Drake Morgan

Ledwell Buddy Award winner 2026 - Drake Morgan

Since 2021, Drake Morgan has played an essential role on the Pattern Torch night shift. As Night Shift Supervisor, he keeps production moving while most of the world sleeps, ensuring every part is cut accurately and ready for the next step by sunrise.

Drake takes pride in how he tackles challenges. When something goes wrong, he does not get discouraged. He leans in, finds the issue, and gets things back on track. His problem solving skills set the tone for his team and show the kind of leadership they can count on.

Many people assume the Pattern Torch crew only moves material on and off the table, but Drake knows the job is far more technical. “You see us taking material on and off the table, but what you do not always see is the machine programming and technical side that tells the torch how to cut the parts,” he explains. His work requires focus, precision, and a strong understanding of the equipment.

During his time at Ledwell, Drake has learned that hard work truly pays off. The value he connects with most is Grit. As he puts it, “No matter how hard the work is, I get it done.” That attitude defines how he approaches every shift, every challenge, and every responsibility.

Drake’s foreman, Tim Snider, sees that effort daily. “He does what I ask and more. Drake steps up to do what needs to be done,” Tim says. Drake stands out because he shows up fully, follows through, and helps wherever he is needed.

Outside of work, Drake keeps busy on his homestead, where he raises goats and rabbits, and he enjoys hunting. His steady, hardworking nature carries through every part of his life.

To Drake, “Ledwell Made” means a quality product that lasts forever. He takes pride in knowing that the parts he cuts help create equipment customers rely on for the long haul.

Thank you, Drake, for your hard work, grit, and commitment. We appreciate everything you bring to the team.

Ledwell Buddy Award winner - Drake Morgan
Ledwell Buddy Award winner 2026 - Drake Morgan

Jacob Tetlow

Jacob Tetlow has been part of Ledwell for nine years, working in the Parts Sales Department at our Fayetteville, North Carolina, location. His day-to-day can look different, but it usually includes fulfilling part orders, managing inventory, and determining the parts required for service jobs. Jacob ensures customers get what they need quickly and accurately, living up to the Ledwell Made Guarantee.

One of Jacob’s favorite parts of his job is engaging with customers. He enjoys building relationships and helping solve problems. Over the years, he has contributed to projects like building and refurbishing feed trailers. He is proud of his personal growth and being part of Ledwell’s expansion in North Carolina.

Jacob’s role is more versatile than most people realize. It involves welding, fabricating, customer service, inventory management, sales, traveling, and computer work. That variety keeps things interesting and shows the depth of skills needed to deliver on Ledwell’s promise of quality and grit.

When it comes to Ledwell’s values—Quality, Grit, Legacy, and Family—Jacob connects most with Family.

“It’s what’s most motivating,” he says. For Jacob, Ledwell isn’t just a company; it’s family. That is why the phrase “Ledwell Made” means “Family Made” to him.

He shows up every day for one reason: his wife of 22 years and three amazing daughters. They inspire him to give his best, and that dedication shines through in everything he does.

Thank you, Jacob, for your hard work, versatility, and commitment to our customers and team. We’re proud to have you as part of the Ledwell family.

Luis Rojas

We believe in celebrating the grit and grind that keeps this place moving. Today, we’re putting the spotlight on Luis Rojas, a dedicated member of our team since 2011.

Luis works in the Paint Department, where he’s been making our equipment look sharp and job-site ready for over a decade. From day one, he’s brought precision and care to everything that comes through his bay. He takes pride in painting all types of equipment that roll through the shop.

His favorite? Trailers. Luis enjoys putting the final touch on these hardworking machines. You can see his attention to detail and pride in the way each one shines when it leaves the shop.

When asked about the toughest part of the job, Luis doesn’t hesitate—taping. It’s slow, detailed work that takes a steady hand and a lot of patience. But Luis knows the difference it makes. He takes the time to do it right because quality matters.

Outside of work, Luis spends time with his wife, Betty, and their three sons. As a family, they love going on bike rides and spending time outdoors. It’s a good way to unwind and enjoy time together.

Before coming to Ledwell, Luis worked as a valet driver. He enjoyed the chance to drive all kinds of vehicles and says that job helped sharpen his focus and work ethic. Skills that still serve him well on the job.

Over the years, he’s learned one lesson that sticks with him: “To get something good, you’ve got to put in 100%.”

It’s a mindset he carries every day, whether he’s at work or at home. His family inspires him to lead by example and give his best, no matter the task.

