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Troy McDuff

At Ledwell, we take pride in the dedication and craftsmanship of our team members, and Troy McDuff is no exception. Since joining Ledwell in 2010, Troy has been a key player in the Fabrication Shop, taking on new challenges with every project.

He began his career welding hydraulic tanks, but his skill set has grown to include welding subframes for Ledwell Vacuum Trucks over the years.

“It’s nice to have a little variety,” Troy says. “During peak season, I also help assemble different truck components to keep production moving.”

Through his years at Ledwell, Troy has learned that patience is one of the most valuable lessons in the trade. He has worked alongside many people, setting an example of strong work ethic and perseverance for new colleagues. His reliability and grit make him a standout member of the Ledwell family.

“Troy is dependable, hard-working, dedicated to doing the job right, and to doing it as fast as possible,” says Brad Stringer, his foreman.

Outside of work, Troy enjoys spending time with his wife, Deana, and their two children. He enjoys watching his grandchildren play baseball, soaking in America’s favorite pastime. He also gives back to his community by donating plasma and platelets several times a year. “It’s quite a neat process,” he says. “I love to give back and have collected several t-shirts from donating.”

Troy describes himself as reliable, and his actions back that up every day. He embodies Ledwell’s core values, especially grit—working hard and always getting the job done. We are proud to have him on our team.

Ledwell East Providing Refurbished Solutions

Ledwell East Refurbished Equipment

Ledwell East: A Commitment to Quality on the East Coast

 

Fayetteville, North Carolina, sits along the Cape Fear River in the Carolina Sandhills, a region known for its resilience—just like the hardworking folks who call it home. That same grit and determination make it the perfect place for Ledwell East, our second location, established in 2008 to provide parts and service to our East Coast customers.

What started as a parts and service center has grown into a full-scale operation, handling final manufacturing processes and refurbishing equipment. With the same high standards as our Texarkana headquarters, Ledwell East ensures every job is done right.

Before & After Refurbishing Feed Trailer

The Art of Refurbishing: Giving New Life to Bulk Haul Feed Trailers

 

When a Bulk Haul Feed Trailer rolls into the Fayetteville shop for refurbishment, our team follows a precise step-by-step process to restore it to peak condition.

1. First, it gets a proper bath.

A thorough wash strips away dirt and buildup, making it easier to evaluate what needs attention.

2. Next, our experts test every system

Hydraulics, pneumatics, and electrical components—to pinpoint any hidden issues.

3. Finally, a detailed visual inspection

Inside and out ensures that nothing is overlooked. This walk-through helps the team determine what needs repair or replacement and estimate the time required to get it back on the road.

Before Refurbishing
After Refurbished Feed Trailer

No Job Too Big, No Trailer Too Uncommon

 

While feed trailers are a common sight in the Fayetteville shop, every now and then, something unfamiliar rolls through the doors. But that never slows the team down. They bring innovation and problem-solving to every project, using their expertise to tackle any challenge.

At Ledwell East, it’s not just about fixing equipment—it’s about keeping businesses moving and ensuring every customer gets the reliable, high-quality service they expect. No matter the challenge, our team rolls up their sleeves and gets the job done.

Get a Free Equipment Evaluation

Not sure what repairs you need?

Our team will inspect your equipment and provide a detailed assessment. Contact us now!

Rusty McCrary

At Ledwell, we know that the heart of our company isn’t just in the equipment we build—it’s in the people who make it happen. This month’s Buddy Award winner is Rusty McCrary, a dedicated employee since 2011.

Rusty’s day-to-day work in the Maintenance Department is anything but predictable.

“It can go from 1 mph to 100 mph real quick,” he says. But that’s part of what keeps the job interesting.

No matter how busy things get, one thing remains constant: the people. “They’re like family,” Rusty says. That sense of teamwork and support makes coming to work every day worthwhile.

One of Rusty’s proudest moments at Ledwell was leading the fabrication of a custom 8” Vacuum Boom for a specialized vacuum truck while working on the company’s manufacturing side. The project was no small task—it required problem-solving and close collaboration with the team to bring the concept to life. Rusty took charge, refining the design and ensuring that every detail worked as intended. His dedication helped turn an idea into a fully functional piece of equipment.

Rusty says he most relates to two of Ledwell’s core values: Grit and Family. “I will work on something until it’s done and it’s right,” he says. That determination, along with his drive to help others, is what keeps him motivated every day.

Outside of work, Rusty is all about the open road – or open water. Whether riding his motorcycle or taking the boat out, anything “in the wind” is his kind of fun. He also stays busy with his family, which includes four daughters and several grandkids.

