Building Careers, Building Communities: A Solid Foundation for West Virginia’s Future
For nearly 25 years, West Virginia Women Work has been dedicated to providing women with the training and skills they need to succeed in nontraditional careers. Through our Building Careers, Building Communities campaign, we’re helping women break into skilled trades and manufacturing, opening doors to rewarding careers that benefit both individuals and the communities they live in. By preparing women for high-demand jobs, we’re not just supporting their futures—we’re contributing to the strength and stability of our local economy.
The Need for Skilled Workers in West Virginia
West Virginia is facing a critical shortage of skilled workers, especially in the trades and manufacturing sectors. At the same time, women remain vastly underrepresented in these fields. By offering industry-recognized certifications and hands-on training, WVWW is helping to fill this gap.
Strengthening Communities Through Skilled Work:
At WVWW, we believe in the power of skilled trades to change lives and build stronger communities. Every woman who completes our program is equipped not just with the skills for a successful career but with the ability to give back to their community. Your donation makes these stories possible.
I chose to be in the Step up for Woman Construction Program because I believe knowledge is power and learning is never ending and never wasted.
How WVWW is Shaping Careers and Strengthening Communities
At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we offer comprehensive training programs designed to equip women with the technical skills and certifications needed to succeed in high-demand careers in the skilled trades and manufacturing industries. Our hands-on training, guided by industry professionals, ensures that students gain practical experience in areas such as carpentry, welding, plumbing, electrical work, and more.
In addition to trade-specific training, our students earn valuable industry certifications that enhance their employability, including OSHA 10, Forklift certification, and First Aid/CPR/AED certification.
Beyond technical training, WVWW provides comprehensive career support, including job readiness training, career counseling, and mentorship programs, ensuring students have the resources they need to transition smoothly from the classroom to the workforce. We also maintain strong partnerships with local employers to ensure our graduates are prepared to meet industry standards and contribute from day one.
By providing a combination of technical education and personalized career support, WVWW is building a workforce that addresses the growing demand for skilled trades while helping women achieve financial independence and long-term career success.
Alumni Voices: Real Stories, Real Impact
Skilled laborer/Driver for Trulargo LLC
I was the first woman hired and have now been with the company for six and a half years. We do excavation, site prep, general contracting, project management, remodels/repairs, new builds, turnkey, and demolition. I have been trained to operate heavy equipment. I’m the primary driver for our roll-off service and take care of deliveries, pickups, scheduling, and payments.
Step Up gave me the basic building blocks, knowledge, and confidence to not only get hired by a small but mighty family-owned company but thrive in my role and become an integral part of our company. I’ve never met better people to work for, who value my worth, teach me something new every day, and always have my best interest in mind. I have the WV Step Up Program to thank for that—it allowed me to get my foot in the door and changed my life. My future goal is to become the second in command when the owner retires and his son steps into his role as owner/operator.
“This construction pre-apprenticeship has truly changed the directory of my life. For the last 3 years, I was completely lost in life. I knew I wanted to succeed but could never find a career that stuck out to me. That was until I joined this program.” Olivia – Step Up for Women Construction
” I’m so appreciative to have had the opportunity to have taken this training and learned all the things I have without having to financially stress and worry about being able to pay for training.” Sarah – Step Up for Women Construction
“I would recommend West Virginia Women Work to anyone I meet that wants to start a new career or trade. The program helped me with my Barriers and which ones I needed to overcome to help me in this trade. The atmosphere and surroundings with this group of people are just amazing in every way, it was easy to get along with everyone and I would call this my second family.” Gwynna – Step Up for Women Advanced Manufacturing
“West Virginia Women Work’s impact extends far beyond training and support. They are truly making a difference in the lives of women around the state by empowering them to pursue their passions, achieve their goals, and contribute to the growth and success of their communities!” Tamara – Step Up for Women Advanced Manufacturing
Voices From The Field: Women Leading the Way in Nontraditional Careers
At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we’re proud to highlight the stories of women who are breaking barriers and making an impact in nontraditional fields. Whether they are graduates of our program or professionals from across the region, these women demonstrate the diverse range of career opportunities available in skilled trades and other nontraditional paths. Each woman featured in this section represents strength, resilience, and the determination to succeed in industries traditionally dominated by men.
By showcasing their journeys, we aim to inspire others to pursue careers in the trades and support those already making their mark. These stories reflect the many ways women are contributing to economic growth, community development, and the success of industries critical to our state.
Voice From The Field: Christal Collins
(Gore, WV) It’s 7:30 am on a Friday morning, and school bus driver Christal Collins takes a moment to welcome a coworker with a hug before submitting a stack of
Voice From The Field: Samantha Leeson
(Bridgeport, WV) Perched on the top floor of an unassuming brick building on the main thoroughfare of town, Samantha Leeson brews her morning coffee while sorting through parts orders on
Voice From The Field: Mallorie Shomo (Laborer)
(Junior, WV) Mallorie Shomo sits at her parents’ dining room table as she scrolls through photos of her children. Only moments earlier the house was abuzz with activity as everyone
Support Women Who Are Ready to Work Hard and Give Back
Your donation today will directly support women who are ready to work hard, contribute to their local economy, and strengthen our communities. Together, we can make sure that every woman has the opportunity to succeed and give back to the place we all call home. These opportunities can’t wait. Your support today can ensure that more women get the training they need to keep our communities strong.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps hardworking women succeed and makes our communities stronger. Thank you for standing with us to build a brighter future for West Virginia.
Your Support Builds Stronger Communities
Together, we can ensure that women in West Virginia have the opportunity to succeed and give back to the communities we all call home. Your support makes all the difference.Building Careers, Building Communities: Insights into Trades, Careers, and Community Impact
Strengthening Our Communities Through Safety: A West Virginia Woman’s Call to Action
Hello fellow Mountaineers! Did you know that while women are stepping boldly into roles traditionally held by men, they’re often stepping into oversized boots and helmets? That’s right, in the Mountain State, where resilience and grit run deep, we’re seeing more women light up industries like construction and manufacturing. Yet,
What Are the Most Common Safety Risks in Skilled Trades, and How Can They Be Prevented?
Skilled trades such as construction, plumbing, and electrical work are critical to building and maintaining infrastructure, but they also come with significant safety risks. Understanding these risks and how to prevent them is key to ensuring the safety of workers and the success of projects. Below, we’ll explore some of
Safety Gear for Skilled Trades Workers
In the skilled trades, safety gear is not only essential for protecting workers but also required by industry standards and regulations to minimize the risk of injury. From construction sites to manufacturing plants, having the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can be the difference between a safe workday and a
Join us in building careers and communities. Your support helps provide women with the skills they need to succeed in life-changing careers. Donate today and be part of the future we’re building together.
