The IFB Beat 5-11 Edition

A Message from the Editor

This week’s IFB Beat reflects a season of transition, growth and opportunity across our organization. As updates continue at the Winston-Salem facility, we recognize that change can bring both challenges and new possibilities. These planned efforts are focused on strengthening our operations, creating more efficient spaces and positioning IFB for long-term success.

At the same time, we celebrate the people who make our mission possible. From welcoming new hires and recognizing Bri Glover’s well-earned promotion, to highlighting Lisa Berry in this week’s Employee Spotlight, it’s clear that our strength comes from our employees’ resilience, dedication and heart.

We’re also reminded of the importance of community—whether through upcoming blood drives or simply supporting one another through times of change.

Thank you for all you do each day to move IFB forward.

Quote of the week:

“Collaboration turns ideas into results.” — Unknown

Thank you for strolling the Beat. See you next week!

Anastasia Powell

IFB Solutions Communications Manager
apowell@ifbsolutions.org | 336-245-5698

 

Quick Links:

New this Week

– Reminder: Winston-Salem Facility Update
– Welcome New Hires
– Promotion Announcement: Brianna Glover
– Safety Update
– The IFB Beat Sunday Evening Text Update
– Give the Gift of Life: Upcoming IFB Solutions Blood Drives
– Employee Spotlight Featuring Lisa Berry, Asheville Facility
– Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

From Our Community

– Inspiration Station: Are You Checking In Or Checking On?

HR & Opportunities

– Job Opportunities

IFB Beat Phone Lines
Support Group Zoom Meeting Links
Archived Editions of The IFB Beat

 

Reminder: Winston-Salem Facility Update

Over the past several months, we have shared that changes were coming. Those changes are now underway.

In recent weeks, many of you have likely noticed teams changing—including saying goodbye to coworkers and friends, equipment being moved, new production lines being established and other production lines winding down. These changes are part of a planned transition focused on two key areas:

  1. Changes to the quantities and products we manufacture.
  2. Changes to the physical space where production takes place.

As with any business, staffing levels in each department are based on customer demand. That is why some employees are being moved into areas where demand is currently stronger.

Fuel Handler’s Suit (FHS) Team Update

The Fuel Handler’s Suit program is being consolidated into our Asheville facility, where the pants are currently made. Production of the jackets in Winston-Salem will conclude by the end of May. Many employees from this department have already transitioned into other textile roles on campus, with additional transitions happening soon. Following those moves, we have the staffing levels we need for all the products we are currently producing.

Engineering is also preparing a new production line called the Enhanced Frame Shoulder Strap (EFSS). Once operational, this line will be staffed by existing textile employees.

Packaging and Assembly Update

Packaging and assembly work remains an important part of our business. Unfortunately, due to a downturn in demand, about 10 employees in packaging and assembly were laid off. Currently, those departments are appropriately staffed for current business needs, and no additional layoffs are planned.

Business Growth and New Opportunities

We have added new business development and sales resources focused on stabilizing our current product lines, growing sales opportunities and securing new business. Some new opportunities, especially in textiles, are progressing enough that we are beginning to plan future production here in Winston-Salem.

Campus and Facility Expansion

As previously shared, we will be consolidating our Clemmons warehouse operations into the Winston-Salem facility. That transition has begun and is expected to be completed between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

We have also received a $3.2 million grant to expand the Winston-Salem facility. This has launched formal planning with architects and builders. Right now, we expect construction to begin this fall and be completed next spring. Some early improvements, including a new roof, are already underway.

These upgrades will create more space and better flow for manufacturing, warehousing and shipping. They will also improve campus accessibility and employee movement throughout the day.

What It Will Take to Succeed

Successfully navigating this transition will require executing these changes well, training and developing employees for new programs like EFSS and winning and retaining business through quality work and on-time performance.

While periods of change can feel uncertain, these are planned changes with a clear direction. Our priority remains placing employees into available work whenever possible. We are building a campus that supports greater flexibility, stronger efficiency and long-term opportunity.

Medical Services Update

We also shared important news regarding on-site medical services. First and most importantly: IFB remains fully committed to providing on-site medical care in Winston-Salem.

After evaluating how emergency and non-emergency services are best delivered for employees, we have made the decision to transition from our current provider. Dr. Collins and his team will continue serving patients on-site through the end of June, and after that time, patients may continue seeing him through his personal practice. We are grateful to Dr. Collins and his team for their many years of dedicated service.

