Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation

by GIS Planning ZoomTour

Meet Our Business Community

The Santa Clarita Valley is home to a vast array of diverse business sectors. The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) hosts a regular podcast, where our President & CEO Holly Schroeder interviews business leaders and explores the many ways that companies connect and contribute to our community.

"SCV Means Business" is now streaming anywhere you listen to your podcasts like iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, as well as on our website and YouTube

Check back often as we add new episodes!

Meet Our Business Community

The Santa Clarita Valley is home to a vast array of diverse business sectors. The Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation (SCVEDC) hosts a regular podcast, where our President & CEO Holly Schroeder interviews business leaders and explores the many ways that companies connect and contribute to our community.

"SCV Means Business" is now streaming anywhere you listen to your podcasts like iTunes, Google Play, Spotify, Stitcher, as well as on our website and YouTube

Check back often as we add new episodes!

Boston Scientific

Tune in as Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation CEO Holly Schroeder interviews Allen Meacham, VP of neuromodulation at Boston Scientific

Discover the work that Boston Scientific is doing using neuromodulation to help relieve pain without medication, and some of the other potential uses for this innovative technology. Allen also discusses what makes Boston Scientific a great place to work.


Places to listen in:

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A Full Service Digital Marketing and Technology Company

This episode features an interview with Jamie Adams, Chief Revenue Officer, and Julia Cook, Executive Vice President of Internet Marketing, at Scorpion, a full-service digital marketing and technology company. 

They share how they have evolved their services to match what consumers are doing and what businesses need to do to be in front of consumers. They also discuss  what makes Scorpion a great place to work, the unique culture of their organization, and reveal an exciting new upcoming project.


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The World's Largest Drumhead Company

Brock Kaericher, the President of REMO Inc., joins the program to discuss the rich history of the company, which includes perfecting and marketing the first successful synthetic drumhead. Brock reveals some of the famous artists who have used Remo drumheads, and how Remo is expanding into additional markets, including the use of drums for health and healing. 


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Investing in Employees For Long Term Success

Ken Wiseman, CEO of AMS Fulfillment, discusses some of the innovative strategies that they are using to develop their workforce. Ken shares how AMS is using the power of partnership to meet logistical challenges, and why the company decided to become a certified B Corporation. He also reveals the long term benefits of investing in employees and why turnover can sometimes be a good thing.


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Creating Exceptional Guest Experiences

In this episode Jan Swartz, President of Princess Cruises, gives us a behind-the-scenes look into the innovative world of the cruise industry and discusses how it has evolved over the years to bring exceptional experiences to guests. Swartz shared how their trademarked wearable technology, the Ocean Medallion, is helping revolutionize and personalize guest experiences on a whole new level, and reveals what she thinks is the best cruise destination in the world.


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Innovate Santa Clarita

In recognition of the 4th annual Innovate Santa Clarita campaign this November, SCVEDC President & CEO Holly Schroeder interviews multiple entreprenuers who are growing their business in Santa Clarita. Discover the range of innovative work being done right here in Santa Clarita. This special episode features interviews with Robert Bruza, CEO of ADVRTAS, James Deck, CEO of Med Tech Solutions, Eric Solis, founder and CEO of MovoCash and Rengarajan Sudharsanan, founder of Acqubit. 


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A Trusted Advisor and Business Partner

Tamara Gurney, President & Chief Executive Officer of Mission Valley Bank, joins the program to discuss why she decided to start a bank and how banks differentiate themselves. She shares what Mission Valley Bank does to act as a business partner and the various services that they provide. She also reveals the most common financial considerations for start-up, mid-level and larger companies.


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Making a Difference in the NICU and Beyond

Craig McCrary, President of Neotech, discusses his company's journey into the neonatal space and the evolution of their product line. He shares how they sort through new product ideas and reveals some exciting new products that the company is developing.


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From Theme Parks to Firefighter Training- How Technifex Creates World Class Effects

In this episode, you'll learn about Technifex, a world leader in concept design and engineering and fabrication of show and entertaining systems, as well as simulation training environments. Discover how technology has changed the industry, and how Technifex services assist with everything from live shows to training for firefighters. 


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Successfully Handling a Leadership Transition

This episode features an interview with Logix Federal Credit Union's new President and CEO Ana Fonseca, and outgoing President and CEO Dave Styler, as they share the practices that contribute to their success and how they get involved with and give back to the community. They share how they have effectively handled the leadership transition at Logix, and key areas of focus for the future. They also reveal the amenities that they will have in their new state-of-the-art headquarters that will make their workforce even more efficient and effective.


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Film and TV Location Management in Santa Clarita- A Behind-The-Scenes Look

Have you ever wondered how film and television companies find interesting and unique locations for their productions? Karen Bryden, owner of SCV Locations, provides a behind-the-scenes look at the industry, and why Santa Clarita is a highly sought after area for filming. Karen also reveals the strangest location request she has ever received!  


