John L. Rufty Jr., President and CEO of Carolina Amputee and Orthotic Center, began his journey of Prosthetics and Orthotics at Appalachian State University, where he received a Bachelors of Science in 1990. He then continued his education in the highly competitive Prosthetic and Orthotic program at Northwestern University in Chicago.

After receiving his certificate to practice, he served as the Director of Prosthetics and Orthotics at Tom’s Rehab Hospital for approximately one year before starting Carolina Amputee and Orthotic Center. As John and his business grew from the initial stages of fabricating in his garage, he moved to an office in Conover. Today Carolina Amputee and Orthotic Center serves patients in its main office in Hickory as well as offices in Statesville and Valdese.

Kenneth started at Carolina Amputee in 1996, first as a patient. In 2003, Kenneth started working as a technician at Carolina Amputee and earned his certification as a Prosthetic Assistant through the American Board for Certification. He quickly adapted to the skill of modifying sockets and custom orthotics. Kenneth now manages the majority of Prosthesis fabrication in the Onsite Lab and our Mobile Lab services.  He recently celebrated his 20th year anniversary at Carolina Amputee.

Kenneth most enjoys working with all of his patients. Being an amputee himself, he understands the challenges his patients face. In his spare time, he is racing motorcycles and coordinating motorcycle races as well as spending time with his growing family.

We are excited to welcome John to the team at Carolina Amputee and Orthotics. With a lifelong connection to the field, having grown up in the industry and watching his father navigate life as an amputee, John brings a unique perspective and deep understanding of the challenges and triumphs that come with prosthetic and orthotic care.

Having actively participated in the family business from an early age, John is passionate about helping others and is committed to improving the quality of life for those who rely on prosthetics and orthotics.

John received an undergraduate degree in biology at North Carolina State University and a Masters of Science in Prosthetics and Orthotics from Alabama State University. In his spare time, John spends most of his time outdoors hunting and offshore fishing.

We are thrilled to have John on board as we continue our mission to empower and inspire those we serve.