York’s AlphaVets Inc. Grows Amid Pandemic Challenges
York, South Carolina — AlphaVets Inc., a company founded in 2019 by veteran and healthcare professional Cynthia Spragg, has made significant strides since its inception, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Spragg, who serves as the company president, brings with her 35 years of military experience, primarily in medical roles.
The company’s vice president, Joan Wunk, has a rich background with over 20 years of experience in managing government contracts. Meanwhile, chief financial officer Shawn Lydon has held various leadership roles in healthcare management. Together, this team has positioned AlphaVets for growth and success in a challenging industry.
The Birth of AlphaVets
AlphaVets was conceived partly due to Spragg’s extensive military and healthcare background. “AlphaVets really came to fruition when the Covid pandemic hit,” Spragg noted. The company’s first contract involved supplying 2 million face masks for the state of New York, showcasing its capability almost immediately.
Spragg’s military journey began when she joined the Navy Reserves in 1986. She played active roles during key military operations including Operation Desert Storm and Operation Enduring Freedom, before serving during the pandemic as a hospital corpsman. Her dedication to education led her to earn several degrees, culminating in a doctorate in health and rehabilitation sciences.
Challenges and Opportunities
Despite facing obstacles in establishing themselves with larger healthcare companies due to their status as a new business, AlphaVets found success in securing government contracts. In 2021, they started working on national pandemic kits for FEMA, which solidified their presence in federal contracting.
Today, AlphaVets has grown to service essential government clients, including the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs and the U.S. Department of Defense. Their current contracts encompass providing customized surgical packs, shipping and packaging, and outpatient pharmacy thermal labels.
Community and Expansion Plans
With a dedicated staff of seven employees, AlphaVets is on a path towards further expansion. The company aims to acquire land in York County to construct a 7,500-square-foot facility that will include office space and manufacturing capabilities. This move is expected to not only enhance their production efficiency but also create more jobs locally, specifically aimed at hiring veterans.
In addition to federal contracts, AlphaVets is committed to supporting state needs, having supplied oxygen tanks and over 1 million meals-ready-to-eat (MREs) to assist victims of Hurricane Helene.
Spragg’s Leadership Philosophy
Spragg’s extensive military experience has equipped her with essential skills in managing a business. She emphasizes the importance of hiring the right individuals and possessing the necessary skill sets to lead teams effectively. “Hiring the right people and having the right skill set to lead people can be challenging, but the military helped me with that,” she stated.
Conclusion
As AlphaVets Inc. continues to grow, its leadership looks forward to future opportunities within the healthcare and government sectors. The company strives not only to meet federal demands but also to uplift the local community by creating jobs and supporting veterans. With a firm foundation and a clear vision, AlphaVets stands poised for a bright future.