SCV LOCATIONS™ offers locations for filming in the Santa Clarita Valley as well as LA film locations throughout the 30-mile studio zone map.  We work hard to pay tribute to all of our locations for their part in supporting filming.

Since 2001 SCV LOCATIONS™ has been locally owned and operated by long-time SCV resident Karen Bryden.  SCV LOCATIONS™ mission is to provide Our Community and the Film Industry with honest, ethical and professional film representation and location management services. Over the past 19 years, SCV Locations has developed and cultivated extensive working relationships with feature film, television and commercial Executive Producers, Directors, Location Managers and Locations Scouts.  Through these relationships SCV LOCATIONS™ has built a reliable network wherein film personnel know who to call to find the specific locations, be they unique or “Anywhere USA,” they are seeking.


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Helping Artists Reach Their Creative Potential

Ravi Rajan, President of the California Institute of the Arts, joins the program to discuss the history and mission of CalArts, and the unique approach that the school takes towards arts education. He reveals some of the technological changes that have created more opportunities for animators and artists, the benefits of being located in Santa Clarita, and the role of the arts in community and economic development.


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Thriving After The Recession

Gary Horton, CEO of Landscape Development, Inc, joins the program to discuss the growth of his company since the last recession, and the lessons that he learned that have contributed to that growth.  Discover the impact that technology is having on the industry, and the creative ways that Landscape Development, Inc. instills and reinforces their company values for both front-line staff and executives.


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Making High Quality Lenses in Santa Clarita

Keith Grossman and Javan Diaz, owners of Simplify Optics, discuss the process of making high quality lenses and how they have carved out a unique niche in their industry. They reveal their philosophy of keeping things simple even in a complex manufacturing process, and what they look for when hiring new employees. They also share their vision for the company moving forward.


Places to listen in:

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A Global Aerospace Controls Leader in the Santa Clarita Valley

Robert Gleason, Executive Director, Product Engineering & PMO for ITT, Inc, joins the program to discuss the work that the company does for both the civilian and military aerospace industries. He reveals some of the recent trends, challenges, and  disruptive forces in aerospace, and how ITT is helping contribute to the future of space exploration.


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WEBSITE

Producing Premium Snacks in Valencia

Trina Davidian, President and CEO of King Henry's Inc, joins the program to discuss the history behind the company, and the products they produce, including premium candy, nuts, trail mixes, and assorted sweets. She reveals how the packaging has evolved over time, and some of the specialty items they produce. She also discusses how automation has changed the production process and why she sought a designation as a woman-owned business.


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A Leading Innovator in the Dietary Supplement Market

 This episode features an interview with Adel Villalobos, President of Lief Labs, as he discusses how being based in Santa Clarita has helped his company to grow. He gives an overview of the dietary supplement market and how it has evolved, and shares takeaways for how to run a successful organization. Discover the importance of culture, values and vision for any business.


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Using the Power of Social Media To Grow Their Brand

This episode features an interview with Jennifer Gerard, President and CEO of Gerard Cosmetics, as she discusses the evolution of her company and why she decided to start her own business. Discover the range of products that the company offers, and how Jennifer uses social media influencers to get the word out about the brand. Jennifer shares her thoughts about the current state of social media, and reveals future collaborations.


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Behind The Golden Arches- The Evolution of McDonalds

In this episode, you'll hear from an owner of several McDonald's stores in Santa Clarita, as he discusses the evolution of the franchise. Discover industry trends and innovations, and how McDonald's is using technology to better serve their customers. 


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The Largest Employer in Santa Clarita

This episode features an interview with Tim Burkhart and Neal Thurman from Six Flags Theme Parks, as they discuss some of the highlights and history of the theme park. They reveal a new coaster and new section of the park that is coming soon, and some of the global projects currently in development. 


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Pioneering Innovative Solutions for Medical Conditions

John Petrovich, CEO of the Alfred Mann Foundation, and Robert Greenberg, Executive Chairman of the Alfred Mann Foundation, join the program to discuss the history and purpose of their organization. Discover how the foundation has helped bring new technology to market for some of the most challenging medical problems, and how they partner with outside companies to maximize their efforts. 

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Providing 3D Custom Printing and Manufacturing Solutions

Stratasys Direct CEO Kent Firestone joins the program to discuss the unique history of 3D printing in Santa Clarita,  and the rise of 3D printing for production. Discover the benefits of 3D printing over traditional manufacturing, and how Stratasys develops unique solutions for customers. 

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An Independent Video Game Developer and Publisher in Santa Clarita

Voldi Way, Founder of WayForward Technologies, joins the program to discuss the evolution of the video game industry, and the history of his company. Voldi also discusses the challenges and opportunities that come with scaling a business, and how WayForward manages large teams. He also reveals how they recruit in a tight labor market, and how they create a positive work culture. 

