A close-knit community in Shippensburg

Named one of the ‘100 Best Small Towns in America’, Shippensburg’s unique blend of industry, agriculture, and education, combined with its proximity to major cities like Washington, New York, and Philadelphia, makes it an attractive place to live and work.

When Brazilian-born Geovana Zambon moved from Volvo CE’s Pederneiras site in Brazil to Shippensburg for an exciting new opportunity as a Senior Commodity Buyer, she discovered first-hand the town’s inclusive spirit. Adapting to a new language and culture could have been tricky, but Geovana was made to feel very much at home.

“As an only child, I wasn’t sure about moving away from Brazil and leaving my family behind. But I’ve been really lucky and settled in well. Everyone in Shippensburg was really welcoming. There are quite a few Brazilians at the site, and they offered me helpful tips. I try to pay this warm welcome forward when other new people join us here.”

In spite of its large size and scale, Shippensburg retains a strong sense of community, with everyone looking out for one another, creating an environment that’s reminiscent of a supportive family.

Aftermarket Buyer, Sheena Mowers, explains this: “I came to Shippensburg for college 23 years ago and never really left! It has a rural feel, while still being close enough to the city. I know that we like to say that working at Volvo CE is like a family, but for me that literally is the case. Since I started working here, my husband took on a role as a welder and now my stepson is here working on the wheel loader assembly line. Even my father-in-law is retired from Volvo!”

Professional growth and encouragement are also hallmarks of the Shippensburg experience, as highlighted by Brent Smith’s career transition from a technical training position to a competence development role. “I have always felt encouraged to grow professionally at Volvo CE, and in Shippensburg, and that mindset allowed me to think of new ideas over my time here and – in the end – try something totally new.”

In 2024, Volvo CE celebrated 50 years of manufacturing at its Shippensburg site. While significant investment has been made in the facilities and services, it is the people and culture that make it a truly inspiring place to work.

Chris Stone, Head of Supplier Development in North America, encapsulates this sentiment. “The culture is brilliant - very collaborative and supportive. We have that mindset where the customer comes first and we’re going to do everything we can to help, we’re always trying to add value. The work ethic is so strong – and I’ve realized that these are the types of people I gravitate towards outside of work too: people who are positive and upbeat and glasses half full. That really is Shippensburg, the people are just wonderful.”

Shippensburg isn’t just a great place to work, it’s also a friendly and relaxed community with a wide variety of amenities. From its charming local shops to recreational facilities, Shippensburg offers something for everyone, making it a great place to work but also a wonderful place to call home.

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