EducationNC (EdNC) recently featured RISE Caldwell-Watauga in an article and video, bringing attention to the collaborative efforts of local students, regional employers, and key education partners. The EdNC feature highlighted how these groups are working together to build effective career pathways designed to benefit students and the broader communities within Caldwell and Watauga counties.
The accompanying video provided a firsthand look at the program's initiatives. It showcased contributions from several local partners integral to its success. These partners include Watauga County Schools, Watauga County Economic Development, UNC Health Appalachian, The Cardinal, and the Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute's Watauga Campus Trades Extension. Through these collaborations, students are actively gaining real-world experience, offering them practical insights and allowing them to explore potential career paths within their home communities.
Since its launch in January 2026, RISE Caldwell-Watauga has rapidly become a significant force in local workforce development. The program has successfully connected more than 100 students with valuable work-based learning experiences, providing practical skills and exposure to various professional environments. Additionally, RISE has forged partnerships with more than 60 local employers, demonstrating widespread community engagement and support for its mission to bridge the gap between education and employment.
The scope of the RISE program is broad and inclusive, encompassing a wide array of vital local industries. These include health care, hospitality, skilled trades, and manufacturing, among others. This diverse engagement not only offers students a variety of career exploration avenues but also reflects a clear trend: an increasing number of local businesses are directly investing in the development of the region's future workforce, recognizing the importance of nurturing talent close to home.
Tara Brossa, who serves as both the Executive Director of RISE Caldwell-Watauga and an adjunct instructor in the Department of Hospitality Management at Caldwell Community College and Technical Institute, underscored the overarching community commitment. Brossa noted that communities in the region prioritize workforce development, emphasizing efforts to create opportunities for young people to "build their futures here at home." Her comments highlight the program's strong alignment with broader regional goals of fostering local talent and economic stability for future generations.
The spotlight from EducationNC affirms the growing recognition of RISE Caldwell-Watauga's impact. The program continues to connect students with meaningful experiences and local opportunities, contributing to a robust local workforce in Caldwell and Watauga counties.
