Off we go! Aerospace and aerospace industries have long been a part of the fabric of Caldwell County. In fact, the material eventually woven into the flag planted on the moon by the Apollo 11 astronauts was produced in Rhodhiss. Today, Caldwell County boasts the Foothills Regional Airport, home to a 5500’ runway and ample acreage ripe for development. Caldwell Community College & Technology Institute (CCC&TI) are also working to develop a curriculum around drone piloting and technologies to provide an educated workforce in this industry.
Caldwell Community College & Technical Institute (CCC&TI) – Hudson, NC Offers machining, mechatronics, engineering technology, and industrial systems — all directly tied to aerospace machining and production.
Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) – Hickory, NC Advanced Manufacturing, Robotics, Mechatronics, Mechanical Engineering Tech, and applied engineering programs used by precision manufacturing and aerospace suppliers.
Western Piedmont Community College (WPCC) – Morganton, NC Programs include Industrial Systems, Mechatronics Engineering Tech, and machining — relevant to aerospace component production.
Mitchell Community College (MCC) – Statesville, NC Offers engineering tech, industrial maintenance, and advanced manufacturing pathways supporting aerospace and defense manufacturing employers in Iredell County.
Aerospace & Aviation – Gaston College (Lincoln Campus) – Lincolnton, NC Within reach of Caldwell County and offering workforce training tied to advanced manufacturing and technical trades used in aerospace machining operations.
Aerospace Advantages in Caldwell County
Access to precision machining talent and technical workforce pipelines
Supportive business climate and available incentive programs
Strong manufacturing heritage and supply chain connections
Sites capable of supporting aerospace assembly, advanced machining, and specialized utilities
Proximity to regional airports and transportation infrastructure
Collaborative partnerships with state and local organizations, ensuring streamlined expansion processes
Record numbers of new businesses and industries have registered in Caldwell: 250-500 each year since 2018. The CCC&TI Business Center is ready to assist.
Smithsonian Celebrated Sculpture Gardens
Smithsonian Celebrated Sculpture Gardens
Caldwell County has the most extensive collection of permanent public outdoor sculptures per capita in the U.S. Our annual Sculpture Celebration is the largest in the South.
2025 Key Indicators Report
Caldwell County is building on its historic manufacturing legacy while embracing the industries of tomorrow. With affordability, a strategic location, and a skilled workforce, the county is a prime destination for business growth and investment.
NC is the No.1 Southeast State for Sustainability
NC is the No.1 Southeast State for Sustainability (Site Selection)
NC has increased production of renewables by nearly 52%, double the average of all 50 states
NC is America’s Top State for Business
NC is America’s Top State for Business (CNBC, 2022)
Powered by an economy that has hit its stride and turbocharged by a track record of innovation, Caldwell County is the best of NC.
Manufacturing Week 2026
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Free Job Training for Qualifying Businesses
Free Job Training for Qualifying Businesses
CCED works closely with CCC&TI and local manufacturers to meet the workforce needs of employers.
Record-Breaking Private Sector Wage Growth
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%.
Existing Manufacturing Space Available
Existing Manufacturing Space Available
Move right into one of our existing manufacturing buildings. The infrastructure is in place and a trained workforce is ready.
Meander the Blue Ridge Parkway and Historic Happy Valley
Meander the Blue Ridge Parkway and Historic Happy Valley
Explore scenic vistas, historical sites, art, breweries, wineries, eateries and more along this world famous route.
Renowned “Adventure Towns”
Renowned “Adventure Towns”
The Blue Ridge foothills, Pisgah National Forest and Wilson Creek are our playgrounds for biking, off-roading, watersports, hiking, hunting, fishing and camping.
Our Festivals Bring Neighbors Together
Our Festivals Bring Neighbors Together
Whether we’re celebrating art, butterflies, blackberries, BBQ or wine, the calendar is full of Southern charm.
Eat and Play North Carolina
Eat and Play North Carolina
Explore the Caldwell County Itinerary for food, shopping, highlights, lodging and adventures! We invite locals and visitors to delight in the journey and the destination.
Our Mountains, Rivers and Lakes are Calling
Our Mountains, Rivers and Lakes are Calling
Life in Caldwell County can be full of adventure. Spend the day exploring parks, mountains, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking and biking.