Introvert-Friendly Skilled Trades Careers
Not everyone dreams of a fast-paced job filled with team huddles, constant collaboration, and group projects. Some people thrive in quieter environments where focus, precision, and independence matter more than small talk. If that sounds like you, the skilled trades may offer more options than you think. While many trades do involve teamwork and communication, […]
Careers That Use Trade Skills Without the Heavy Lifting
When most people think of a skilled trades career, they picture someone swinging a hammer, climbing scaffolding, or hauling lumber across a jobsite. And while those roles are essential and rewarding, they aren’t the only option. The truth is, many high-paying, in-demand jobs in the trades don’t require heavy lifting, long days in the sun, […]
Voice From The Field: Ashlee Edwards
What is your name and occupation? My name is Ashlee Edwards, and I am a Digital Strategist working in news. What education and career path led you to become a Digital Strategist? To start, I had no intention of working in news. I went to school at the International Academy of Design and Technology in […]
Voice From The Field: Noelle Linda Kolb
What is your name and occupation? Noelle Linda Kolb. I am the owner of Assumption Records in Rivesville, WV. Can you tell me about the personal journey that led to owning a record store? I started my professional life as a pharmacy tech. That was my job for many years until our daughter Windy was […]
Why Pre-Apprenticeship Works: From Hesitation to Confidence in 12 Weeks
Confidence doesn’t come from wishing things were different. It comes from doing something you didn’t think you could do, and proving to yourself that you can. Many of the students who walk through our doors don’t see themselves as “hands-on” workers. Some have never picked up a power tool. Some haven’t worked in years. Others […]
Start Strong, Stay Strong: What Pre-Apprenticeship Really Teaches
Everyone talks about getting people into apprenticeships. But what happens before that? What prepares someone to succeed once they’re there? Pre-apprenticeship is often misunderstood as basic training, but it’s so much more than that. At WVWW, we prepare students to succeed not just in the classroom, but in the real world. We teach things that […]
The Hidden Work Behind Workforce Readiness: Why Pre-Apprenticeship Is the Game Changer
When someone gets hired but can’t hold the job, people often blame the worker. But what if the real issue is that they were never given the chance to prepare? Pre-apprenticeship fills a gap most people don’t even see. It gives people the chance to build skills before stepping into high-stakes environments like construction sites, […]
Why Pre-Apprenticeship Training Saves Time and Money
When someone shows up for a job unprepared, it costs everyone. Employers, training programs, and the individual trying to get a fresh start all feel the impact. That’s where pre-apprenticeship comes in. At West Virginia Women Work, we train people before they ever set foot on a jobsite or apply for an apprenticeship. We focus […]
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 […]