Luis Rojas is more than a painter. He’s a key part of the Ledwell family. His dedication, skill, and pride in his craft help set the standard for what Ledwell Made really means. We’re proud to have him on our team and grateful for everything he brings to the job. Thank you, Luis.

Dylan Smith

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

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.

John Berbig

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.

Kyle Hillis

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.

John Williams

Employee Spotlight - John Williams

Since 2005, John Williams has been a key part of the Ledwell team. He came in ready to take on tough jobs, and from day one, he’s been our go-to for electrical maintenance. His work keeps us moving and speaks volumes about his dedication to doing things right.

Installing cranes is one of John’s favorite tasks. He’s wired and programmed nearly 40 of them over the years, each one built to make life easier and safer for our team. You can see the pride in his craftsmanship every time a crane fires up without a hitch.

John’s work comes with challenges, especially when electrical problems pop up without warning. But he doesn’t back down. His ability to troubleshoot fast and get equipment back online shows just how much he values quality, reliability, and keeping the job on track.

John Williams - Ledwell Employee Spotlight

Before Ledwell, John spent ten years in the Navy, serving our country with the same discipline and purpose he brings to his role today. That experience shaped his sharp attention to detail and his steady, no-nonsense approach.

When he’s off the clock, John enjoys a quieter kind of precision, caring for his aquariums. He keeps angel fish and tiger barbs, along with coral he collected while stationed near the Indian Sea. It’s a passion that reflects his deep respect for life and balance.

At the core of everything John does is his faith. “Knowing someone is there to carry the weight of the world for you is so inspiring,” he says. It’s that belief that helps him stay grounded and focused, no matter what comes his way.

John Williams isn’t just a skilled electrician; he’s a steady hand, a quiet leader, and a living example of what it means to be Ledwell Made. We’re proud to have him on the team and even prouder of the legacy he continues to build every day.

Devonta Britt

For the past seven years, Devonta Britt has been part of Ledwell’s Paint Department, specifically in the Blasting Bay. After earning a degree from the University of Arkansas Cossatot, Devonta brought his skills and strong work ethic to Texarkana, where he has been blasting away parts, truck bodies, and trailers ever since.

He blasts each piece with coarse material, prepping it for the next stage in the paint process. It’s tough, dirty work, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

“It’s a lot of work,” he says, “but it’s pretty laid back once you get past that.” That attitude says it all: head down, job done, no complaints. Devonta embodies what it means to be Ledwell Made; reliable, focused, and proud of what he does.

He takes pride in his work and values the people around him. “I love what I do most, and the people too,” he says. Devonta lives by a principle that mirrors Ledwell’s foundation: take care of your people, and they’ll take care of you.

“He’s dependable, hard-working, and is committed to getting the job done correctly and in a timely manner,” says his foreman.

Outside of work, Devonta enjoys time with his wife Karley, his partner of ten years, and spoiling his nieces and nephews. When he’s not spending time with family, he’s channeling his creativity into making music, particularly in the rap genre.

Devonta’s grit, loyalty, and heart make him a true representation of the Ledwell spirit.

Kevin Jones

Kevin Jones has been part of the Ledwell team since 2011, showing up every day ready to work—and ready to support the team around him. He got his start in Shipping and Receiving, learning the ropes and building his reputation for being dependable and driven.

After some time there, Kevin moved into the Kit Bay, where he built kits for the Truck Shop and installed tarps and boards on Dump Trucks. “It’s a lot of running back and forth, taking care of the guys to make sure they have everything they need,” Kevin says. These days, he’s the go-to for Vacuum Truck kits.

But make no mistake. Kevin’s job is more than just putting parts in a basket. He’s double-checking part accuracy, placing orders to keep stock ready, and staying ahead of the curve so production keeps rolling without a hitch.

When asked what he enjoys most, Kevin doesn’t hesitate: “The relationships I’ve built over the years. We work just as hard for our families as we do for each other. It’s a great support system.”

One of Kevin’s most memorable moments on the job was when an old army truck rolled in with a metal dash, toggles, and levers. He installed the tarp and boards on the dump bed. “To see the true workmanship to build something and it last was incredible,” he recalls.

For Kevin, Ledwell Made means more than craftsmanship. It’s about grit, unity, and a shared commitment. “A group of people who show up every day, push through, and get the job done, together.”

Kevin’s just as proud of his life at home as he is at work. He’s been married to Tammy for 15 years and is a proud dad to four kids. When he’s not keeping kits running like clockwork, you’ll find him with his family or firing up the grill for a good BBQ.

Kevin Jones is the kind of teammate who represents the heart of Ledwell: humble, hardworking, and always ready to lend a hand.