Rusty, we appreciate your hard work, dedication, and the impact you’ve made at Ledwell. Here’s to many more years of keeping things running smoothly!

Winter 2025

Teamwork in Action: Helping Communities Recover

 

When disaster strikes, it takes hard work, quick action, and strong partnerships to help communities rebuild. After Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, the First Response Team of America—a non-profit dedicated to disaster relief—was one of the first on the scene. Founder Tad Agoglia led the charge, whose team worked tirelessly to bring relief to the hardest-hit areas.

Read more

The Story of the Knuckle Boom Trailer

 

When Texas First Rentals faced challenges transporting large equipment like the CAT 323 while meeting Texas height restrictions, they turned to Ledwell for a custom solution.

 

Read more

Employee Spotlight: John Crisp

 

John Crisp has been a Regional Manager and Corporate Counsel since 2014. He brings a customer-first mindset, problem-solving passion, and a commitment to U.S. manufacturing. “Our nation’s future depends on producing the products and equipment that drive progress and stability,” he shares.

Read more

Buddy Award Winners

 

The Buddy Award is an employee recognition program honoring individuals who embody Buddy Ledwell’s spirit. Recipients are celebrated for their unwavering commitment to our core values: Quality, Grit, Legacy, and Family.

These outstanding team members excel in their roles and inspire others. The Buddy Award is a testament to their hard work, integrity, and positive impact at Ledwell.

Fredy Montalban

Ledwell Machinery

Matt Lolies

Machine Shop

Sam Garcia

Feedbody Shop

Las Vegas

January 12-15

IPPE

Atlanta

January 28-30

The ARA Show

Las Vegas

January 29-February 1

 

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Teamwork in Action: Helping Communities Recover

When disaster strikes, it takes hard work, quick action, and strong partnerships to help communities rebuild. After Hurricane Helene hit North Carolina, the First Response Team of America—a non-profit dedicated to disaster recovery—was one of the first on the scene. Founder Tad Agoglia led the charge, whose team worked tirelessly to bring relief to the hardest-hit areas.

This time, they had a critical partner: NED (National Equipment Dealers), whose support and equipment made all the difference. NED used Ledwell Rollbacks to deliver machinery to areas devastated by the storm, ensuring the necessary tools arrived quickly and efficiently. Agoglia described the devastation caused by the storm:

“Homes were destroyed, roads were impassable, and families were left stranded. We knew we had to move fast to help people get back on their feet.”

With their team of experts and specialized equipment, they quickly began clearing debris, restoring access, and providing critical aid.

NED played a key role in supporting the relief efforts and delivering the equipment and resources necessary to get the job done. With loaders, excavators, and skilled operators on the ground, NED’s team amplified the First Response Team’s ability to clear roads, remove dangerous debris, and reach stranded families. Ledwell trailers were also critical in helping First Response transport the tools they needed to complete their life-saving work.

“Partnerships like these allow us to respond quickly and effectively,” Agoglia shared. “NED provided the right equipment and shared in our mission of helping communities recover. Their dedication and expertise were truly invaluable.”

The partnership between the First Response Team and NED had an immediate and lasting impact. Their combined efforts restored access to vital areas, giving local families and businesses a chance to begin rebuilding.

At Ledwell, we believe in practical solutions and solid partnerships, whether building reliable equipment or supporting efforts like these.

We’re proud to work with organizations like the First Response Team of America and partners like NED, who step up to get the job done. Their teamwork and dedication remind us of what’s possible when people come together to help those in need.

National Equipment Dealers (NED) had employees directly impacted by Helene. It was an honor to partner with Tad and First Response Team of America to help those employees and the communities they live in around Asheville, NC. NED is very grateful to Tad and those who support First Response, like Ledwell, for what they did for our team and what they do in the aftermath of these terrible tragedies. We are excited to actively support First Response in the future.

Zack KavanaughNED

Michael Applebaum

Michael Applebaum is a dedicated and skilled operator who has been part of the Ledwell family since August 2011.

He began his career at Ledwell at the Torch, a machine designed to cut various sheets of metal. Today, he operates the Laser, a more advanced piece of equipment that provides faster and more precise metal cutting. Both machines share the same mission of turning raw materials into custom solutions, but the Laser’s precision is unmatched.

Michael admits there are too many to choose from when asked about his favorite project. Each day brings unique challenges and opportunities, which he approaches with enthusiasm. 

