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Shining a Light on Manufacturing Day: Ledwell’s Commitment to Inspiring Future Innovators

Panel of manufacturing industry leaders in Texarkana

Every year, on the first Friday in October, Manufacturing Day is celebrated across the United States, reminding us of the vital role manufacturing plays in our economy and society. It’s a day to acknowledge the manufacturing industry’s significance and inspire the next generation of makers, creators, and innovators.

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce selected Ledwell to host a panel of local professionals from six manufacturing facilities for 60 students from four local high schools: Arkansas, Liberty-Eylau, Premiere, and Redwater. This event exemplifies the commitment of local businesses to invest in the future workforce and promote careers in manufacturing.

Panel of manufacturing industry leaders in Texarkana

The panel of local professionals represented the diverse careers available within manufacturing. Hailing from six different manufacturing facilities in Texarkana, they shared their journeys, challenges, and accomplishments, offering valuable insights to the eager young minds in attendance. From journeymen and foremen to human resources and owners, the panel embodied diverse opportunities in manufacturing.

The panel discussion was an informative experience for the attending students. They discovered diverse career paths, made real-world connections, and gained insight into the skills and qualifications needed for manufacturing careers.

Manufacturing Day is not just another date on the calendar. It’s a day to celebrate innovation, technology, and the people who drive the manufacturing industry forward.

As we look to the future, let’s continue to invest in our youth and nurture their passion for manufacturing, ensuring a bright and innovative future for this vital sector.

Manufacturing Plant tour at Ledwell
Manufacturing Tour with local students at Ledwell

Why Manufacturing Day is important:

Raising Awareness:

Manufacturing Day creates awareness about the manufacturing sector’s importance to the economy, job creation, and technological advancements.

 

Changing Perceptions:

It helps change the outdated perception of manufacturing careers by showcasing modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, and diverse job roles.

 

Inspiring the Youth:

It inspires young students to consider careers in manufacturing by exposing them to real-life success stories and role models.

Ledwell hosts Manufacturing Week student tour

Maximize Your Savings: Understanding Section 179

Maximize tax deductions with Section 179

Section 179 of the IRS tax code simplifies the process of encouraging businesses to invest in equipment and themselves.

To help explain its mechanics, benefits, limitations, and eligibility criteria, we’re sharing the top takeaways from the ever-changing tax deduction.

Previously, businesses depreciated qualifying equipment over time. For instance, a $50,000 machine might result in a $10,000 deduction annually for five years.

Now, Section 179 lets businesses deduct the entire purchase price of eligible commercial medium and heavy-duty equipment in the current tax year.

This deduction has significantly impacted companies and the economy. It allows businesses to invest in needed equipment immediately instead of waiting. Small businesses can write off up to $1,160,000 of qualifying equipment costs on their 2023 tax return.

Section 179 available on Ledwell Equipment

Section 179 has limits: $2,890,000 for equipment purchases and $1,160,000 for deductions. The deduction gradually diminishes after $2,890,000 is spent, disappearing entirely at $4,050,000 in purchases, making it ideal for small and medium-sized businesses.

To qualify for the deduction, any business purchasing, financing, or leasing new or used equipment in 2023, provided their spending remains below $4,050,000, and the equipment must be placed into service between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2023.

Bonus depreciation remains an option; however, it differs from Section 179 by being variable, standing at 80% for 2023. Large businesses exceeding the $2,890,000 spending cap benefit from Bonus Depreciation.

Equipment must be used for business purposes over 50% of the time to qualify for the Section 179 Deduction. Multiply the equipment cost by the business use percentage to calculate the eligible amount for Section 179.

To fully leverage this tax deduction and its benefits for your business, we highly recommend reviewing Section 179 at a Glance.

John Williams

Employee Spotlight - John Williams

Meet John Williams, an integral part of the Ledwell family since 2005. From day one, he took on the challenging role of handling electrical maintenance, demonstrating his commitment to the company’s success. 

John’s favorite projects at Ledwell involve installing cranes, a task he has accomplished approximately 40 times over the years.

He meticulously wires all the components together and programs them to operate seamlessly, making work more efficient for our employees. His passion for this work shines through in every crane he sets up.

At Ledwell, John’s role is not without its challenges. He faces intermittent opportunities that require his expertise to resolve swiftly and efficiently. His ability to tackle these issues head-on showcases his problem-solving skills and dedication to ensuring the smooth operation of our equipment.

John Williams - Ledwell Employee Spotlight

Before joining Ledwell, John spent a significant part of his life serving our nation.

He proudly served for ten years in the Navy, showcasing his determination and commitment to a higher purpose. His military background instilled discipline, precision, and a strong work ethic, qualities that have translated seamlessly into his role at Ledwell.

Outside of work, John’s passion for marine life takes center stage. He has several aquariums, including one housing elegant angel fish and another featuring vibrant tiger barbs. The most unique part of his aquariums is his collection of coral from the Indian Sea, collected while deployed in the area.

John draws inspiration from a higher power, relying on his faith to guide him through life’s challenges.

“ Knowing someone is there to carry the weight of the world for you is so inspiring,” he said.

John Williams is not just an employee but a dedicated team member who embodies Ledwell’s values. His journey from the Navy to our family at Ledwell showcases his dedication to a higher purpose and his determination to make a difference in everything he does. We are proud to have John as a part of our team, and we look forward to many more years of his exceptional contributions.

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

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 to pair a wireless remote, 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 to pair a wireless remote 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.

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.

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

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

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

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

 

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Send me the Nuts & Bolts

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 who 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.

Fostering a Community of Growth

Ledwell hosts signing day

Ledwell takes great pride in its commitment to the growth and development of the Texarkana community. 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 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
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