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A Global Leader in Aerospace Gap Management Solutions

Brian Williams, CEO of Shimtech Industries, joins the program to discuss Lamsco West, Inc., one of Shimtech's business units and the largest single manufacturer of shims and laminated shim stock in the world. You'll learn about the importance of shims in the airplane manufacturing process, and what Shimtech looks for when acquiring a new company. Discover the state-of-the-art composites that are being used to replace metal parts and some of the challenges and opportunities involved. 

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Meeting The Needs of the Rapidly Growing E-commerce Sector


In this Santa Clarita Business Brief, you'll hear about the IAC Commerce Center, and how they support e-commerce businesses.

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A New Industrial Development in Santa Clarita

In this Santa Clarita Business Brief, you'll learn about The Center at Needham Ranch, including the highlights and benefits, and economic drivers of development.


The Center at Needham Ranch campus is a San Fernando Valley-adjacent master-planned business park stretching over 250 acres. State-of-the-art features include generous interior spaces, soaring ceilings, exceptional loading, ample employee parking and limitless possibilities.


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Current tenants include:


Marketing Brochure


Check out the Ox Blue Construction Cam to see the developments progress!

Santa Clarita Valley's Newest Community

In this Santa Clarita Business Brief, you'll learn about Vista Canyon, Southern California’s most innovative new live, work, walk and ride community.

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Changing and Disrupting the Packaging Industry

Preston Geeting, co-founder and director of Packform, joins the program to discuss how his company creates an environment for manufacturers to sell their products to a large network of customers and give customers global access to manufacturers of all types of packaging – custom and commodity – without the need for high overhead distributors that control the market today. Preston reveals the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on his business, and the applications of Packform's technology for other industries. 

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The Nation's Leading Manufacturer of Environmental Control Units

Joe Klinger, Vice President for Applied Companies, joins the program to discuss some of the solutions that they are designing for the military, the application of their technologies for combating the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as addressing indoor air quality.

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Creating a Cleaner, Safer and Healthier World

Richard Hayes, President of UltraViolet Devices, Inc. or UVDI, joins the program to discuss the various applications of ultraviolet technology, including disinfecting drinking water and air disinfection. Discover the important role that ultraviolet technology can play in mitigating COVID-19.

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College of the Canyons- Providing Affordable and Innovative Education and Training

Jeff Forrest, Vice President, Economic and Workforce Development at College of the Canyons, joins the program to discuss how his organization is helping to prepare the workforce of today and the future. Discover the various affordable options for quality education and training available through College of the Canyons. 

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A Leader in Affordable Ultraviolet-C Equipment

Dan Jones, President of UV Resources, joins the program to provide an overview of his company, and the various applications of UV light to improve indoor air quality. Discover the crucial role that ultraviolet light can play in helping to address the COVID-19 pandemic, and how the technology can be implemented in a safe and efficient manner.

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Unlocking Bold Ways of Restoring Skin

Dr. Michael Perry, CEO of AVITA Medical, joins the program to discuss the work that his company does to harness the skin's regenerative capacity to create spray-on skin comprised of the patient's own skin cells. Discover the patients and conditions most likely to need this kind of therapy, and why AVITA Medical decided to move the company from Australia to the Santa Clarita Valley. 

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A Full-Service Film Production and Sound Stage in Santa Clarita

John Prabhu, one of the co-owners of LA North Studios, joins the program to discuss the evolution of his career and LA North Studios, as well as the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic had on his business. Discover trends in production space and the impact of new streaming services on the film and television industry.

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Engaging Audiences Via Cutting-Edge Technology

Michelle Ross, CEO of Vision Media, joins the program to discuss how she came to her current position, and the digital and physical distribution solutions that her company provides. Discover the evolving nature of content creation and consumption and the differing perspectives on the pros and cons of physical DVD's versus digital streaming.

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Navigating the New World of Work with Resurgence IT Founder Jeremy Stepan

Jeremy Stepan, Founder and Owner of Resurgence IT, joins the program to discuss how the COVID-19 pandemic has led to rapid adoption of new technologies for businesses and provides an overview of the services that Resurgence IT provides. Discover the IT needs that were created by a shift to remote work, what you need to consider when it comes to cybersecurity, and how to balance security needs with accessibility and ease of access.

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Becoming a Certified B Corporation

Tony Shepard, CFO of AMS Fulfillment and Craig McCrary, President and COO of NeoTech Products return to the program to discuss what it means to be a B Corporation (B Corp). Tony and Craig discuss why they decided to have their companies be certified B Corporations, reveal the core principles of a B Corp, and discuss the impact of those principles on the culture of their organizations.