Through his time at Ledwell, Michael has learned the importance of being prepared for anything.

“You might have to pivot at any moment,” he explains. “As long as you have an open mind and are ready to work, you’ll be good.” This resilience aligns perfectly with the Ledwell values. One of them is grit, which Michael lives by. “I like getting the job done,” he says. “I really enjoy it.” 

Outside of work, Michael is a family man. He and his wife, Faith, have been married for nearly 15 years and are proud parents to three children: Aubrey, Kenslee, and Weston.

Michael Applebaum exemplifies the hardworking attitude that defines Ledwell. We are proud to have him on our team and grateful for the dedication he brings to his craft every day. Thank you, Michael, for all you do!

John Crisp

John Crisp has been a member of the Ledwell team for 10 years, joining in March 2014. As a Regional Manager and Corporate Counsel, he brings strategic insight and a customer-focused approach to every aspect of his role.

He is very proud to represent Ledwell’s legacy of American manufacturing. “We don’t just build equipment—we create solutions that drive businesses and the economy forward,” John says.

His workdays focus on building relationships with new and existing customers, tackling challenges, and ensuring every opportunity is met with innovative solutions and the collaborative spirit that defines Ledwell.
One of his most rewarding professional experiences has been working closely with Wholesale Electric Supply, another family-owned company based in Texarkana. Their shared commitment to supporting regional growth has made this partnership especially meaningful.

Over the years, John has seen firsthand that putting customers first is essential to Ledwell’s success, a commitment driven by the team’s determination to solve problems and overcome challenges. As a passionate advocate for U.S. manufacturing, John encourages young talent to pursue careers in this vital field.

“Our nation’s future depends on producing the products and equipment that drive progress and stability,” he explains.

For him, working at Ledwell is more than a job—it’s about contributing to a legacy of craftsmanship, community, and excellence that stands the test of time.

John is a proud Longhorn and a graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. He met his wife, Kelley, while attending law school in Fayetteville, Arkansas. Together, they are raising their 11-year-old son, John Ed.
As a family, they enjoy traveling, cooking, and golfing on weekends.

Beyond his personal life, John is deeply committed to his community, actively supporting CASA and the Texarkana Children’s Advocacy Center through their annual Songwriters on the Edge of Texas concert and golf tournament. This work aligns with his belief in creating opportunities for hope and healing for children in need.

Lower Heights, Greater Versatility: The Story of the Knuckle Boom Trailer

When Texas First Rentals encountered challenges transporting large equipment like the CAT 323 excavator while meeting Texas height restrictions, they turned to Ledwell for a custom solution. The result was the Knuckle Boom Trough (KBT) HydraTail Trailer, a groundbreaking design that addressed their unique needs and streamlined fleet operations.

Identifying the Problem

Ronnie Hulett, Vice President of Texas First Rentals, recognized that while Ledwell HydraTail Trailers performed well, there was an opportunity to enhance their design. By creating more clearance under the legal Texas limit of 14 feet, they could better accommodate large equipment like CAT 323 excavators and rock saws. 

Switching to Detachable Gooseneck trailers was a potential solution, but it would have sacrificed flexibility for smaller units, making it an impractical option.

“We needed a solution that maintained versatility while reducing load height,” said Hulett.

The Collaboration

In 2016, Hulett reached out to Mica Morse at Ledwell with what he described as a “wild idea” to lower the trailer’s load height. This conversation sparked a collaborative effort between the Texas First and Ledwell teams.

“Collaborations like this are imperative to understanding our customers’ needs,” said Michael Hawkins, Director of Operations at Ledwell. “They challenge us to innovate and deliver tailored solutions.”

Ledwell brought Texas First to their plant for open-table discussions. The team developed a clear vision for the trailer through collaboration and brainstorming, combining innovative ideas with practical design expertise.

Ricky Green, the Trailer Shop Foreman at the time, quickly conceptualized how to “carve out” the Knuckle Boom Trough. In true Ledwell fashion, an existing trailer was modified to include the trough within a few days. This straightforward yet innovative solution allowed the trailer’s frame to absorb the excavator’s height, reducing overall transport height without lowering the deck height.

After using the modified trailers successfully for some time, Texas First identified a secondary challenge. Wheeled equipment with low ride heights, like scissor lifts, struggled with the slope transitions between the trailer’s tail and the lowered main deck. Ledwell initially placed a few trailers with modified slopes into the field for testing and feedback.

The Outcome

“The result was a versatile trailer that addressed every need, from large excavators to low clearance wheeled equipment,” Hawkins explained.

