Record-Breaking Private Sector Wage Growth
Caldwell County ranked 20th out of North Carolina’s 100 counties for wage growth in 2023. Since 2015, wages have grown an impressive 51.5%.
Wood Technology and Furniture
Even as Caldwell Country rapidly diversifies, the furniture industry remains a vital part of our manufacturing base. Hickory–Lenoir–Morganton Metropolitan Statistical Area is still number one in the state and world for furniture manufacturing.
In terms of existing talent, experience, infrastructure and resources, this is the best place to locate or expand a wood products company. Additionally, The North Carolina State University Industrial Extension Service, home of the National Institute of Standards and Technology Manufacturing Extension Partnership (NIST MEP) affiliate, has joined forces with statewide partners to develop an E3 (Economy, Energy and the Environment) initiative for the sustainability of the sector.
Caldwell County Advantages
- One of the highest percentages of wood-related workers in the U.S.
- Multi-generational experience in woodworking processes
- A deep pool of production and supervisory talent
- Low operating costs
- Low energy, real estate and construction costs
- Abundant wood resources
- Wood industry support services throughout the county and region
- Proximity to regional markets, railways and numerous trucking carriers
- Intermodal port facility, 73 miles away
Caldwell County Workforce Training Advantages
- Customized job-training is free to qualifying businesses
- Upholstery Institute at Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute
- Appalachian State University (ASU) Hickory
- North Carolina Center for Engineering Technologies (ASU) (Hickory)
- University of North Carolina-Charlotte (UNCC)
- NC State University Extension
- NC State University Industry Expansion Services
- Manufacturing Solutions Center
“The great things about doing business in Caldwell County? Well, there’s the central East Coast location, easy access to major highways, an abundance of skilled, professional and willing-to-work citizens, and lastly, leadership an expanding business can count on. We’re a 3rd generation company, and Caldwell County has supported us every step of the way.” Keith Johnston Owner/President Bruex, Inc. (Wood laminates manufacturer)
