Manufacturing a Better Community
LEDWELL & Sons started in Texarkana, Texas in 1946. After starting in the lumber industry, they began building pickup racks and livestock trailers. Close to 80 years later, they have grown into the most well known name in the manufacturing, truck and trailer, and office supply industries. However, Ledwell offers even more. Part of Ledwell’s mission in providing their customers with quality products, is to provide their community with the promise to do what is right, “because thats what family does.” They have opened their doors to the community with scheduled tours and helping the local youth understand what manufacturing really means. Ledwell’s commitment to inspiring future innovators is shown through several of their current programs that help educate young women on their role in the manufacturing fields, promote high school juniors and seniors to work toward a rewarding carrer in manufacturing through internships, and partnering with local agencies to continue to educate the surrounding communities.
Brad Stringer has worked for Ledwell for 30 years serving as a welder and floor supervisor. He is also connecting Ledwell with the youth of the Texarkana and surrounding communities in an effort to educate them on the benefits of the manufacturing industry. “We are helping the students see what we do and what manufacturing really is,” Brad said. “This type of education gives them a choice when it comes to going into the workforce after high school.” Brad participates in speaking directly to the students as well as career fairs at high schools and colleges. “Not everyone plans to go to college right after high school, so it is important to educate the students on what our community has to offer,” Brad said. He schedules tours with the school’s administration to aide in the endeavor. They also help the students with mock job interviews so that the students feel more comfortable with job interviews as an adult. Brad takes personal pride in speaking with every student. “I tell everyone that life is about the choices you make. When you find what you really want to do, jump in with both feet!” he said. Ledwell also offers summer internship programs for specific roles in their manufacturing industries. They give the student a first hand look at what their future could look like in a specific manufacturing role. They educate on safety, work load, specific requirements and more. Completing an internship can open that student to the potential of a full time job with Ledwell. So , the Education Outreach Team at Ledwell began hosting “Signing Days” in order to provide a truly memorable experience for those who choose to work for Ledwell. This can be held at the school or Ledwell’s office. They allow the student to invite friends and family to be a part of this as well as their educators. They want this to be a wonderful experience for all. The first Friday of October of every year is Manufacturing Day. It is the kick off of Manufacturing Week. This is a dedicated time used by communities all over the United States to educate on how important manufacturing industries are to the fabric of our country. It is a time set aside to celebrate the advancements made and the innovation of the people who drive technology forward. For more information about how you or your student can be a part of the forward thinking at Ledwell & Sons Enterprises, please contact Brad Stringer at [email protected].
By Katie Stone
