Dreams Forged at LCC: Graduate Builds Business, Gives Back
By: Kayla Britt
When Joe Sanchez enrolled in Lenoir Community College's welding program, he was working two jobs and searching for a better future. Today, he owns a thriving metal fabrication company, supports a growing team of employees, and is giving back to the college that helped launch his career.
Originally from Mexico, Sanchez came to the United States nearly 27 years ago. His interest in welding began early, inspired by his father, who worked in the trade throughout his life. At age 25, Sanchez decided to pursue formal training in welding. Before enrolling at Lenoir Community College, he worked as a chef. A coworker told him about the College’s welding program and the opportunities it could lead to. That conversation ultimately encouraged him to pursue something bigger.
“Once I enrolled, I discovered they offered a wide variety of welding courses,” Sanchez said. “It was exactly what I needed.”
Looking back, Sanchez expresses gratitude for his time at LCC, crediting the program for giving him a strong foundation and access to numerous opportunities. He especially credits the instructors who made a lasting impact.
“They showed me so much about welding,” Sanchez said. “To me, they're the best teachers I’ve ever had. Even today, I stop by to let them know how grateful I am.”
Sanchez’s time as a student was not without challenges. Working two jobs while managing a demanding course load wasn't easy, but Sanchez never lost sight of his goal. Today, his advice to students is simple: "Don't give up. At first, it's going to be hard and different, but don't stop."
The welding program provided Sanchez with essential skills in metal preparation, fabrication techniques, and industry practices. After graduating, he joined Crown Equipment Corporation, where he spent five years gaining hands-on experience and saving money toward his long-term goal. At age 30, he launched S&S Metal Works.
Like many first-time business owners, Sanchez faced significant challenges in the beginning.
“Being a business owner requires sacrifice. Sometimes it feels like you don't have a life outside of work,” Sanchez said. “But this is my life, and this is what makes me happy. I love it.”
With the support of his family, S&S Metal Works grew from a one-person operation into a thriving business with multiple divisions and a dedicated team of employees. The company continues to expand, most recently adding an electrical department.
Sanchez credits the College with helping support his career dreams. “LCC gave me a strong foundation,” said Sanchez. “It provided the knowledge and skills I needed to build my future.”
That gratitude inspired Sanchez to establish an endowed scholarship for welding students at LCC.
"I realized that the more I help others, the more I receive," he said. "I want to see more people succeed."
Today, Sanchez continues to grow his business while creating more opportunities for others. Through the endowed scholarship and ongoing support of the College, he hopes more students will benefit from what LCC offers.
"I feel like Lenoir Community College gave me the wings I needed to chase my dreams," Sanchez said. "If you're a student at LCC, you already have a foot in the door. Always follow your dreams."
