Haywood County is home to a workforce of over 26,900 employees and a diversified economic base. Multiple advancement opportunities are available through continued education at both Haywood Community College and Western Carolina University in Fields ranging from Entrepreneurship to Public Safety. Haywood Community College is the primary center for both training the area’s workforce and for providing direct assistance to small business development. HCC is also a partner with other organizations leading economic development efforts. The college is involved with the Haywood County Economic Development Commission, the Haywood County Chamber of Commerce and the GoldenLEAF Advanced Machining Center project, efforts which are designed to attract new industry to the area, retain existing industry and build an environment that fosters economic growth and prosperity.
The Continuing & Adult Education division includes the following training areas: Small Business Center, Health & Emergency Services, Public Safety, Occupational Extension, Computer Training, Online Training, Corporate & Community Education, Business & Industry Training, and other Workforce Development efforts.