Beginning July 1, IFB will partner with Atrium Health to provide a new dedicated on-site clinic for IFB employees. This clinic will not be a public walk-in location; it is being designed specifically around employee needs. The on-site clinic will provide access to Atrium Health’s full network of providers and specialists, coordinated care through Atrium’s electronic medical record system, acceptance of a wide range of insurance plans and many other benefits we’re excited to share in the coming weeks.

To support this change, the medical clinic offices will relocate to the offices behind the former Community Low Vision Center space. Additional details will be shared as the July 1 transition approaches.

Questions

We know many of you may have questions. Please take the next 24 hours to consider any questions you may have and share them with your supervisor. Supervisors will forward questions to senior management so we can provide responses as information becomes available. Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to IFB.

 

Welcome New Hires

We’re excited to welcome several new team members to IFB Solutions! Each new hire brings unique talents and experiences that strengthen our mission and our community. Please join us in giving them a warm IFB welcome as they begin their journey with us.

Asheville – Fuel Handler’s Suit

  • Bryant Durham
  • Gloria Hernandez-Ramirez

Workforce Services

  • Geneva Whitemon
  • Samantha Morales
  • Calunie Tarnate
  • Giselle Cabrera
  • Chinkie Goode
  • Robert Brown

Base Supply Center

  • Marian Jackson

We’re glad you’re here and look forward to all you will contribute. If you see our new team members around, be sure to say hello and help them feel at home!

 

Promotion Announcement: Brianna Glover

Congratulations to Brianna “Bri” Glover on her promotion to Winston-Salem HR Receptionist. In her role, Bri serves as an administrative assistant, often called the “Director of First Impressions,” where she welcomes visitors and supports the HR team with professionalism and care.

Bri joined IFB 13 months ago as a sewing machine operator on the manufacturing floor. Her strong work ethic and commitment to growth quickly set her apart, opening the door to this new opportunity within the organization.

Bri’s journey to IFB is one of resilience and determination. After developing traumatic glaucoma later in life due to an injury, she experienced significant vision loss that made it difficult to maintain employment and find an employer willing to provide the accommodations she needed. Refusing to give up, Bri attended the Louisiana Center for the Blind, where she completed vocational rehabilitation training and is now a proud alumna.

She first learned about IFB through a former employee and later explored the organization further after attending a seminar and career fair in Washington, DC. Inspired by its mission, she applied and hasn’t looked back since.

With the support of accommodations such as JAWS screen reader software and Braille materials and by taking advantage of training opportunities like Braille classes, Bri has continued to build her skills and confidence. Today, she plays a key role in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for employees and guests alike.

For Bri, employment means far more than a job. It represents independence, stability and the ability to provide for her 10-year-old daughter, whom she describes as “the beat of my heart.” Outside of work, she enjoys reading, crafting, shopping and traveling.

Bri’s story is a powerful example of perseverance and the impact of opportunity. Her journey from the manufacturing floor to the front office reflects both her dedication and the possibilities that come with an inclusive workplace.

 

Safety Update

At IFB Solutions, ensuring a safe workplace isn’t just a priority, it’s a vital commitment to our team’s well-being and the integrity of our operations. We’ve implemented safety protocols because everyone’s safety matters deeply to us.

From the moment you step onto our campus, safety guidelines are in place to protect you and your colleagues. It starts with awareness—be mindful of your surroundings while walking around the campus, and don’t hesitate to report any suspicious activity. Our strict access control measures are designed with your safety in mind: all tours must be scheduled and led by an IFB tour guide, and visitors are required to check in at the front lobby to ensure we are aware of everyone in the building. Please do not allow entry to individuals without proper identification, such as UPS delivery personnel, former employees or friends. Additionally, never leave doors propped open unattended. This not only safeguards against unauthorized entry but also protects the sensitive nature of our operations and the products we manufacture.

Why are these measures so critical? Firstly, for general safety reasons—the world presents unforeseen risks, and precaution is our best defense. Secondly, our government contracts demand stringent security to protect access and maintain the highest standards of confidentiality. Lastly, our community includes visually impaired individuals who are particularly vulnerable, making it imperative to prevent unauthorized access.

Failure to comply with these safety guidelines isn’t just about following rules—it’s about preventing potential harm to yourself, your colleagues and the integrity of our mission. Violations are taken seriously, with disciplinary actions enforced to uphold our commitment to a secure environment. Thank you for helping us keep everyone safe.

 

The IFB Beat Sunday Evening Text Update

A few weeks ago, Blackboard implemented a system update that has affected the distribution of the Sunday evening text to all IFB employees. Angela Jordan, who manages Blackboard on our end, is currently working with their team to resolve the issue. We’re hopeful it will be fixed soon.

