Terry Houck, Jr.’s compassionate approach and commitment to excellence make this vocational training program a five-star experience.

— Kit Roberts, Western Carolina Industries Recovery Friendly Workplace Director

Entry-Level Placements For Recovery Friendly Employers

We make it our mission to support recovery-based vocational training by providing opportunities to develop skills that are foundational to leading an independent, healthy and meaningful life.

Our primary client, FIRST at Blue Ridge, offers expert clinical care, campus housing, daily essentials and case management to people striving to overcome socioeconomic barriers, substance use disorder and justice involvement. As a state-licensed nonprofit organization, they rely on the sustainability of their vocational training program for funding — and that is where we come in.

Learning-To-Lead LLC serves FIRST at Blue Ridge by coordinating the assignment of vocational trainees to entry-level positions with employers that welcome second-chance candidates.

Examples: Machine Operation | Quality Inspection | Component Assembly | Product Packaging | Manual Cleaning | Food Service

Each trainee is required to complete a comprehensive job-readiness curriculum at the Goodwill Career Center on Patton Avenue during the orientation phase of their one-year recovery journey. And the FIRST at Blue Ridge management team selects trainees for individual assignments based on practical skill assessments. So employers can rest assured that integrity and dependability are always top of mind.

✓ First & Second Shift — Economical Hourly Rate

✓ General Liability & Workers’ Comp Coverage

✓ 24/7 Regional Transportation

Informational Resource: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) — Click Here

  • Long-Term Assignments

    We support recovery-based vocational training by partnering with local employers that welcome second-chance candidates — helping them build marketable skills.

  • Employment Preparation

    Vocational trainees are required to complete a comprehensive job-readiness curriculum at the Goodwill Career Center on Patton Avenue in Asheville.

Structured Teamwork

The administrative group at FIRST at Blue Ridge works alongside our company to develop personal connections with employment partners of all sizes. From advanced manufacturers with distribution channels around the world to small-town barbecue and pizza restaurants, we form vocational training relationships that are designed to help people in recovery build meaningful careers.

In some cases, that could mean production-level roles that require hands-on technical skills. And in other cases, it could mean team leadership roles that require critical thinking, problem solving and detailed communication skills. Ultimately, the goal is to reestablish independence and accountability.

Pictured (L/R): Mark Merrick, Nick Sottile