Our Partners

More than 60 local employers are investing in the next generation of talent, providing opportunities across Healthcare, Skilled Trades, Advanced Manufacturing, Hospitality, Life Sciences, and Public Service.

Through partnership with RISE, students are gaining real-world experience and exploring pathways that can lead to education, employment, and long-term careers right here at home.

Healthcare

AMOREM*

Appalachian Health Department

Appalachian Institute for Health & Wellness 3 Moves

Breakthrough Physical Therapy

Caldwell County – EMS

Children's Neurotherapy Services of Granite Falls

Deerfield Assisted Living & Memory Care

EmergOrtho

Homesley Dental / Dr. Holland Family Dentistry

OP Smiles

UNC Health Appalachian

UNC Health Blue Ridge*

UNC Health Caldwell

Watauga Arts Council

Hospitality

Appalachian State University: Campus Dining*

Beech Mountain Resort

Blue Ridge Mountain Club *

Booneshine Brewing *

Cardinal of Boone *

Chetola Resort *

Cranford Hospitality

Explore Boone

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Boone

JEBCC Catering Group

Panoramic Hospitality *

The Horton Hotel/The Crestwood *

The Mitford Museum

Tuttle State Educational Forest

UNC Health Appalachian – Dietary *

*Open to interviews, waiting on a student placement

Skilled Trades

Cloninger Ford Motor Company

Caldwell County Schools – Trade Up

Foothills Aviation Club / Lower Creek Airport

Foothills Regional Airport

Hampton Inn & Suites by Hilton Boone - Maintenance

Hardin Creek Timber Frame

McMillion Electric

Priority Electric

Trailer Sales & Services

UNC Health Appalachian - Plant Operations

VPC Builders *

Manufacturing

Aiken Controls

Bernhardt Furniture

Carolina Prime Pet *

Carolina Precision Components

Exela Pharma Sciences

Fairfield Chair

MDI *

Minda *

CCC&TI Department of Biotechnology

*Open to interviews, waiting on a student placement

Government / Business Services

Caldwell County – Finance

Caldwell County – Information Technology

Caldwell County – Sheriff's Department

CCC&TI Department of Branding & Marketing

Paragon Design Group

Pepsi of Hickory

Veterinary

Animal Hospital of Boone

Animal Medical Center of Boone

Lake Hickory Veterinary Hospital

Education / Workforce

Appalachian State University – Department of Physics & Astronomy

Caldwell County Schools – Happy Valley Elementary/Lower Creek Elementary/Trade UP

RISE Caldwell–Watauga

Watauga County Schools – Cove Creek School

Frequently Asked Questions

  • A pathway is a step-by-step way to explore a career through real work experience. Pathways can include pre-apprenticeships, apprenticeships, or internships, depending on your interests and goals.

  • RISE pathways are currently focused on high school students in Caldwell and Watauga counties. If you’re not sure whether you’re eligible, we encourage you to apply and our team will help guide you.

  • Yes. Most RISE pathways are paid and include stipends to help cover transportation, supplies, and other participation costs. Some programs also include completion bonuses.

  • Time commitments vary by pathway. Our internships and pre-apprenticeships are around 100–120 hours, while registered apprenticeships are long-term, competency-based commitments. Details are listed on each pathway page.

  • Yes. When you apply, you can share multiple interests. RISE will work with you to find the best fit based on availability and your goals.

  • You can apply by completing the RISE student application form. Treat it like a real job application—take your time, answer thoughtfully, and be yourself.