25 Years of Building Careers and Communities
For 25 years, we’ve been building careers and building communities—one skilled worker at a time.
West Virginia Needs Skilled Workers. We Build Them.
For 25 years, we’ve been building careers that build communities—one job, one graduate, and one future at a time.
In a time of worker shortages and economic uncertainty, West Virginia Women Work provides the training, tools, and support people need to step into high-wage careers—and keep our state moving forward.
Because when we build strong careers, we build strong families, strong businesses, and strong communities.
The Need for Skilled Workers in West Virginia
West Virginia’s economy depends on a strong, reliable workforce—but right now, there aren’t enough people to fill the jobs that keep our state running.
Industries like construction and manufacturing are facing critical worker shortages. At the same time, entire groups of talented, motivated people have been overlooked for these high-wage careers—leaving valuable skills untapped.
That’s where West Virginia Women Work steps in. For 25 years, we’ve been closing the gap with hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and real-world experience that prepares people to step into essential jobs.
The result? More skilled workers. Stronger communities. A better West Virginia.
Strengthening Communities Through Skilled Work
Skilled trades don’t just build careers—they build stronger communities.
At West Virginia Women Work, we’re helping people step into essential, high-demand jobs that keep our state moving forward. Every graduate leaves our program with the tools to succeed and the power to contribute to West Virginia’s future.
Your donation makes this possible. You’re not just supporting one person—you’re investing in the workforce that powers our economy, our communities, and our future.
WVWW gave me the skills to build my future and the confidence to know I belong in this work. Now I’m earning more than I ever thought possible.
This is what investing in West Virginia’s workforce looks like.
How WVWW is Shaping Careers and Strengthening Communities
West Virginia’s industries are growing—but the skilled workforce isn’t keeping pace. West Virginia Women Work helps close that gap by preparing motivated individuals to step into high-demand careers that keep our state running.
Through hands-on training led by industry professionals, WVWW students build real-world skills in carpentry, welding, plumbing, electrical work, and more. Along the way, they earn critical certifications like OSHA 10, Forklift, and First Aid/CPR/AED—credentials that make them job-ready from day one.
But we don’t stop at technical training. WVWW provides career coaching, mentorship, and job placement support to ensure graduates leave our program prepared not just for a job, but for long-term career success.
The result? A stronger workforce. More thriving local businesses. Greater financial stability for West Virginia families.
This is more than training—it’s building the future of West Virginia’s economy, one career at a time.
Alumni Voices: Real Stories, Real Impact
When graduates leave WVWW, they don’t just get jobs—they become part of the workforce that powers West Virginia’s economy. Here’s how our alumni are making an impact every day.
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.
“Before WVWW, I was lost, struggling to find a real career. This pre-apprenticeship gave me the skills and confidence to enter the trades and build a future I’m proud of.”
— Olivia, Construction Graduate
“This training gave me the knowledge I needed without the financial burden. Now, I’m prepared to step into a stable, high-wage career.”
— Sarah, Construction Graduate
“WVWW helped me overcome obstacles and prepare for a new career in manufacturing. Now I’m ready to work, earn, and contribute.”
— Gwynna, Advanced Manufacturing Graduate
“WVWW isn’t just about training—it’s about building West Virginia’s workforce. Thanks to their program, I’m pursuing a career that helps my community grow.”
— Tamara, Advanced Manufacturing Graduate
Voices From the Field: Building Careers That Keep West Virginia Moving
Real people. Real careers. Real impact on West Virginia’s economy.
Across West Virginia, hardworking individuals are stepping into essential roles that power our economy—from skilled trades and manufacturing to other hands-on, high-demand industries. Whether they’re WVWW graduates or professionals from across the region, these are the people keeping our state running strong.
In this section, we share the real journeys of workers building lasting careers in fields that keep our communities growing. Their dedication, talent, and commitment are proof of what’s possible with the right training and opportunities.
Voice From The Field: Lisa Jones
What is your name and profession? I’m Lisa Jones, and I’m the Program Coordinator for the WVU Extension Small Farm Center which is a center under the larger Agriculture and
Voice From The Field: Matthew Creameans – Training the Next Generation of Crane Operators
What is your name and what do you do? My name is Matthew Creameans, and I started NCCCO (National Commission for the Certification of Crane Operators) crane operator training when
Voice From The Field: Dakota Brown
What is your name, and what is your nontraditional career? My name is Dakota Brown, and I am a Cultivation Associate. My department focuses on cultivation and harvest, and I
Support the Workers Who Keep West Virginia Moving
Your donation today helps provide the training, tools, and support that prepare motivated individuals to step into essential, high-demand careers. Together, we’re building a stronger workforce and stronger communities—right here at home.
These opportunities can’t wait. With your help, we can keep filling critical jobs, powering local industries, and creating lasting economic impact across West Virginia.
Every contribution, no matter the size, helps strengthen West Virginia’s workforce and build a stronger, more resilient future for our communities. Thank you for investing in the people who keep our state moving.
Your Support Builds Stronger Communities
Together, we can ensure that West Virginians have the opportunity to build lasting careers and keep our communities strong. Your support fuels the training, tools, and opportunities that make all the difference.
Building Careers, Building Communities: Insights into Trades, Careers, and Community Impact
Trades vs. Traditional College: What’s the Better Fit for You?
Choosing a career path is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make. For decades, the message was clear: go to college, get a degree, and success will follow. But with rising student debt, changing job markets, and a growing need for skilled workers, more people are taking a
What Is Soft Skills Training—And Why Do Employers Care So Much?
When most people think about job training, they picture learning how to use tools, machines, or specific computer programs. But there’s another kind of training that can be just as important—sometimes even more so. It’s called soft skills training, and employers everywhere are looking for it. At West Virginia Women
Is a Career in the Trades Right for You?
With the rising cost of college, growing demand for skilled workers, and increasing interest in hands-on careers, more people are exploring the possibility of entering the trades. But how do you know if it’s the right path for you? At West Virginia Women Work, we’ve worked with hundreds of individuals
Join us in building a stronger West Virginia. Your support helps train skilled workers, fill critical jobs, and keep our communities thriving. Donate today and invest in the future of our state.
Powering Local Jobs and Careers with Our Workforce Partners
Our partners are investing in West Virginia’s future—through funding, hiring, and support that strengthens our workforce and keeps our communities moving. Together, we’re closing critical labor gaps, creating opportunities, and ensuring that local businesses and industries have the skilled workers they need to thrive.
We’re proud to work side by side with these leaders who are building a stronger, more resilient West Virginia.
