Catawba County provides a strong, industry-focused workforce development ecosystem that equips manufacturers with skilled, job-ready talent at every stage of the pipeline. Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) plays a central role through its Workforce Readiness Program, which includes pre-apprenticeships, work-based learning opportunities, the Catawba Apprenticeship Network, and participation in ApprenticeshipNC, connecting employers to registered apprenticeship programs statewide. CVCC also offers hands-on technical training in welding, machining, and mechatronics, while its Corporate Development Center partners with companies to provide customized training, incumbent worker upskilling, and industry-specific certifications. Local Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs in Catawba County Schools, Hickory City Schools, and Newton-Conover City Schools introduce high school students to advanced manufacturing and skilled trades through practical coursework and industry-recognized credentials. Lenoir-Rhyne University and Appalachian State University’s Hickory Campus further strengthen the pipeline for engineering, management, and professional roles.

 

The Western Piedmont Workforce Development Board and state programs such as NC Community College's NCEdge can assist with customized training programs, pre-employment training and assessments, and post-hire technical training, by providing reimbursable training funds, competitive training grants, and hiring incentives to help companies recruit, train, and retain talent. Because of this coordinated approach, North Carolina is currently ranked the #1 state in workforce development by Site Selection Magazine.

​

Regionally, workforce partners support training for Catawba County’s targeted industry sectors. Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute offers life sciences training, including BioWork certification, preparing students for biotechnology, medical device and laboratory careers.  For NextGen Textiles, Gaston College provides hand-on training in Textiles Technology through its Textile Technology Center and Fiber Innovation Center, ensuring employers have access to skilled, industry-ready workers.