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Ledwell Team

Ledwell Team
In Employee Spotlight

Don Fox

Ledwell Employee Spotlight August 2023

Ledwell is proud to spotlight Don Fox, a member of our Quality Control Team. His dedication and expertise make him invaluable to our company.

Don’s career at Ledwell started in 2006 in the Machine Shop, where he quickly became a natural. Despite having no prior knowledge of programming CNC machines, Don took on the challenge. It wasn’t long before he mastered the art of writing code to instruct the machines, transforming raw materials into perfectly crafted parts for our equipment.

Don has always strived for excellence, taking great pride in his work. His commitment earned him a crucial role in Quality Control, performing DOT inspections with efficiency.

When asked about his work in Quality Control, Don beamed enthusiastically, “I enjoy the fast-paced nature of the job; it keeps me on my toes and offers the chance to solve different challenges.”

Ledwell Employee Spotlight August 2023 - Don Fox

Don treasures his family above all else. He has been married to his wife Sheri for 16 years. He enjoys the time spent with his family, which includes three sons and four grandchildren – with one more on the way! Taking every opportunity to create lasting memories with the family often results in camping adventures during his free time.

When asked about his inspirations, Don fondly recalls Mr. Buddy, a mentor who impacted him.

“Mr. Buddy embodied the same work ethic as my father: getting the job done right and done once,” he said. This guiding principle has become a foundation of Don’s work, stressing the importance of being safe, accurate, and responsible.

At Ledwell, Don Fox is more than a great employee; he embodies our values. Through his dedication to excellence, passion for his craft, and devotion to his family, Don exemplifies the qualities that make our company thrive. We are truly honored to have Don as part of our team.

Ledwell Employee Spotlight August 2023
Ledwell Team
In In The News, Misc, Service

How to Pair a Wireless Remote to a Receiver: Step-by-Step Guide

Learn how to pair a wireless remote to a receiver effortlessly with Ledwell step-by-step guide.

Wireless remotes are convenient for operating equipment from a distance without cumbersome cords or cables. Here, we will guide you on how to pair a wireless remote with a receiver.

Before we begin, it’s important to note that no other remotes should be operated in the vicinity during the dedication process, as it can cause issues with the pairing. Additionally, the receivers can store two unique ID codes, allowing the use of two different wireless remotes.

 

Let’s get started with the following steps:

 

Step 1: Power up the receiver

To begin the pairing process, ensure the receiver mounted to the equipment is powered up and ready to receive signals.

 

Step 2: Locate the setup button

Next, find the green ‘SETUP’ button on the bottom of the receiver. The button should be easily identifiable and marked as ‘SETUP.’

 

Step 3: Press the setup button five times

Press the ‘SETUP’ button quickly, five times. The blue ‘POWER/ACTIVITY’ light will blink five times to confirm the correct process.

 

Step 4: Press the setup button once

Then, press the ‘SETUP’ button one more time. The ‘POWER/ACTIVITY’ light will blink once, indicating that the receiver is ready to receive a signal from the remote.

 

Step 5: Press any button on the remote

Press any button on the wireless remote that will be used with this receiver for at least two seconds. The ‘POWER/ ACTIVITY’ light on the receiver will blink approximately six times, indicating that the code has been learned. If the remote has an ON/OFF button, use the ON button in this step.

 

Step 6: Dedication process for second remote (optional)

If a second handheld remote requires dedication, proceed to step 7. If not, the dedication process is complete. 

 

Step 7: Press the setup button five times again

Press the ‘SETUP’ button on the receiver five times quickly. The blue ‘POWER/ACTIVITY’ light will blink five times to confirm the correct entry.

 

Step 8: Press the setup button twice

Next, press the ‘SETUP’ button two more times. The ‘POWER/ ACTIVITY’ light will blink twice, indicating that the receiver is ready to receive a signal from the second wireless remote.

