HANCEVILLE, Ala. – Wallace State Community College’s Randy Hammond has been named the 2026 Instructor of the Year for the NC3 Lincoln Electric program. Hammond was recognized on Wednesday, July 22, at the NC3 Leadership Conference in Kenosha, Wisconsin.
Hammond is a dedicated welding professional and educator serving as a welding instructor and department chair of the Welding program at Wallace State. As a Certified Welding Inspector (CWI) with 18 years of experience, he brings extensive industry knowledge and hands-on experience to the classroom. He uses his years in the welding industry to help prepare the next generation of skilled welders for successful careers in the trade.
“Randy Hammond’s recognition as the NC3 Lincoln Electric 2026 Instructor of the Year reflects his exceptional knowledge, dedication to his students and commitment to excellence in welding education,” said Jerry Murcks, dean of Applied Technologies. “Randy brings industry experience into the classroom in a way that helps students build confidence, master their craft and prepare for successful careers. We are incredibly proud of Randy and the positive impact he continues to make on our students, the Welding program and Wallace State.”
Known for his commitment to excellence and passion for teaching, Hammond takes pride in sharing both the technical and practical aspects of welding with his students. His expertise and mentorship have made a positive impact on many aspiring welders throughout his career.
“Randy was my instructor when I was a student in the welding program in 2015-2017. I had never welded before and wasn’t sure I would succeed,” said Welding Instructor Melanie Patterson. “Randy was patient and encouraging. He is extremely knowledgeable about all things welding. Now I work alongside Randy as a colleague. I see how the students deeply respect him. Not only does he have a vast knowledge of welding, but he is also excellent at explaining it in a way that students understand. The students have a nickname for Randy – The Wizard!”
Hammond said he first thought it was a joke when he was told he was being named the instructor of the year.
“I could not believe that I was selected over all the other welding instructors across America,” Hammond said. “I am extremely honored to win an award for doing what I love. Welding has provided me with a career that has brought me full circle in life. From being a welding student at Wallace State Community College to being the department chair. It was an amazing and rewarding ride. It is my goal now to share with students what I have learned in my career and to pass along wisdom to another generation of welders.”
Outside of work, Hammond enjoys hunting, gardening and spending quality time with his family. He has been married to his wife, Stacy, for 31 years and is the proud father of two daughters, Tess and Grace, and a son-in-law, Collin. His faith in God and family remains at the center of his life, and he values the time spent creating memories with those he loves most.