 

Give the Gift of Life: Upcoming IFB Solutions Blood Drives

Asheville and Winston-Salem facilities will host upcoming blood drives, giving employees the opportunity to make a lifesaving difference in their communities. Just one pint of blood can save up to three lives, and every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.

Asheville facility, annual spring blood drive
Wednesday, May 13
A sign-up sheet is available in the breakroom. Employees may also contact Administrative Assistant Denice Drake to be added to the donor list.

Winston-Salem facility, Red Cross blood drive
Thursday, May 14, 10 a.m.– 2:30 p.m. in TAD’s room
Please contact your supervisor to schedule an appointment to donate. Admin contact: Morgan Dugan at mdugan@ifbsolutions.org or 336-245-5612.

Roll up your sleeve and help give someone a second chance in life.

 

Employee Spotlight Featuring Lisa Berry, Asheville Facility

Headshot of Lisa Berry

Welcome to the Employee Spotlight. Each week, we celebrate the incredible individuals who make IFB thrive. This week, we are excited to feature Lisa Berry.

Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I was raised in Swannanoa, North Carolina.

Q: How long have you been at IFB, and what brought you to the organization?
A: I have been at IFB for 12 years. An acquaintance suggested I apply, so I reached out to Human Resources and went through the application and hiring process.

Q: What hobbies or activities do you enjoy outside of work?
A: I love spending time outdoors with my family—especially hiking and camping from sunrise to sunset. I also enjoy attending concerts and reading.

Q: What’s your all-time favorite food or meal?
A: Italian and American foods are my favorites.

Q: What do you enjoy most about working at IFB?
A: I really value the independence I have at work—it’s a great feeling.

Q: What’s a quote or word of advice you’d give to a friend?
A: “Be the BEST you that you can possibly be!”

Special thanks to Administrative Assistant Denise Drake for supporting these highlights. Who knows? You might be next in the spotlight! Stay tuned, and thanks for reading.

 

Winston-Salem Facility Support Groups

If you’re interested in attending a support group, please review the update here: https://ifbsolutions.org/the-ifb-beat-12-16-edition/#two-d

 

 

From Our Community

Inspiration Station: Are You Checking In Or Checking On?

Welcome to Inspiration Station, a space in the IFB Beat created to help you pause, reflect and recharge. You won’t see it every week, but whenever it appears, it is here to motivate, challenge and encourage you to bring your best, whether you are on the clock or off. Think of it as a gentle nudge, a fresh perspective and a reminder that your voice matters, your impact is real and your mindset shapes everything.

When life gets busy, it is easy to move through the day on autopilot. Inspiration Station is your chance to reset and refocus because how we show up matters, and someone out there needs exactly what you bring.

Are you checking in or checking on?

Checking on is process-focused:

  • How’s the project coming along?
  • Will we hit the deadline?
  • Has the order been placed?
  • Are the chores complete?
  • Did you finish your homework?

Checking in is people-focused:

  • How are you doing today?
  • How are you feeling?
  • Tell me how things are going.
  • What do you need right now?
  • What if I just listen?

Both matter. Both have a place. But without intention, checking on more than checking in can quickly turn into micromanagement. The goal is balance giving attention not only to the process, but also to the people behind it.

Source: ReviveYourWork.com

 

HR & Opportunities

Job Opportunities

Sewing Machine Operator IV, Asheville facility

Education and Work Experience

  • Prior experience performing difficult sewing functions using an industrial sewing machine.
  • Consistently meet production and quality standards of a Level III operator.

Internal candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/220110

External candidates may apply at https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/portal/8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909/jobs/220111?jpt=ce8685cef740a6280b5fcb492b556fa5

For all current openings, visit https://www.paycomonline.net/v4/ats/web.php/jobs?clientkey=8B43E6E34C5D5C9AA3D07BB04DBEB909. For more information, please contact a member of the recruitment team at careers@ifbsolutions.org.

 

IFB Beat Phone Lines

English line: 336-245-5691

Spanish line: 336-245-5663

 

Zoom Meeting Links

Support Group Zoom

https://ifbsolutions.zoom.us/j/86167111929?pwd=G9vSBWcnTFrMHixqb19TpU7q8sQW1N.1

Meeting ID: 861 6711 1929
Passcode: 992614

One tap mobile:
+13126266799,86167111929# US (Chicago)
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888 475 4499 US Toll-free
877 853 5257 US Toll-free