 

Step 9: Press any button on the second remote

Press any button on the second handheld remote that will be used with this receiver for at least two (2) seconds. The ‘POWER/ ACTIVITY’ light on the receiver will blink approximately six times, indicating that the code has been learned. 

 

And that’s it! The dedication process is complete, and the wireless remote should be paired with the receiver. Repeat the above steps if you need to pair another remote. If you encounter any issues with pairing, review our frequently asked questions or contact Ledwell for assistance.

Ledwell Team
In In The News, Industry

Paving the Road to Driving for a Living: When Do You Need a CDL

When a CDL is required to operate equipment

The United States economy depends on truckers to do more than just get from Point A to Point B in a safe manner. Truckers are essential to anything from keeping grocery store shelves stocked to completing construction and infrastructure projects. Because trucks are everywhere, so are employment opportunities. The only requirement is a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL).

Drivers can obtain three basic classifications. What additional endorsements you may need depends on what items are being transported. These endorsements are subject to additional testing. The more specialized, the more money a driver could potentially earn.

Drive a Ledwell Hydraulic Tail Truck with a Class B CDL

The Texas Department of Public Safety defines the CDL types as:

Class A 

A Class A CDL enables the holder to operate a combination of vehicles with a gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided that the weight rating of the towed vehicles is more than 10,000 pounds. This type of license is mandatory for driving heavy-duty equipment such as single-axle dump trucks with attached trailers, heavy-duty tractors with hydraulic tail trailers, and bulk feed trailers.

 

Class B 

A Class B CDL allows the holder to operate a single vehicle weighing 26,001 pounds or more or tow a vehicle not exceeding 10,000 pounds GVWR. Additionally, it permits the operation of any vehicle intended for the transportation of 24 or more passengers, including the driver. However, if the skills test is completed in a bus weighing less than 26,001 pounds GVWR, the license holder will be restricted to operating buses under that weight. This license type is necessary for operating medium and heavy-duty trucks, such as water trucks, rollbacks, and hydraulic tail trucks.

 

Class C

A Class C CDL authorizes the holder to operate a single vehicle or combination of vehicles that do not fall under the Class A or B category. This license permits the operation of vehicles designed to transport 16 to 23 passengers, including the driver or vehicles used for transporting hazardous materials that require the vehicle to be placarded. Placard equipment, such as vacuum trucks, would require a Class C CDL. Endorsements may be necessary for transporting hazardous materials.

A Commercial Driver License Permit (CLP) must be obtained and activated for at least 14 days before taking CDL skills exams.  CLPs are required of drivers applying for CDLs for the first time, upgrading their CDLs to another class, or adding passenger/school bus endorsements to their CDLs.

A driver must attend an approved Entry Level Driver Training (ELDT) program to complete the initial CDL requirements.  Programs under the Texas Workforce Commission (TWC) meet the required Commercial Truck Driving training guidelines.  TWC has a complete list of programs available, tuition costs, and class of vehicle covered.

While CDL grants and tuition assistance programs are available to cover training expenses, many trucking companies provide tuition reimbursement for a Class A CDL.  Therefore, having a CDL more than pays for itself; it is an investment in a career that could go anywhere.

Ledwell Team
In Newsletters

Summer 2023

Ledwell newsletter- Nuts & Bolts
Ledwell Summer newsletter- Nuts & Bolts

Nuts & Bolts: The Ultimate Solution for Portable Hydraulic Power

 

The Ledwell Self-Contained Unit is the perfect solution to provide portable hydraulic power. Thanks to its powerful engine-driven pump, this innovative unit allows you to operate any Ledwell Trailer with any tractor.

Read more

Self contained unit manufactured in house by Ledwell
Ledwell hosts signing day

Fostering a Community of Growth

 

Ledwell takes great pride in its commitment to growth and community development. To showcase this dedication, our Education Outreach Team organized a signing day that served as a platform to welcome talented individuals who will join Ledwell this summer.

