Texarkana College Opens the Betty and Buddy Ledwell Workforce Training Center
Texarkana College recently opened its new Workforce Training Center and dedicated the building in memory of Betty and Buddy Ledwell. The Ledwell family has been a vital part of economic development in this region since establishing their business in 1946. Today, Ledwell serves as one of the area’s largest employers, manufacturing custom-made trailers, trucks, bodies and parts for the transportation industry; the company has diversified over the years to meet the needs of other industrial clients, also. Former TC president James Henry Russell said the Ledwell name in the community is synonymous with excellence, honor and superior work ethic.
“The programs housed in the new Betty and Buddy Ledwell Workforce Training Center prepare students to enter the workplace with skills in industrial maintenance, construction technology, and other in-demand occupations,” said Russell. “It is paramount that our students know the importance of having a good work ethic along with having a technical skill— that’s what makes a difference between a good employee and a great employee. We are teaching the importance of work ethic at Texarkana College, and our area employers expect that from us.”
Russell said students who enroll in these programs can expect to work in classrooms equipped with state-of-the art equipment and to be trained by faculty who have years of experience in the field. TC’s workforce training programs have an enrollment of more than 670 students, with close to 100 of these students currently enrolled in either the Industrial Maintenance or Construction Technology courses. Classes are offered during the day and evening.
“We have employers contact us every day looking for skilled workers equipped with industry knowledge in the latest trends in manufacturing and construction technology. Our students not only learn from the best and have access to the newest technology, but they also have job opportunities waiting for them when they successfully complete our programs,” Russell said. “These jobs are in high demand and come with good pay, benefits, and a better future for themselves and their families. We are so pleased to offer this service to our community to help sustain a skilled workforce and build a stronger regional economic base.”
Russell said the 20,000 sq. ft. building was built on a modest budget with much of the work done in-house, with Rick Boyette, Director of Facility Services, serving as the general contractor.
