When it comes to building something strong from the ground up, Dylan Smith knows the job starts with precision. Since 2017, Dylan has been a vital part of the Ledwell team, working in the Fabrication Shop as a Code Welder and Jigger, the first step in building our Vacuum Tanks.

His job is all about alignment and accuracy. “I have to line up pieces of the tank perfectly and then weld them together,” Dylan says. The parts he works with include two large tank shells, rings, and angles. He handles the inside welds before passing the tank to the next welder for external work.

As a certified Code Welder, every weld Dylan makes is held to the highest standard, tested and inspected without compromise. It’s a job that comes with serious responsibility. “If I don’t do my job right, someone could be critically injured,” he says. That accountability drives his focus and pride in his craft.

Dylan hasn’t always worked on vacuum tanks. He once built Loading Ramps and credits that time for helping him grow his skill set, especially thanks to his former partner, Levi, who he says taught him a lot. 

The most challenging part of his job? Exceeding expectations. But Dylan wouldn’t have it any other way.

For anyone thinking about a career in manufacturing, his advice is simple: “Have a strong work ethic. Never turn down possibilities.”

Outside of work, Dylan stays busy with his family. He and his wife, Kelsey, have been married since 2012. Together, they’re raising a son and daughter. When he’s not welding, you can find him on the sidelines coaching soccer and spending quality time with his kids.

Dylan Smith is a reminder of what makes Ledwell strong: skilled hands, a serious work ethic, and a heart for family. We’re proud to have him on the team.

Romondo Carroll keeps the machines running and the parts moving. Since 2017, he’s been an essential part of the Machine Shop, currently operating three CNC machines, including our newest gear hob. One of his proudest accomplishments on the job was creating a program from scratch to recreate a discontinued part. With only engineering drawings to work from, Romondo figured it out through trial, error, and a lot of determination.

“I wanted to be on a winning team, and that’s what Ledwell is,” he says. That mindset drives how he approaches each day – rotating through machines, solving problems, and holding himself to a high standard. “I compete against myself to do my best. I care about what I do, and that’s what helps me show up every day.”

Romondo has worked on nearly every machine in the shop, but says he enjoys the ones he’s currently running the most. He credits much of his growth to the late Ken Coltharp, the longtime Machine Shop Foreman. “Ken taught me a lot. He was my mentor. I still use what he showed me.”

Most folks don’t realize how much math goes into his work. Romondo spends a good portion of his day converting measurements and dialing in precision.

For Romondo, it’s not just about the work; it’s about the people. “The Ledwells know you. They care. It feels good to be part of a company that’s growing and still feels like family.”

Thank you, Romondo, for your dedication, your skill, and the pride you bring to your work every day. We’re proud to have you on the team.

If you’ve ever set foot in the Machine Shop, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with John Berbig. And if you haven’t, his work has still likely had a hand in something you’ve seen roll out of the yard. For the past 14 years, John has been a steady presence at Ledwell, rising to the role of Leadman thanks to his strong work ethic and commitment.

When asked what keeps him coming back every day, John doesn’t hesitate. “The environment is what motivates me. Ledwell takes care of you and you don’t find that at most places”, he said. That sense of care and opportunity is what fuels his drive, whether it’s helping a teammate or taking on the next challenge in the shop.

John is especially proud of completing the SEED Program, calling it a turning point in his journey at Ledwell.

“It opens a doorway for anyone up and coming to see more about the company,” John says. “It builds bonds between employees.”

That experience not only strengthened his understanding of the business but deepened his connection with the people who keep it running.

One of the biggest lessons he’s learned is it’s okay to fail but never give up. Failing is where you learn lessons and grow. It’s a mindset that fits right in at Ledwell, where grit and growth go hand in hand.

And when it comes to precision, John knows most folks wouldn’t guess the level of detail that goes into the Machine Shop. It’s not just using a tape measurer. We’re talking about microns of accuracy for some parts. It’s that kind of exactness that keeps Ledwell equipment running strong job after job.

Outside of work, John is a proud husband to Chelsea, and together they’re raising five kids—four girls and one boy. That same sense of responsibility carries over into everything he does at Ledwell.

We’re proud to shine a light on John Berbig. A leader, a mentor, and a reminder that real craftsmanship starts with people who care.

For the past 14 years, Kyle Hillis has been a key member of the Ledwell team, hauling equipment across the US and Canada, ensuring our customers receive what they need, when and where they need it.

But Kyle does more than just deliver equipment. He is also part of our field service effort, stepping in to troubleshoot and make repairs when a customer needs a hand. Right now, he is on the road heading across the country to do just that.

When asked what a typical day looks like, Kyle just laughs. “There’s no such thing as a typical day when you’re a driver,” he says. “Every job depends on the destination.”

What stays consistent is Kyle’s commitment to the customer. He especially enjoys delivering to first time Ledwell buyers. “You can always see their excitement,” he says. “I like training them on how to operate the equipment. It’s rewarding to be part of that first impression.”

Over the years, Kyle has picked up some valuable lessons. The biggest one? “Pay attention. Be aware of what you’re doing and what’s around you.” It is advice that serves him well when navigating long hauls and customer sites across North America.

Ask him what keeps him going, and his answer is simple. “Up here is like family. That makes it easy to be motivated every day.”

When he is not behind the wheel, Kyle enjoys golfing with his partner of five years, Misty. He is also a proud grandfather, spoiling three grandkids with two more on the way.

We are proud to have Kyle represent Ledwell on the road. His dedication, attitude, and experience make him more than just a driver. He is a trusted face of the Ledwell brand.