Porvair Filtration Group, based in Hanover County, Virginia, designs and manufactures advanced filtration systems used in space, defense, and industrial applications worldwide—all from its high-tech hub in Ashland.
Tucked away in the Town of Ashland within Hanover County, Virginia, Porvair Filtration Group is quietly making a global impact from the International Space Station (ISS) to military aircraft and satellite launch systems. As a leader in advanced filtration and separation technologies, Porvair designs and manufactures highly specialized filters used in some of the harshest environments on (and off) Earth. One of their filters scrubs carbon dioxide aboard the ISS. Others are used in space capsules, rocket launch vehicles, and next-generation defense platforms—thanks to close partnerships with NASA, U.S. military, and Blue Origin.
Porvair Filtration Group, globally headquartered in the United Kingdom, maintains its United States headquarters in Ashland, Virginia. In addition to the Ashland site, Porvair also operates sister plants in Idaho and Maine, each specializing in distinct technologies. The Ashland facility oversees engineering, manufacturing, and corporate operations. Across all locations, teams collaborate to develop custom filtration solutions where standard filters fall short—often involving stainless steel and applications in corrosive or extreme environments.
As General Manager of Porvair in Ashland, VA, Steve Potter plays a key leadership role in overseeing the company’s U.S. operations, guiding both strategic direction and day-to-day execution. Steve is deeply involved in engineering, manufacturing, and workforce development, fostering collaboration across teams and with local educational institutions. Committed to both innovation and community, he emphasizes creating fulfilling careers for employees and maintaining strong relationships with regional partners to support Porvair’s continued growth and impact in critical aerospace and defense industries.
“We’re often behind the scenes. You wouldn’t know that we’re there, but every system in the world has a filter on it. Somebody’s got to make it, and we make a number of them here in Hanover County,” says Potter.
Hanover County’s strategic location—near ports, interstates, and Richmond International Airport—makes the community an ideal base for global manufacturing operations. Porvair also benefits from a strong local talent pipeline, thanks to partnerships with Virginia trade schools, universities like VCU, and recruiting agencies.
Porvair isn’t just offering jobs; it’s building careers. The company emphasizes personal and professional growth, contributing to a workplace culture that attracts skilled professionals and supports long-term success.
“One of our goals is to provide an attractive career, not just a job and a wage; and so, we put a lot of effort into trying to serve the whole person,” says Potter.
With a high quality of life, strong schools, and access to nature and nearby cities, the region appeals to both individuals and families. Many employees choose to make Hanover their permanent home.
Porvair may operate behind the scenes, but its work is everywhere – proving that some of the world’s most advanced technology is made right here in Hanover County, Virginia.
Learn more at PorvairFiltration.com.