About Us

since 1976

Our History

Webster Enterprises of Jackson County, was founded in 1976 by a group of concerned parents who wanted a better life for their children with disabilities. From our humble beginnings in an old schoolhouse in Webster, North Carolina to our current state-of-the-art production facility, we have become one of the state’s leading vocational rehabilitation and developmental training programs. 

In 2020, we changed our name to WestBridge Vocational to better reflect our organization’s mission of being a provider of  services that bridge the gap between people with disabilities and disadvantages to opportunity.  In addition we updated our brand identity, which includes a new logo, colors, font, and a new tagline – ‘connecting people to opportunity’.   

Meet

Our Administrative Team

WestBridge Vocational is staffed with professionals in the Finance, Human Resources, Medical Devices, Program Services, and Quality.  We also hire individuals from the community to work as standard industrial workers, in addition to individuals who come here for assessment and training. Our staff is committed to providing a positive, productive employment experience for everyone.

Joe Rigdon, CEO Westbridge
Chief Executive Officer 

Joe Rigdon

Joe oversees all operations including manufacturing, vocation services and employee moral.

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 209
Mike Bowler - CFO
Director of Finance

Mike Bowler

Mike oversees all aspects of finances, budgeting and contractual agreements while working closely with fundraising efforts.

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 217
Sandy Stimson
director of human resources

Sandy Stimson

Sandy is responsible for the smooth management of Human Resources operations. 

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 201
Mike Rogers
Director of Fund Development

Mike Rogers

Mike leads the push to build private and corporate donations while enhancing WestBridge’s public image.

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 204
Chris Stucky photo man with glasses
Community Engagement Liaison

Chris Stuckey

Chris builds and oversees employer relations while co-directing WestBridge’s community presence and fundraising efforts.

 

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 212
Lady in pink shirt at desk - Brenda
director of quality

Brenda Gunter

Brenda ensures products and manufacturing processes meet the set quality standards and regulatory requirements.

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 208
Mike Rogers
Program Services Manager

Sarah Kearse

Sarah is responsible for services including Pre-ETS (Pre-employment transition services), Project SEARCH, Work Adjustment, and Supported Employment (Adult Services).

Phone

828-586-8981 ext. 218

Board of

Directors

 

WestBridge Vocational has an all volunteer Board of Trustees comprised of a members representing business, education and healthcare throughout western North Carolina.  If you are interested in serving on our board, please contact us.

Current Board of Directors

Jacob Buchannan – Chair
Sue Evans – Vice Chair
William Brothers – Secretary/Treasurer
Tommy Fouts
Lisa Sizemore
Abigail Clayton
Joe Rigdon – CEO / Ex Officio