Meet Rhonda Purcell, a dedicated Fitting Foreman who's been making a mark on Project Kansas for Hermanson.

Originally from Dallas, Texas, Rhonda was introduced to welding by her mother's husband and joined the union in 2014. With 11 years of experience, she brings a wealth of knowledge to everything she does.

Having been with Hermanson for nearly 1.5 years, Rhonda has found a place to grow and mentor others. 

"I really enjoy helping the apprentices," she says. "I learn from the older guys and enjoy teaching the younger crew members, too." Rhonda thrives on the balance of learning and sharing knowledge, something she finds particularly rewarding.

Rhonda is currently focused on pipefitting for Project Kansas, the Panasonic Energy North America electric vehicle battery facility in De Soto, Kansas. This 300-acre manufacturing site, which will be the largest of its kind in Kansas, is a key part of the state's largest economic development project.

"I've been on the process piping. I like that I haven't moved around and am getting to see everything from start to finish," she says, reflecting on her role. She enjoys the detailed work, noting, "We fit all the pipes, and a lot of detailing goes into it, including bending tubes." 

At Hermanson, she values the family-like culture. Rhonda says, "It's nice to work in an environment where you can joke around and be yourself."

Rhonda's advice to others in the industry? "Always have patience. Everyone is human, so there's always a learning curve." She emphasizes that understanding this is essential in a field where experience and skill grow over time.

Outside of work, Rhonda enjoys hiking and spending quality time with her partner, her children and grandchildren.

At Hermanson, we’re proud to have Rhonda on our team, an experienced and dedicated foreman whose leadership and commitment to excellence elevate our work.