Ledwell employees have come together to create a unique and inspiring shirt design, showcasing their creativity and teamwork. The design features a clever play on words based on a comment, “We need to ramp it up.”
Often heard in the Ramp Shop, this phrase has since become a motivating statement for Ledwell, encouraging employees to strive for excellence and maintain the high standards the company is known for.
In 2023, Ledwell began a program to strengthen the company’s next generation of leaders. The Skill Enhancement & Employee Development Program, also known as the SEED Program, is an initiative providing insights and connections among participants.
The SEED Program centers on equipping employees with an understanding of Ledwell’s products and processes, ensuring the continuation of the legacy established in 1946 by Buddy Ledwell and his father.
More than just a learning opportunity, the program fosters a bond among participants, creating an environment where individuals and departments consult easily.
Sessions are held every other week to discuss various shops and departments. Some sessions, like those in the Machine Shop and Engineering, provide participants with eye-opening experiences. Several graduates enjoyed learning the ins and outs of the Machine Shop process, emphasizing how it unveils the journey of parts through various stages.
Others highlighted the importance of understanding the intricacies of engineering, enabling participants to make informed decisions that uphold Ledwell’s commitment to quality.
The SEED Program’s impact extends beyond the sessions, as graduates bring newfound knowledge back to their roles, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting cross-departmental collaboration. It also reinforces Ledwell’s commitment to continuous improvement and the development of a closely knit family within its workforce.
In today’s world, where road safety is a high priority, innovative solutions continually evolve to protect construction site workers and the drivers who share the road.
Among these solutions, Truck Mounted Attenuators (TMAs) have become essential for safeguarding lives during roadwork and maintenance activities.
Ledwell understands that one size does not fit all when it comes to equipment. Known for working closely with customers to build and customize equipment to keep business rolling – TMAs are no different.
Also called Crash Trucks, these units are tailored to meet specific requirements for customers and abide by state laws. They meet the highest safety standards, being MASH certified for optimal protection during collisions on the road or on-site.
These TMAs have many features to enhance operational efficiency, including a cone seat with a safety gate, a work light package, and a full-function wireless remote. Even the most minor details matter. Ledwell customized crash trucks feature yellow removable stake sides, non-slip protective surface coating on the bed, and an arrow board – all crucial in improving equipment visibility.
For a more custom solution, various options, such as a 25-light arrow board, ballast box, solar charging kit, and multi-view camera system, are available to meet specific operational needs.
Ledwell understands there’s no room for compromise when you prioritize road safety. Our customized crash trucks are the perfect solution for your operations.
If you’re looking to improve your performance, contact our experts today and learn more about how we can help you achieve your goals.
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.
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 Day creates awareness about the manufacturing sector’s importance to the economy, job creation, and technological advancements.
It helps change the outdated perception of manufacturing careers by showcasing modern facilities, cutting-edge technology, and diverse job roles.
It inspires young students to consider careers in manufacturing by exposing them to real-life success stories and role models.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
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.
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.
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.
