HMHEC was established in 2003 as a partnership between Appalachian State University, Catawba Valley Community College, and Lenoir-Rhyne College in collaboration with the City of Hickory and Catawba County.
In 2003, HMHEC was founded through a partnership among Appalachian State University, Catawba Valley Community College, and Lenoir-Rhyne College, supported by the City of Hickory and Catawba County.