LENOIR, N.C. (WHKY) — Caldwell County has announced a leadership transition in its Economic Development department. Economic Development Director Ashley Bolick is departing, and Existing Industry Manager Jesse Trivette has been named interim director.

Trivette said he is honored to have the opportunity to serve Caldwell County and plans to build on the foundation established under Bolick while continuing to listen to businesses, strengthen partnerships and pursue opportunities that support investment, job creation and long-term growth.

Since joining Caldwell County Economic Development, Trivette has worked with Bolick as the county strengthened its economic development program, expanded support for existing industry, advanced workforce and talent development initiatives, and supported major business investment and expansion.

Bolick’s tenure included a reorganization and strengthening of the county’s economic development function, creation of a formal Existing Industry Support Program, and expansion of workforce and talent initiatives. The county says she played a key role in projects involving Bakers Waste Equipment, Dynastar Aerospace Machining, Granite Falls Composites and Wild Fork.

Her leadership also supported the approximately $1 billion expansion of the Google Lenoir Data Center and strategic work at Foothills Regional Airport. The county says Bolick also secured a $50,000 Golden LEAF SITE Program grant and more than $2 million in matching funds for a proposed sewer expansion project.

Bolick said she is proud of what the Economic Development Advisory Council, county leadership and community partners have accomplished together.

Trivette is a lifelong Caldwell County resident and earned the North Carolina Certified Economic Developer designation in 2025.