 

Read more

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - Jeff Harlow

Featured Employee: Jeff Harlow

 

When you reach out to Ledwell, chances are Jeff will be the friendly voice on the other end of the line or the smiling face greeting you when you visit in person.

 

Read more

Ledwell celebrates additional 66,000 square feet of manufacturing space
Ledwell celebrates additional manufacturing space
Ledwell celebrates additional manufacturing space in 2023
Ledwell Celebrates new manufacturing space with ribbon cutting

Ledwell Celebrates Manufacturing Space Expansion

 

With this significant expansion, Ledwell aims to add new jobs and increase efficiencies by focusing on technological refinements to its production line and engineering. Ledwell hosted a ribbon-cutting event on Thursday, May 18th, 2023, to celebrate this momentous occasion.

Read more

Lube Buddy Jr manufactured by Ledwell
“

Ledwell East goes the extra mile! I’m very grateful for the service they deliver to assist their customers.

Chuck BrittBritt’s Contract Services LLC
“

Sure is nice to have center tie-downs on our trailer! I can fit 13 welders where before maybe eight or nine.

DriverNational Rental Company
“

This type of service and hospitality is rarely seen; it is obvious Ledwell values each customer and takes pride in their products.”

Arnie TognozziTognozzi Debris
“

My hats off to your service department for getting our trailer repaired and back on the road in record time. Your shop guys and gals are rockstars!”

Brett ThomasMajestic Milling

 

Stay in the know with the Ledwell Newsletter.

Don’t miss out on the latest innovations and happenings. Stay in the loop with the Ledwell newsletter.

Send me the Nuts & Bolts
Ledwell Team
In Featured Products, In The News, Industry

Ultimate Solution for Portable Hydraulic Power

Portable hydraulic power unit

The Ledwell Self-Contained Unit is the perfect solution to provide portable hydraulic power.

Thanks to its powerful engine-driven pump, this innovative unit allows you to operate any Ledwell Trailer with any tractor.

Self-Contained Units reduce downtime by providing enough power to fully operate any HydraTail Trailer, even when a tractor with a wet kit is unavailable. Its portable and compact design allows the unit to fit on the top deck of any trailer with the help of a forklift to put it in place.

Power units include a pressure and return hose to make the connection seamless. It offers the flexibility to use any tractor to move your trailers without worrying about hydraulic connections.

This unit includes a compact, high-quality 18-horsepower engine with an electric start that provides reliable power to the hydraulic system.

Its impressive 15 GPM hydraulic pump ensures you can fully operate any Ledwell HydraTail Trailer, from the winch to the hydraulic tail, without needing a tractor’s PTO.

Ledwell’s Self-Contained Unit is a game-changer for those that rely on trailers to deliver equipment daily.

With this pony motor, you no longer need to worry about matching certain tractors and trailers. Its design makes it a convenient and efficient portable hydraulic power solution that moves you forward.

Self contained unit manufactured in house by Ledwell
Portable power solution - Self Contained Unit for sale by Ledwell
Pony motor unit
Ledwell Team
In In The News, Industry, Innovation

Fostering a Community of Growth

Ledwell hosts signing day

Ledwell takes great pride in its commitment to growth and community development. To showcase this dedication, our Education Outreach Team organized a signing day that served as a platform to welcome talented individuals who will join Ledwell this summer.

Signing Day was a special event celebrating the achievements of high school graduates pursuing a manufacturing career.

Ledwell hosts signing day for local high school students
Ledwell attends Pleasant Grove signing day

Deoriq Dixon, Xavier Nash from Atlanta High School, John Calvin, and Perry Hack from Pleasant Grove High School were among those we welcomed into the Ledwell family. These talented individuals have shown exceptional promise and dedication, making them stand out in their pursuit of a career in the industry.

The company’s innovative approach to recognizing high school graduates entering the manufacturing workforce serves as an inspiration to the next generation. The achievements of these four individuals demonstrate that success is attainable through alternative educational pathways.

