Catawba Valley Community College Partners with the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction to Launch Furniture Training Program
NEWTON, N.C. — December 2, 2024 — Catawba Valley Community College (CVCC) and the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction (NCDAC) recently recognized the first NCDAC students to complete courses in the Catawba Valley Furniture Academy, a new, innovative workforce development initiative designed to provide incarcerated individuals with valuable job training and employability skills in the furniture industry
12/02/2024
This one-of-a-kind program offers eligible individuals in work-release programs the opportunity to gain up to 1,500 hours of comprehensive furniture industry training. Students learn furniture manufacturing and related skills, preparing them for meaningful employment post-release. The program also emphasizes reducing recidivism by providing participants a clear path to stability through employment. During the event on November 26, the first cohort of students were recognized for completing Furniture Fundamentals, the first course in the training program.
The Catawba Valley Furniture Academy (CVFA) is an industry-driven training program designed by regional furniture manufacturers to prepare students for high-demand, skilled positions. Participants will learn various skills, including furniture fundamentals, pattern making, inside upholstery, sewing, and more. The CVFA program directly responds to North Carolina’s growing need for skilled workers in the furniture industry. Graduates of the program will receive industry-recognized certifications and the confidence to contribute to North Carolina’s thriving furniture sector.
“CVCC has a proud tradition of meeting the needs of our community, and this partnership underscores our commitment to creating pathways for success for every individual,” said Dr. Robin Ross, CVCC Vice President for K-64 and Workforce Development. “By equipping justice-involved individuals with in-demand skills, we prepare them for meaningful careers and help our region’s economy continue to grow.”
“Teaching marketable job skills to people leaving incarceration is one of the best ways to ensure post-release success,” said Dr. Brooke Wheeler, education superintendent for the NC Department of Adult Correction.
For more information about the program, please contact:
Gary Muller
Executive Dean, Economic Development and Corporate Education
Catawba Valley Community College
Email: gmuller@cvcc.edu
Phone: (828) 327-7000, ext. 4672
About Catawba Valley Community College
Catawba Valley Community College empowers students to transform the communities of our region and our state by providing exceptional learning experiences, premier workforce development, and engaging personal enrichment. Learn how you can SOAR at cvcc.edu.
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