This week, the Board and staff of the Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development (HCPED) and the Economic Investment Fund (EIF) of Henderson County unveiled a special project with the release of You Can Make It!, the first-ever children’s book created by the Partnership.

Designed specifically to introduce young students to the world of manufacturing and career opportunities in Henderson County, You Can Make It! will be incorporated into the curriculum for Henderson County Public Schools (HCPS) during the 2026–2027 school year. 

“Our team continues to come up with innovative ideas to share the story of manufacturing in Henderson County,” said Beau Waddell, chair of the board for the Partnership. “They are truly thought leaders in economic development. We are excited to promote manufacturing careers among our youngest learners, hopefully impacting our future workforce.”

The story follows Leo, a curious kid who wants to learn more about manufacturing. Widget – a cheerful Cardinal – becomes his tour guide through the industry of Henderson County. Widget shows Leo what a career in manufacturing looks like: high-tech and clean, making things people use every day. 

“Through the years, our Made in Henderson County program has adapted to support the needs of our future workforce,” said Nathan Kennedy, chair of the board for the EIF. “This was a team effort. The partnership with HCPS to get this in the classroom and hands of our students is impressive, and we couldn’t have done this without the support of the Community Foundation of Henderson County.”

The book is part of the Made in Henderson County (MIHC) program, which introduces students from elementary through college age to manufacturing careers. You Can Make It! serves as a touchpoint for the youngest audience members and their parents.

“As educators, we’re always looking for new ways to connect learning with real-world opportunities,” said Henderson County Public Schools. “You Can Make It! will help our students imagine their own futures right here in Henderson County.”

The book came together through the creative collaboration of Henderson County Partnership for Economic Development, Henderson County Public Schools, and the Economic Investment Fund of Henderson County, with special financial support from the Community Foundation of Henderson County and Pepsi-Cola Bottling Co.

“The Foundation’s contribution was made possible through the generosity and vision of donors who wanted to ensure Henderson County remains a supportive community where future generations can live, work, and thrive,” said Kris Merritt, Senior Program Officer at the Community Foundation of Henderson County. “Efforts like this can spark early awareness of local career paths while casting a vision for future workforce leaders.”

The Partnership will host several other workforce development events this fall, including the 2026 Manufacturing Day, which coordinates tours for CTE high school students at local manufacturing facilities, and the Manufacturing Showcase, a week-long celebration of all that is made in Henderson County, taking place from Oct. 13-17 at the Blue Ridge Mall.

You Can Make It! Is available for purchase on Amazon and Barnes & Noble.