Voice From The Field: Shamma Casson
What is your name, and what is your job in the film industry? My name is Shamma Casson. I am a trained actress, and I am also a script supervisor for short films, low-budget films, and other similar projects. I am also a member of the West Virginia Screen Actors Guild. How did you get […]
Voice From The Field: Brooke Gaston
I know you have two careers. Let’s talk about your career in the entertainment industry first. I have been in the entertainment industry for nearly twenty-five years, and I have worked my way up the ladder to become a line producer. Right now, my work is mostly in producing commercials, but I also work on […]
How to Take the First Step Toward a Career in the Trades
If you’ve ever thought about working with your hands, building something that lasts, and earning a great paycheck while doing it, now is the perfect time to start a career in the skilled trades. Across the country, there’s a growing demand for hardworking, dedicated individuals who can step up and fill essential roles in construction, […]
Build a Career in the Trades Without Debt: The Step Up Advantage
When most people think about high-paying careers, they often imagine years of college and the mountain of student debt that comes with it. But what if there was another way? What if you could learn valuable skills, secure certifications, and step into a rewarding career—all without spending a dime on tuition? That’s exactly what the […]
Building Confidence, Breaking Barriers: How Women Are Reshaping the Construction Industry
The construction industry is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation. At West Virginia Women Work’s Step Up for Women Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program, we witness inspiring stories every day—stories of resilience, determination, and growth. One of those stories belongs to Deidra Simpson, a recent graduate who is now leading the way as […]
Voice From The Field: Heather Jarrett-Geragosian
Image features Heather and her daughter, Cassidy, a recent graduate of Step Up for Women Construction. How did you start your career in construction? I’ve been doing construction since I was thirteen years old. My grandfather taught me how to weld, and together we built a boat. I was also influenced by my mom who […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Trista Searls
What were you doing before enrolling in the Step Up For Women construction program? Before joining Step Up, I was unemployed and Door-Dashing because I lost my job at a local treatment plant, and I was fighting to get back on my feet and have my own place. Last year I left a bad situation […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Cassidy Jarrett
What were you doing before enrolling in Step Up Construction For Women? Nothing. I was working at fast food restaurants. My mom works in construction, so I thought about entering the trades because of her example and because I am interested in the work as well. How did you find out about Step Up? What […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Samantha Branham
Samantha is shown in the center of the image. What were you doing before joining WV Women Work’s Step Up classes? I was unemployed, but before that, I was working for a utility company fixing water leaks. How did you become interested in construction? Most of my life I’ve worked around coal mines and enjoy […]
Celebrating Achievements and Looking Forward: A Reflection from WVWW’s Leadership
As I look back on 2024, I am overwhelmed with pride for what WV Women Work has accomplished this year. What a transformation! We’ve seen women step into new roles, gain the confidence to pursue life-changing careers, and inspire us all with their resilience and determination. We have been recognized on national stages and did […]