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

01 · Historical context

Within eyesight of the lab

The Iron Cross landmark in Waynesboro, Virginia, marks the intersection of two railroad lines that once remade the region's economy. It stands within eyesight of our robotics lab, and it is where the name comes from — a reminder of an era when craftsmanship, mechanical arts, and grit were the foundation of America's railroads.

Waynesboro's manufacturing prowess dates to the 1800s, when companies came for the water and the transport. It remains a manufacturing hub today, with established plants and new development — which is precisely why a training lab belongs here.

Why faith-driven?

We are a vocational training lab driven by convictions rooted in the Christian tradition: that work has dignity, that every person bears the image of their Creator, and that excellence is a form of stewardship. The classic Anglican tradition shapes our culture — how we treat one another, how we approach the work, what we expect of ourselves. We welcome participants of every race, faith, and background. What we ask is a willingness to show up, work hard, and grow. Not just as technicians, but as people.

The organization

Founded in 2025 and based in Waynesboro, Virginia, The Tekton Foundation — doing business as Iron Cross Robotics — is a non-profit currently seeking 501(c)(3) status. We are building out the laboratory inside the historic Virginia Metalcrafters Building and securing funding to keep the program accessible to students. The first class begins in the fall of 2026.

The founder

Randy Caldejon is an entrepreneur, technologist, and Marine Corps veteran who grew up tinkering with anything mechanical — bicycles, engines, then software. He followed a winding path through food service, construction, and the military before earning a B.S. in Computer Science (UMBC) and an M.Eng. in Computer Engineering (Rensselaer), and recently completed an M.A. in Theological Studies (Westminster), where his summative project examined the theological ethics of artificial intelligence.

03 · Mission

Why we do this

Iron Cross Robotics prepares young adults for careers in the mechanical arts through a pre-apprenticeship program combining hands-on training in robotics, fabrication, and systems integration with intentional mentorship and character development.

Participants gain vocational clarity, life skills, and curiosity for lifelong learning — grounded in a faith-driven understanding of vocation as God's image-bearers, equipped to cultivate, create, and serve.

Curious to know more?

Iron Cross Robotics welcomes its first cohort in 2026. Sign up for news, open-house dates, and progress from the shop floor.