Since taking a reporter job at The Hickory Daily Record two years ago, I’ve heard a lot of people say there are no good jobs in Hickory and how the furniture industry is dead.
Then I did a story on how five companies (Lexington Home Brands, Century Furniture, Lee Industries, Sherrill Furniture and Vanguard Furniture) became the founding partners with Catawba Valley Community College to create a furniture academy, helping fill high-demand, skilled positions in their industry.
So, what is the reality when it comes to the economy in Catawba County? Is there growth or isn’t there growth, and where and what industries are doing well?