The hope is that this event sends a powerful message to young individuals that they can build a fulfilling and prosperous career in manufacturing, utilizing their unique talents and skills.

Ledwell welcomes these new employees with open arms, ready to support and empower them on their journey to success.

Atlanta Texas High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
Atlanta High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
PG High School Senior at Ledwell Signing Day
Ledwell Team
In In The News, Industry, Innovation

Ledwell Celebrates Manufacturing Space Expansion

Ledwell Celebrates new manufacturing space with ribbon cutting

Ledwell recently announced the expansion of its manufacturing space with the addition of 66,000 square feet to supplement the existing twelve acres of space under roof.

With this significant expansion, Ledwell aims to add new jobs and increase efficiencies by focusing on technological refinements to its production line and engineering.

Ledwell Celebrates new manufacturing space with ribbon cutting
Ledwell celebrates additional 66,000 square feet of manufacturing space
Ledwell celebrates additional manufacturing space
Ledwell celebrates additional manufacturing space in 2023

Ledwell hosted a ribbon-cutting event on Thursday, May 18th, 2023, to celebrate. The Ledwell workforce in Texas and members of the community attended the event. The celebration was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Ledwell team.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by Lesley Ledwell, President, who expressed her gratitude to everyone who has supported the company over the years. “We would not be where we are today without the support of our customers, employees, and community.”

Ledwell is known for meeting customer challenges with innovative solutions. This time, the solution is a brand-new manufacturing facility with endless possibilities. The new facility will offer the flexibility to fabricate and enhance its diverse product offering.

Ledwell add more manufacturing space in 2023
Aerial view of Ledwell's newest manufacturing shop
Lesley Ledwell speaking at ribbon cutting celebrating new manufacturing space at Ledwell
Ledwell ribbon cutting
Ledwell Team
In Employee Spotlight

Jeff Harlow

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - Jeff Harlow
Ledwell Employee Spotlight

Meet Jeff Harlow, a dedicated member of the Ledwell team since 2016. Jeff plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth operations for Ledwell’s logistics department.

When you reach out to Ledwell, chances are Jeff will be the friendly voice on the other end of the line or the smiling face greeting you when you visit in person.

Jeff’s strong work ethic can be traced back to his upbringing. From a young age, his father instilled in him the value of doing his best in everything he undertakes. “No matter what you do, do it right,” his father would say. This principle has guided Jeff throughout his career, and he consistently strives for excellence in his work.

For Jeff, success is synonymous with happiness. He believes true success is achieved when you find joy in what you do. This belief has driven him to pursue a career that aligns with his passions and interests, making his contributions to Ledwell all the more meaningful.

When he’s not at work, Jeff indulges in his hobbies and finds solace in the great outdoors. Golfing at local courses and kayaking near Broken Bow are two activities he thoroughly enjoys, allowing him to unwind and recharge. 

Jeff’s commitment to making a positive impact extends beyond his professional and personal life. He dedicates his time to volunteer work, supporting organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Alliance Tri-State and the Texarkana Children Charities Open. Through his involvement, Jeff strives to make a difference in the lives of others and give back to the community.

Ledwell is privileged to have Jeff Harlow as a valuable team member. His dedication, positive attitude, and customer-centric approach make him an invaluable asset to the company. Whether he’s assisting customers, pursuing his passions, or giving back, Jeff exemplifies the spirit of Ledwell and embodies the values that drive its success.

Ledwell Employee Spotlight - Jeff Harlow
Ledwell Team
In Employee Spotlight

Hugo Olvera

Hugo Olvera - Ledwell Employee Spotlight
Hugo Olvera - Ledwell Employee Spotlight

Meet Hugo Olvera, a valuable member of the Ledwell team who has been working as a welder in the Trailer Shop for the past 16 years.

He has spent his entire career in the Trailer Shop and has gained significant experience and expertise in manufacturing and repairing trailers.

