supports.

Christian’s technical training and experience have equipped him with a versatile skill set that includes machining, mechanical troubleshooting, time management, and operational leadership.

◾ Years of Experience
3 years in precision machining and technical operations

◾ Education
▪️ Associate Degree
▪️ Precision Machining Studies, Danville Community College

◾ Career Background
Christian began building his professional experience through hands-on work in both technical and service-based industries. He previously worked at Countryside Service Center, where he developed strong mechanical and customer service skills while supporting daily operations and equipment needs.

In addition, Christian operates Old 97 Landscaping, where he gained valuable leadership and time management experience through coordinating projects, maintaining equipment, and managing responsibilities independently. His educational background in precision machining further strengthened his technical knowledge and attention to detail, preparing him for success in technical environments.

◾ Relevant Skills
▪️ Precision Machining
▪️ Mechanical Skills
▪️ Leadership
▪️ Time Management
▪️ Technical Operations Support

◾ Career Highlights / Major Professional Accomplishments
▪️ Earned Associate Degree in Precision Machining
▪️ Achieved Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt Certification
▪️ Completed MCOSMOS C1 and C2 Certifications

◾ Relevant Certifications
▪️ OSHA Certification
▪️ Lean Six Sigma Yellow Belt
▪️ MCOSMOS C1 Certification
▪️ MCOSMOS C2 Certification

◾ Personal Touch
Outside of work, Christian enjoys spending time outdoors hunting and fishing. He especially enjoys days spent on the lake or in the woods and appreciates any opportunity to be outside. In his free time, he also enjoys cooking on the grill and spending time with family and friends.

Our team just keeps growing! TECHnista, LLC. is excited to welcome more talented professionals to our growing family as we continue reshaping the future of K-12 education.

These outstanding team members bring creativity, dedication, and expertise to every project they touch. Whether they’re developing innovative learning experiences, supporting educators, or helping solve complex challenges, their contributions strengthen everything we do. We are incredibly proud to work alongside individuals who embody the spirit of innovation, collaboration, and excellence at TECHnista, LLC.

_______________________________________________________________

Shannon Stone – Instructional Design and Professional Learning Specialist

◾ Expertise and Experience
Shannon Stone is a higher education professional with extensive experience designing, developing, and teaching both lecture and lab-based courses. Throughout her career, she has consistently focused on enhancing curriculum and creating meaningful, application-focused learning experiences that connect academic content to real-world industry needs.

Shannon has contributed to the development and improvement of every course and program she has supported, aligning instructional content with student needs, academic standards, and workforce expectations. Although her professional journey began in a highly specialized discipline, it has evolved into a broad and adaptable skill set grounded in education, operations, and strategic program development. Her expertise includes curriculum design, instructional leadership, faculty support, and online program management.

◾ Years of Experience
8 years in higher education, curriculum development, and instructional leadership

◾ Education
▪️ B.S., Equestrian Studies Management, Averett University
▪️ M.S., Exercise and Sport Sciences: Sport Psychology, Ithaca College

◾ Career Background
Shannon brings a dynamic and diverse background in higher education, leadership, and curriculum development. She began her career in Averett University’s Equestrian Department, where she managed daily operations for a competitive collegiate program, including overseeing herd health and facility maintenance, developing curriculum, and coaching student-athletes. In these roles, she developed strong leadership, organizational, and instructional skills while working within a highly specialized field.

More recently, Shannon expanded her experience through her work with Averett University’s Online Programs as Operations Manager. In this role, she oversaw multiple academic programs, coordinated faculty assignments and support, and assisted with curriculum evaluation and program rotations. Her work centered on ensuring quality, consistency, and student success within the online learning environment.

◾ Relevant Skills
▪️ Curriculum Development and Implementation
▪️ LMS Management
▪️ Instructional Support

◾ Career Highlights / Major Professional Accomplishments
▪️ 2019–2025 – Intercollegiate Dressage Association, Region I Representative
▪️ 2025 – Coached Averett University’s Intercollegiate Dressage Team and Individuals to Reserve National Champions
▪️ 2026 – North Carolina Dressage & Combined Training Association’s Education Chair

◾ Personal Touch
Outside of work, Shannon enjoys spending time with her husband and young son, caring for her two dogs, and riding her current leased horse.

We’re incredibly proud to celebrate Kelsey Robertson for being recognized at the Virginia Business Forty Under 40 Awards ceremony - an honor that reflects her leadership, innovation, and impact across our community. Watching Kelsey receive this recognition among so many inspiring leaders was such a special moment for all of us at TECHnista. A special thank you to the members of the TECHnista team who joined Kelsey for the evening and helped make the celebration even more meaningful.