Salisbury Shop strengthens community ties through workforce development

Martin Marietta’s Salisbury Shop is strengthening its workforce development efforts through partnerships with local educational institutions.

Since 2023, the shop’s team has participated in Rowan-Cabarrus Community College’s Industrial Maintenance Technician Apprenticeship program, which focuses on heavy equipment repair and offers participants key training. Three team members currently participate in the program: Mechanic Josh Baker, Associate Mechanic Jagger Kirk and Associate Mechanic Ethan Gullett.

The Continuing Education team at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College led trainings locally at the shop, including First Aid/CPR, Aerial Lift Operation, Presentation Skills and 5S Workplace Organization.

Salisbury Shop Senior Manager Austin Shrewsbury has played a key role in building the site’s relationship with Rowan-Cabarrus by serving on the community college’s Foundation Board and regularly speaking with students about industry career opportunities.

“Rowan-Cabarrus Community College has been an incredible resource for Martin Marietta. The Business Services team of David King, Kerry Motley, Lori Miller and Jonathan Ramm have helped us increase our talent level within the Salisbury Shop and have done so with an open ear. Throughout our journey, they have tailored their responses to meet our needs,” Shrewsbury said. “I look forward to strengthening our partnership in the coming years.”

One talent pipeline is the North Carolina Manufacturing Institute (NCMI), which emphasizes safety, quality assurance, manufacturing processes and maintenance awareness. Utility Person Andre Jordan, a standout NCMI graduate, joined the Salisbury Shop in July 2023 and now advocates for the program.

“Before Martin Marietta, I used to job hop and keep a résumé ready,” Jordan said. “Now, I’ve thrown my résumé away — I don’t need it anymore.”

The Martin Marietta–NCMI partnership was recently named a Top 5 Outstanding College/Corporate Partnership by the American Association of Community Colleges.