Under Pressure? Real-World Ways to Manage Stress

Life gets stressful, especially when you’re learning something new, changing careers, or trying to keep everything on track. Whether you’re in the middle of one of our training programs or just trying to make ends meet, stress shows up. And if you’re not careful, it can slow you down. But here’s the thing: you don’t […]

Showing Up Strong: Mental Resilience Matters on the Job

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and while we don’t always talk about it in big ways, we know it matters, especially when you’re trying to build a new career or get back on your feet. At West Virginia Women Work, we’ve seen that it takes more than just technical skills to succeed. It takes […]

What Is Job Shadowing, and Why You Should Try It

“You mean I can just ask to follow someone at their job for a day?” That’s the reaction we get all the time in our programs. Most people have never heard of job shadowing, but once they do, a lightbulb goes off. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to work in a certain […]

Why Pre-Apprenticeship Matters More Than Ever

Everyone agrees we need more skilled workers. Across West Virginia and beyond, employers are looking for dependable, trained individuals who can step onto a jobsite ready to work. Apprenticeship programs are a great solution, but they are not always the first step. In many cases, they are the second. That is where pre-apprenticeship comes in. […]

Safety Starts With Us: Why It’s Everyone’s Job

Construction is one of the most rewarding and most dangerous industries out there.But here’s the truth: most injuries are preventable. Whether you’re sweeping a floor or running the crew, safety is never someone else’s job. It starts with you. Why Safety Culture Matters Accidents don’t just affect one person. They impact families, job sites, project […]

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 second look at what 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 Work, we see the difference […]

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 considering this very question. If […]

Why Giving Your Time Matters: A Volunteer’s Role in Workforce Development

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 Month, we want to highlight […]

The Value of Apprenticeships in West Virginia’s Economy

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 with practical, job-specific skills, and […]