When I first interviewed with Nichole, I was struck by how amazing this program was, and I told her right then: “Whether I’m accepted or not, I want you to know that what you’re doing here is phenomenal, and I support it fully.” Now, as a proud participant, I can
Q’Aliyah Turner is an ambitious young welder working in the Metro Valley region of West Virginia. When she’s not bending hot metal to her will, she is focused on her faith, aspirations of entrepreneurship, and seeing the world. (Charleston, WV) How did you decide to become a welder? I wanted
What is your current job? I am a commercial truck driver, and I drive a refrigeration truck. They have refrigerated units on 53-foot-long trailers hauled by tractors, and my company has them going across the 48 continental United States delivering goods. The cargo can range from cheese and chocolate to
(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 paperwork to the transportation office. She makes her rounds greeting the rest of the office staff before getting on with
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
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
Skilled trades offer fulfilling and well-paying careers, but they also require a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills to truly thrive. Whether you’re interested in carpentry, plumbing, welding, or manufacturing, success in skilled trades comes down to mastering a variety of skills. Here’s a breakdown of the
Safety in the skilled trades isn’t just a box to be checked—it’s an essential part of building a successful career and ensuring the well-being of workers, communities, and the economy. In fields like construction, manufacturing, and electrical work, proper safety protocols can mean the difference between life and death. At
When entering the skilled trades, one of the most important aspects of job preparation is understanding safety protocols and obtaining the proper safety certifications. Whether you’re working in construction, manufacturing, plumbing, electrical work, or any other trade, safety is paramount. Employers prioritize hiring workers who are well-trained in safety practices
(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 eBay. As a school bus driver for Harrison County Schools, Samantha’s mornings are split between ensuring students arrive safely and
