Can you tell me about your education and professional journey? My background is in chemistry. I got my bachelor’s in chemistry from Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia which is an HBCU. An incident happened while I was an undergrad that prompted me to explore a career as a lawyer. There
In a world where the job market is constantly evolving, one thing remains the same: people need people. At West Virginia Women Work, we see every day how powerful mentorship and volunteer support can be in helping individuals transition into living-wage jobs, especially in the skilled trades. During National Volunteer
What is your name, and what is your job? My name is Nicole Holley, and I’m a CNC plasma table operator. What were you doing before you enrolled in WV Women Work’s Step Up for Women manufacturing class? I worked as a customer advocate for Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield.
In an ever-changing economic landscape, West Virginia faces a unique set of challenges and opportunities. One of the most promising strategies for maintaining and growing a strong workforce is the expansion and support of apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships have proven to be highly effective in bridging critical workforce gaps, equipping individuals
What is your current profession? I’m the Operations Manager for PATTERN. Would you mind explaining to our readers what PATTERN is? PATTERN is in development but is going to be a cut and sew manufacturing and industrial sewing training facility in Beckley, WV, set to open in late Summer. We’re
What were you doing before you joined WV Women Work’s Step Up for Women construction class? I was working at Camp Dawson as an administrator and helping with the drill that came in. I’d help them log on to their computers and whatever else they needed. I also worked at
What is your name, and what do you do? My name is Carole Howard, and I am the North Central Step Up for Women Construction Training Coordinator for West Virginia Women Work. What were you doing before you joined West Virginia Women Work? I was a graphic designer at City
What were you doing before enrolling in West Virginia Women Work’s Step Up for Women construction class? I was working at fast food restaurants. I was trying to figure out what career to pursue, but nothing felt right. One day I went to the library, as I like to do
Tell me about the professional and educational path that led you to where you are today. My name is Dave Lavender, and I am the Apprenticeship Program Coordinator with the West Virginia Department of Economic Development’s Film Office. I am a lifelong journalist as well as an entertainment journalist. My
For 25 years, West Virginia Women Work has been helping individuals across our state build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed in high-wage, high-demand careers in the skilled trades. From construction sites to manufacturing floors, our graduates are powering industries that keep our communities strong. This year,