Hugo takes great pride in his work and always looks for the most efficient way to fix a repair trailer. He knows that time is of the essence and that every minute counts. He is also known for his positive attitude and willingness to help whenever needed.

The most challenging part of Hugo’s job is his unwavering belief that everything has a solution. This mindset requires him to think creatively and outside the box to come up with unique solutions to complex problems.

One thing that helps Hugo stay focused and motivated at work is listening to music. He believes that it helps him remain calm and relaxed, which in turn allows him to perform at his best.

Hugo enjoys spending time with his children when he is not at work. He is a family man, and his children are his biggest motivation. They encourage him to keep going and never to give up, no matter how difficult the task may seem.

Growing up, Hugo wanted to be a professional soccer player, but he found his true calling in welding. His passion for his work is evident in everything he does, and he takes great pride in being part of the Ledwell team. His dedication, hard work, and positive attitude inspire us all, and we are proud to have him on our team.

Ledwell Team
In In The News, Industry, Innovation

Putting the Woman in Manufacturing

Girl Power to the Max Competition Winners

What comes to mind at the mention of women in manufacturing?

Rosie the Riveter, perhaps?  Our minds revert to a throwback from the early 1940s.  The only reason we have that icon is because men were off to war and someone—women—had to do the job.  Once the necessity was over, the Rosies went back to non-manufacturing duties.  Subsequent potential Rosies were prohibited or, at the very least, discouraged from taking technical and skilled trade classes. 

Today, a smaller percentage of women are choosing to be Rosies than the originals, despite the evolution of STEM and manufacturing.  Fortunately, an initiative is growing to put more girls in contact with manufacturing equipment.

Girl Power to the Max Competition Judges
Girl Power to the Max Competition
Girl Power to the Max Competition Organizers

In partnership with three regional Arkansas education cooperatives, Ledwell kicked off Women’s History Month by hosting a manufacturing competition for high-school girls.  The “Girl Power to the Max” event, held on March 1, showcased the entries of 21 finalists.  Similar to applying for a job, the finalists were judged on creativity, construction design, technical skill, and interview responses.

The winners, including Kinlee Stivers, Mallory Abercrombie, and Emily Lewis, received trophies from Boss Laser, cash awards, and $500 tuition waivers from the University of Arkansas Hope-Texarkana.

Girls from De Queen-Mena, South Central, and Southwest Arkansas Education Cooperatives created projects, ranging from decorative to functional, using CNC cutting and lasering with an emphasis on welding and power structural systems.  CNC, or computer numerical control, involves using specific computer-programming language to control the movement of factory machinery. 

Essentially, it is modernized manufacturing and applicable STEM.

The goal of the competition is to increase the number of females seeking and qualifying for high-paying, high-demand, and highly skilled innovative construction/manufacturing occupations.   Forty girls participated in last year’s competition, but that number increased to 125 this year. 

Not only did more students enter the contest, more girls surveyed after the event answered that they would be interested in working toward a future in STEM or manufacturing.  This is a big win for the competition!

Another win for the program includes significant grants from the Arkansas Department of Education’s Division of Career and Technical Education that have been awarded to districts without the latest CNC and laser equipment.  Therefore, students will be learning to use machines that are being used in today’s manufacturing workforce. 

Girl Power to the Max Competition Winners

Technical teachers are also receiving professional development led by welding instructors to update their skills and knowledge.  Ledwell has offered to be in partnership in this endeavor.

With its educational outreach and in conjunction with “Girl Power to the Max” organizers, Ledwell plans to put more Rosies in the manufacturing workforce.  Rosie will no longer be an image from the past but a trailblazer of the future.

Girl Power to the Max Competition - First Place Cutting
Girl Power to the Max Competition - First Place Laser
Girl Power to the Max Competition - Class Favorite
Girl Power to the Max Competition - Ledwell Choice Winners
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