HAMLET — Local manufacuturer Ferro Fab added two new welders to its workforce who recently received their welding certificates from Richmond Community College.
Anthony Allred and Ronald Legrande, both of Hamlet, were able to attend RCC through a grant program called North Carolina Back-to-Work, which helps long-term unemployed or underemployed individuals receive skills training in order to pursue new careers. The grant covers tuition and supplies for individuals who qualify.
Submitted photo
From left, Ferro Fab welder Anthony Allred, RCC Director of Customized Training Lee Eller, Ferro Fab Plant Manager Malcolm McLester and Ferro Fab welder Ronald Legrande stand with a giant spool built by welders at the Hamlet based industry.
“Getting this job has been excellent help to me and my family,” said Allred, who had been doing landscaping jobs and producing music to make money while he was without a steady job.
Allred, who has a daughter in college at Fayetteville State University, said welding is challenging, but he picked up on the new skill rather quickly.
Legrande, who has four sons, was laid off from his construction job nearly two years ago.
“This is a good company to work for, and now I have something to do other than run around and look for a job because I finally have a job again,” Legrande said.
Ferro Fab, located in Hamlet, is a manufacturer of specialized metal components.
“This program has definitely helped us find good candidates to hire,” said Malcolm McLester, Ferro Fab plant manager. “While we like to hire people who have work experience, this is a good starting point for these guys. We get them in here and get them exposed to the work and integrated into the business. We like to promote within, so there are opportunities to advance up the ladder.”
The North Carolina Back-to-Work program is a state-funded grant that provides participants job training and retraining in technical fields through the North Carolina Community College System.
“I applaud RCC’s Workforce and Economic Development division for connecting local employers with our graduates who have gained valuable skills and are looking for a career change,” Dr. Dale McInnis, RCC president, said. “This is another example of how RCC helps businesses and industries in Richmond and Scotland County grow their workforce.”
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