Ledwell standardized all double-drop trailer slopes to an 8-degree angle based on their performance, ensuring smoother transitions without compromising the trailer’s core functionality.

The KBT Trailer has become a cornerstone of Texas First’s fleet. By customizing their trailers, the company reduced their fleet size and costs, replacing multiple trailer types with a single, all-in-one solution.

“The flexibility of this trailer allows us to handle almost any piece of equipment in our fleet,” said Hulett. “It’s increased our efficiency and lowered our fleet spend.”

Drivers have given positive feedback, praising the ease of loading and unloading and faster turnaround times. The elongated slope, a late-stage addition to the design, further enhanced functionality without sacrificing the trough’s primary purpose.

The project’s success wasn’t just about the trailer. It showcased the value of collaboration between Ledwell and Texas First. The open dialogue, combined expertise, and mutual trust created a better product and deepened the partnership between the two companies.

“Texas First’s familiarity with our products and their willingness to bring challenges to us reflects the trust we’ve built together,” said Morse. “Every obstacle became an opportunity to improve and innovate.”

Looking Forward

The Knuckle Boom Trailer’s success has made it one of Ledwell’s most frequently built trailers, proving that custom solutions can have far-reaching impacts.

“If you’re considering working with Ledwell, don’t hesitate,” said Hulett. “Their commitment to their customers and products is unmatched.”

The partnership between Texas First and Ledwell demonstrates what’s possible when innovation meets collaboration. This project exemplifies Ledwell’s dedication to understanding and solving customer challenges. Whether you need a Knuckle Boom Trailer to enhance your operations or have a bold idea for a custom solution, Ledwell is ready to collaborate and bring it to life. 

Contact us today to learn how we can innovate together and elevate your fleet to new heights.

Sam Garcia

Sam Garcia has worked in the Ledwell Feedbody shop since joining the team in March 2012. With over a decade of experience, Sam’s craftsmanship has made him a key contributor to the department.

He’s worked on flatbeds, dump beds, and every part of a Feed Trailer, showcasing his versatility and commitment to quality. Today, he manufactures essential components like uprights, discharges, and horse heads for various trailers.

Ryan Whitehead, one of Sam’s foremen, describes him as someone you can always count on. “Sam is the guy who, no matter what you ask of him, is always willing to get it done,” Ryan says. This reliability and can-do attitude have earned Sam the respect of his co-workers throughout the shop.

Sam’s passion for his work stems from the mentors he’s had along the way. “They love what they do and get things done. I try to do the same,” he says. Their influence has shaped his approach, echoing a shared commitment to excellence and efficiency.

Outside of work, Sam is a family man. He and his wife, Sandra, have been married for 18 years and have three children—Blana, Alhia, and Mateo. Together, they enjoy traveling and keeping busy with activities for the kids, creating cherished family memories.

Sam’s story is one of dedication and hard work. He exemplifies the values that drive every product we make, and we’re proud to have him on our team.

Thank you, Sam, for over a decade of excellence and for helping us build a legacy of lasting craftsmanship.

Matt Lolies

At Ledwell, our success depends on skilled and dedicated professionals like Matt Lolies. This year marks an impressive milestone—20 years since Matt joined our team.

Matt began his career right after high school, stepping into the Brake and Shear department. He was then moved to the Machine Shop, where he would expand his expertise. Over the years, Matt honed his skills across various challenging projects, from working with hydraulics to paddle chains and gear hobs. He runs the manual lathe and mills today, producing unique one-off parts and handling bulk manufacturing needs. 

One of the most challenging aspects of his work is machining parts for equipment built 20 to 30 years ago, which Ledwell continues to support. It’s proof of the enduring value of our products.

The pride from seeing finished equipment roll down the road motivates Matt. “Knowing I was a part of what made that equipment gives me pride,” he says. Beyond the technical aspects, his favorite part of the job is passing on his knowledge. “I have trained several over the years, and some have advanced through the company,” Matt shares, underscoring the importance of mentorship and growth.

Matt offers simple yet powerful advice for those aspiring to enter the world of manufacturing: “Start with an open mind.” It’s a reminder that adaptability and a willingness to learn are crucial for success.

His inspiration is rooted in family. His parents, especially his father, who also worked at Ledwell until his passing, have left an unforgettable mark on his work ethic and values. Outside of work, Matt enjoys the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing, and dedicates time to the Redwater Volunteer Fire Department—showing the commitment to community service that Ledwell employees are known for.

Here’s to Matt and many more successful years ahead!

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