What is it like to live, work, and play in the Roanoke Region of Virginia? See it through the eyes of some of the region’s young professionals in their own words.
Frank Boxley has lived in Roanoke – off and on – for his whole life and currently resides at the foot of Mill Mountain. He works in sales for Steel Dynamics, the third largest steel producer in the United States.
Did you know that Steel Dynamics, Roanoke Bar Division is an Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) steel mill, meaning it derives 98.2% of its finished product from recycled steel scrap? Plus, most of the scrap material (92%) used in the manufacturing process is sourced within a 200-mile radius of Roanoke, Virginia.
5 Questions with Frank Boxley
What’s your favorite part about living in the Roanoke Region?
My favorite part of living in the Roanoke Region is the accessibility to an abundance of excellent outdoor recreation. We have incredible exposure to outdoor recreation that I have found hard to replicate anywhere. The beauty of the Blue Ridge tends to grab hold of you and does not let go.
What professional/social groups are you involved in?
I have attended events such as Experience Outside, Roanoke Valley Young Professionals Organization, Roanoke Blacksburg Technology Council, Fleet Feet Pub Run & Walk, Blue Ridge Bike Club Tuesday Night Rides, Roanoke Mountain Adventures/Roanoke Outside Mountain Bike Rides, L’ Eroica Group Road Bike Rides, and I am sure some others that I am thoughtlessly leaving out. All you need to do is ask, all of these organizations welcome newcomers.
Where is your favorite place to hang out/work out/eat out?
I love to hang out at the local music venues such as 5 Points Music Sanctuary, Dr Pepper Park, and Elmwood. I prefer to work out on the Blue Ridge Parkway and Greenway; sweating with a view > just sweating. I think the Fork in the Alley has the best atmosphere in town.
They have a saying in Montana that if you love it, tell no one and if you hate it, tell everyone. Diverging from that sentiment, I would have to say that my favorite spot is McAfee Knob at sunrise (with a coffee in hand). It reminds me of exactly why I continue to make the decision to call Roanoke my home, it is truly awe-inspiring.
What advice do you have for meeting/finding new people?
Put yourself out there! if you hear of something new, try it out. Many people here, in Roanoke, are working to make Roanoke even more inviting than it naturally is. Be friendly, say hello to everyone you pass. You find great people everywhere.
What do you say as a conversation starter?
In addition to working for Steel Dynamics, Roanoke Bar Division, I work for Patrick Henry High School and Valley Select as a lacrosse coach. I find it so enjoyable to be able to give back to the community that has and continues to give me so much.
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