Alumnus of the Year 2024 (1967)
Leon Ponci - For over six decades Ponci’s Welding has provided master craftsmen and welders to perfectly execute fabrication projects, repairs, and construction. Ponci’s Welding is a family owned and operated business that started in 1946. It is a shop that delivers a wide range of welding services from simple trailer hitches to complex machine repairs. Born and raised in Orland, Leon took over his father and uncle’s business in 1987 and hasn’t stopped working since. Leon believes wholeheartedly in the tried-and-true golden rule of treating others the way he would like to be treated and applies it to his business. Specializing in personalized service and making every customer feel like family, Leon leads his experienced team of professionals in helping the community in whatever way possible.
Leon often provided repairs for various sport equipment and has donated countless hours in support to Orland Athletics. Leon stands by everything his business does; that’s why most of his work comes from “word of mouth” provided by satisfied customers.
Leon graduated from Orland High School in 1967, attended Shasta College and later Butte College. He is a certified welder and still provides special recommendations for solving tricky repair issues. He claims he can fix almost everything but a broken heart.
He and his wife Marilyn have been married for fifty-one years, they have three children, Audra, Jeff, and Greg (deceased), and several grandchildren. Leon was active in the community when his children were younger, and he continues to support the greater area of Orland through his generous donation of time and expertise.
