NEWTON, N.C. — The Catawba Valley Furniture Academy (CVFA) recognized the latest graduates of its Spring cohort on the evening of Thursday, January 25th.

For the past decade, the Catawba Valley Furniture Academy has prepared students for a variety of high-demand jobs in the furniture industry. The CVFA’s field-driven curriculum was designed and continues to be refined by furniture manufacturers local to the Catawba County region and beyond.

Graduates included Paula Campbell, Cynthia Clemente-Pastor, and Andrea Gonzalez—Sewing; and Mike Martinez—Inside Upholstery.

“On behalf of the furniture industry, I want to thank all students for choosing to go through the curriculum of the CVFA,” said Chris Watters, vice president of Restoration Hardware and long-term partner of the Academy. “Congratulations to the people who have been recognized tonight, and to the friends and family members who sacrificed something to get you where you are today.”

Watters also remarked on the growth of the CVFA since its opening in 2014 and its strong influence on its students as well as instructors.

“I want to reinforce that this industry needs you,” said Mark Jordan, former Executive VP of Basset Furniture and valued instructor of the CVFA. “I have been teaching classes and I dearly love what goes on here, and I believe the potential here is unlimited. You are going into a career that is alive and well, and you have a wonderful opportunity—good luck.”