From RCC Student to Manufacturing Leader
Sep 8, 2026Brannon Russell’s career path is proof that success is not always a straight line. A Rockingham County native and Rockingham Community College alumnus, Russell has built a career spanning nearly every corner of manufacturing before stepping into his current role as human resources manager at Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. Along the way, he discovered the value of hands-on learning, professional growth, and staying open to new opportunities.
Russell graduated from Rockingham County High School in 1990 with plans to pursue a traditional four-year college experience. He enrolled at NC State University intending to earn an engineering degree, but quickly realized that path was not the right fit for him. Looking for another option, he found his way to RCC, a decision that would shape the course of his career.
At RCC, Russell enrolled in the Manufacturing Systems Technology program and graduated in 1995. He was part of the program’s very first class when it launched in 1992, giving him the opportunity to learn emerging technologies in computer numerical control (CNC) machining. The program’s emphasis on hands-on instruction and real-world applications immediately appealed to him.
“It was very advanced technology at the time,” Russell said. “I really loved the CAD drawing and CNC programming.”
That practical training paid off. Russell began his career as the environmental health and safety manager, then moved along to operations manager, production manager, and in the last six months, became HR manager.
Today, he often jokes that if a job exists within a manufacturing facility, he has probably done it.
Finding the Right Fit
Looking back, Russell says RCC provided an educational environment that suited him better than a large university setting.
“When I started RCC, it was a totally different experience,” he said. “The classes were small, more focused, and it was easy to ask questions and get help.”
The college’s hands-on approach was especially valuable. Rather than learning solely from textbooks, students gained practical experience that mirrored workplace expectations.
“RCC gave you more of the hands-on, ready-to-go-to-work type stuff,” Russell said.
One lesson from early in his career has stayed with him for decades. Russell recalls a supervisor once saying he would rather hire one person with a two-year degree from RCC than four people with four-year degrees because he knew RCC graduates arrived prepared to contribute from day one.
Today, Russell shares similar advice with high school students, encouraging them to consider RCC, especially if they are still exploring career options. The college, he says, offers an affordable way to gain valuable skills, earn transferable credits, and discover career interests before making larger commitments.
Growing with Ruger
Russell joined Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. 13 years ago and has played a unique role in the company’s North Carolina story. In fact, he was the second employee hired for the Ruger operation in Mayodan.
“I’ve been here since before they even owned the building,” Russell said. “They hired the original HR manager first, and I was the second hire. I’m very proud of the fact of being here from day one.”
Since joining Ruger, he has served in a variety of leadership positions, and his broad experience across manufacturing gives him a unique perspective when working with employees.
“I’ve always wanted to continue my career and advance into different roles,” Russell said. “HR was kind of something I’d always wanted to do, and now here I am and am enjoying it.”
Supporting Workforce Development
As HR manager, Russell remains a strong advocate for workforce training and educational partnerships. He sees RCC as an important partner in developing the skilled workforce local industries need.
Russell notes that many Ruger employees have completed CNC machining, maintenance, technical, and other courses through RCC. He hopes to expand those opportunities through customized training and apprenticeship-style programs that allow employees to continue working while building new skills.
“We’d like to start a training program for new hires where they can get a lot of knowledge before they ever step foot onto the floor,” he said.
His vision includes creating pathways for employees interested in machine setup, maintenance, and advanced manufacturing careers, helping them gain both classroom knowledge and hands-on experience.
A Lasting Connection to RCC
More than 30 years after enrolling at RCC, Russell continues to champion the college’s impact on students and the region.
“If you want an education, RCC is a great place to start,” he said. “With the small classes, the hands-on training, and the attention that you get, it’s better than anywhere else. And for the cost associated with it, you can’t beat it.”
For Russell, RCC was more than a place to earn a degree. It was the launching point for a career built on adaptability, lifelong learning, and leadership. From the first Manufacturing Systems Technology class to leading human resources for one of Rockingham County’s largest employers, his story demonstrates how community college education can open doors to opportunities that last a lifetime.
~By Gerri Hunt, RCC Director of Marketing and Communications
