A Real-World Look at Manufacturing Careers

Throughout the day, students toured Mellott’s facilities, gaining exposure to multiple departments including:

• Manufacturing and fabrication
• Equipment service and maintenance
• Engineering and design
• Sales and operations

Mellott team members shared their career paths and day-to-day responsibilities, helping students better understand the variety of roles available in the aggregate and construction industries.

Inside the Mellott Facility: A Guided Tour Experience

Students participated in a comprehensive facility tour where they were able to see each area of Mellott’s operations up close. As they moved through the shop, offices, and workspaces, they interacted directly with Mellott team members who explained their roles, daily responsibilities, and the processes that keep the company running.

This experience gave students a clearer understanding of how different departments work together and allowed them to ask questions in real time—making the visit both engaging and informative.

Mock Interviews Provide Real-World Experience

Students also participated in mock as part of the visit. Prior to the event, they submitted job applications and resumes, then sat down with Mellott team members for one-on-one interviews.

For many students, this was their first interview experience. The exercise provided a practical, low-pressure environment to build confidence, practice communication skills, and receive valuable feedback.

By simulating real hiring scenarios, students were able to strengthen interviewing skills they can carry with them into future job opportunities, internships, and career paths.

Building the Future Workforce

The event also reinforced Mellott’s core values of safety, integrity, commitment, respect, and excellence. Throughout the day, students saw firsthand how these principles guide daily operations—from prioritizing safe work practices to fostering a culture of accountability and teamwork.

By connecting these values to real-world experiences, students gained a better understanding of what it takes to succeed in a professional environment. Mellott remains committed to investing in workforce development and creating awareness around high-demand careers in manufacturing and the trades, while shaping future professionals who embody these same values.

Strengthening Community Partnerships

Mellott’s partnership with reflects an ongoing commitment to community engagement and education. Events like this help students make informed decisions about their future—whether that includes college, trade school, or entering the workforce directly.

As the Class of 2026 prepares for graduation, Mellott is proud to support the next generation of skilled professionals and looks forward to continuing these impactful experiences.

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This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals, businesses, and organizations that enrich children, adults, and the community through education. Unlike traditional teaching awards, the Chamber’s Excellence in Education Award shines a light on efforts that go beyond the classroom, supporting workforce development, career exploration, creative arts, and other innovative educational endeavors.

For ������ý, this award is a testament to our commitment to providing meaningful, impactful learning opportunities that strengthen our workforce and support the broader community.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, the engagement of our departments, and the company’s vision for ongoing growth and development,” said Les Morris, who leads Mellott’s training efforts along with Dave Coleman.

Kellie Goodman Shaffer, President and CEO of the Bedford County Chamber of Commerce, also shared her congratulations:

“Congratulations again and thank you so much for participating in our awards program – it is one of the joys of our job to celebrate and honor the best of our community, including you!”

������ý continues to build programs that help employees, customers, and industry partners develop skills and knowledge that drive success. From leadership development to hands-on technical training, our initiatives are designed to equip people with tools for today and opportunities for tomorrow.

We thank the Bedford County Chamber Foundation for this honor, and we extend our appreciation to the Mellott team and our training participants whose engagement makes achievements like this possible.

Watch the video below:  

Interested in learning more about our ������ý Program? Click HERE.

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How the Program Works

Through ������ý’s partnership with Blue Ridge CTC, students are able to build upon the training they complete in our nine-month program. ������ý covers critical industry topics such as:
• Safety
• Mechanics
• Hydraulics
• Welding
• Electrical systems

Each student’s training—whether classroom, lab, or on-the-job—is carefully recorded and mapped to ensure it can be credited toward their degree.  After completing ������ý, students then enroll in five additional online courses through Blue Ridge CTC. These courses are designed specifically around the needs of our industry and include:
• Technical Mathematics
• Fitness and Wellness
• Building Better Relationships
• Applied Technical Writing
• Positive Workplace Communications

Upon successful completion, graduates are awarded an Associate of Applied Science in Technical Studies: Industrial Technician.

A Streamlined Path for Future Students

Our first class of graduates pioneered the program over a 14-month period, balancing coursework alongside their work and personal responsibilities. Thanks to their efforts, Mellott has been able to streamline the degree process from four semesters down to three.

This change creates a recurring cycle where future ������ý graduates can enter directly into the Blue Ridge program and complete their associate degree at the same time as their ������ý graduation. Even better, Mellott has established a contracted rate so that students have no out of pocket costs.

As Dave put it: “Where else can you go to get paid to achieve a degree?”

Leading by Example

Dave reflected on his experience with humor, saying he sometimes felt like Rodney Dangerfield in “Back to School” alongside his younger counterparts, Cody and Gunner. But his perspective is clear: “It is never too late for anyone. I am a strong believer in leading by example. For if we stop learning, it is only by choice.”

This first graduating class has demonstrated not only the value of hard work but also the importance of continued growth. Their choices, perseverance, and achievements are shaping their futures and setting a strong foundation for others to follow.

A Special Thank You

We extend our sincere thanks to Cynthia Hull and Lisa Osborn from Blue Ridge CTC for their partnership in making this program possible. Together, we are building a pathway that benefits our employees, our company, and our industry.

Congratulations again to Dave, Cody, and Gunner. we couldn’t be prouder of your accomplishments, and we can’t wait to see where this journey takes the next class of ������ý graduates!  Learn more about our ������ý program HERE!

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