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Providing High-End, Customized Solutions

Billy Russell, Vice President and CTO for Alliance Integrated Technology, joins the program to discuss the work that his company does providing high performance storage and computing for the media and entertainment space, as well as other markets. Discover how Alliance Integrated Technology supports film and tv production, and the innovative ways that they met the unique challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Helping Patients Achieve Optimal Brain Functioning

Dr. Mark Liker, world-renowned neurosurgeon and Founder, Owner and President of BrainStim Centers, Inc. joins the program to discuss the work that BrianStim is doing to provide transcranial magnetic stimulation, or TMS, to patients to help improve their brain function. Dr. Liker explains the process of TMS, some of the conditions that TMS can help treat, and how TMS can help patients achieve optimal brain functioning.

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Revolutionizing Film and Production Lighting

Tim and Sarah Hudson, founders of Hudson Spider, share the challenges and opportunities that they faced along the way as they built their company. Tim discusses how while working as a lighting cameraman, he found the need for a light that was soft, directional and mobile, and how he and Sarah then created a parabolic 36” fixture, known as the Redback, which has quickly made its way on to movies, tv shows, commercials and stills shoots.

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Santa Clarita Valley Economic Forecast- with Dr. Mark Schniepp


Dr. Mark Schniepp, Director of the California Economic Forecast, returns to the program to discuss where Santa Clarita Valley is in terms of its recovery from the pandemic induced recession. Discover the state of various industries in Santa Clarita and the impact of trends in the national economy on the region.

Watch the episode on YouTube!

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Pivoting and Thriving During the Pandemic

Tony Cuccio, Founder and President of Cuccio / Star Nail International, joins the program to discuss how he was able to pivot his business during the COVID-19 pandemic, and some of the challenges he has had to overcome over the past several years. Tony reveals how he has been able to find quality talent even during the "Great Resignation" and how the support he has received from the Santa Clarita Valley Economic Development Corporation and has helped his business.

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Providing Cutting-Edge Post Production Solutions

Jason Altman, VP of Business Development and Operations for Elite Media Technologies, joins the program to provide an overview of the services that his company provides and share the story of his own career journey. Jason discusses the various educational paths that can lead to a career in post-production and shares advice for anyone looking to break into the field. Discover the importance of cybersecurity when it comes to protecting content, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on media consumption, and the need for post-production services.


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Building High-Quality Custom Food Trucks in Santa Clarita

Justin Campbell, owner of Firefly Fabrications, joins the program to provide an overview of his company and reveals what goes into the manufacturing and repair of food trucks. Discover what it takes to run a food truck business and how to get set up. Justin reveals the skills that he looks for in a potential employee and the current state of the food truck industry in the U.S.

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Helping People and Organizations Be Their Best

Paul Butler, Owner and Client Parter at Newleaf Training, joins the program to discuss how he came to start his company and provides an overview of the services that Newleaf provides. Discover the 3 greatest barriers that prevent people from achieving their goals and how the pandemic has changed the delivery of training courses. 

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Advancing the Science and Design of Crowd Control and Queue Management

Yoni Lavi, President of Lavi Industries, joins the program to provide an overview of his organization and the various queuing solutions they provide. Yoni shares insights about virtual queuing services and how the COVID-19 pandemic created an increased demand for digital queuing solutions. Discover the management approach and culture that has allowed Lavi Industries to pivot and meet evolving industry demands.  

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A Tour of the Santa Clarita Valley- With Realtor Neal Weichel


This episode features an interview with realtor Neal Weichel of the Neal Weichel Group, as he provides an overview and tour of some of the different areas of the Santa Clarita Valley. Discover some of factors that are driving population growth in the Santa Clarita Valley and the range of homes available. Neal also reveals the pros and cons of new and older homes. 


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Leaders in Neuromodulation

Stacy Chambliss, CEO of Valencia Technologies, joins the program to share the origin story of her organization and reveals details behind their innovative eCoin device. Discover how eCoin is reshaping the delivery of long-term therapy for bladder control. Stacy also discusses the growth that Valencia Technologies has experienced over the past year and the qualities that they look for in job applicants.


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A Next-Generation Contract Manufacturer of Canned Beverages

In this episode you’ll learn about DrinkPAK, a premiere contract manufacturer of premium alcoholic and non-alcohol beverages based in Santa Clarita. Discover what makes DrinkPAK the most technologically advanced canned beverage facility in North America and the skills that DrinkPAK looks for in potential hires. You’ll also hear about how DrinkPAK is addressing environmental and sustainability issues and why they decided to base their business in Santa Clarita. 


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A Leading Independent Clinical Research Company

In this episode, you'll learn about Amicis Research Center and the work they are doing to help advance the clinical research industry. Discover how Amicis serves both medical professionals as well as patients, and the testing process for clinical trials. You'll also hear about the training and background necessary to work in the field of clinical research and the variety of career pathways.

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