An era when craftsmanship, mechanical arts, and grit were the foundation…

Located within eyesight of our robotics lab, the Iron Cross landmark in Waynesboro, Virginia, is a powerful inspiration, reminding us of an era when craftsmanship, mechanical arts, and grit were the foundation of America's railroad systems. This historic landmark represents the intersection of two important railroad lines that once transformed the region's economic landscape.

Today Waynesboro has a significant manufacturing presence with both established facilities and new developments. Waynesboro's manufacturing prowess dates to the 1800s when companies flocked to the area to take advantage of the water and transportation access. Today it continues to be a manufacturing hub.

Historical Context

About

Based in Waynesboro, Virginia, Iron Cross Robotics was founded in 2025 as a non-profit organization seeking 501(c)(3) status. Currently, we are in the process of developing a comprehensive curriculum, building out the laboratory space in the historic Virginia Metalcraft Building, and raising funds to offset the program costs for students. Iron Cross Robotics plans to welcome its first cohort of gap year participants in 2026.

Founder

Randy Caldejon is an engineer, entrepreneur, and veteran whose unconventional journey to finding his vocational calling was guided by his childhood motto: "if it ain't broken, fix it anyway!" Growing up, he constantly tinkered with mechanical things—rebuilding bicycles, repairing small engines and car engines, and eventually discovering his passion: solving real-world problems with software.

After working in food service and construction, and serving in the Marine Corps, he attended community college. He later earned his Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, and years later obtained a Master of Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. As he transitions into semi-retirement, he is completing a Master of Arts in Theological Studies at Westminster Theological Seminary. Influenced by Dr. Mark Garcia, Randy's final project focuses on the theology of mechanical arts, which inspired the creation of Iron Cross Robotics.

Mission

Iron Cross Robotics offers recent high school graduates of all backgrounds a transformative gap year experience. We combine hands-on education in the mechanical arts with ethos of classical Anglican formation. Through experiential learning, disciplined practice, and thoughtful reflection, we mentor young adults with essential life skills, vocational clarity, and curiosity for lifelong learning. Our approach grounds their development in a biblical understanding of vocation as God’s image-bearers equipped to cultivate, create, and serve.

Location

Virginia Metalcrafter Building
Waynesboro, VA 22980

Contact

info@ironcrossrobotics.org
434.235.1838