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 […]
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact: Help Us Build the Future with $25 for 25 Years
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, as we mark 25 years […]
From the Classroom to the Jobsite: Success Stories Driving West Virginia’s Future
When people think about what keeps West Virginia running, they often think of the industries—construction, manufacturing, energy, transportation—that power our economy. But behind every project, every delivery, and every completed job is something even more important: the skilled workers who make it happen. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we know that when we invest […]
What It Takes to Build a Workforce That Works for West Virginia
West Virginia’s future depends on having a strong, reliable workforce ready to take on the jobs that keep our state running. But right now, many industries across our state are facing a challenge that threatens that future: there simply aren’t enough skilled workers to fill critical roles. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we’re doing […]
How Skilled Workers Are Keeping West Virginia’s Economy Strong
West Virginia has always been powered by hard work. From the industries that built our communities to the businesses that keep them running today, skilled workers are the foundation of our state’s economy. But right now, a growing shortage of trained professionals threatens to slow that momentum. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we see […]
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 […]