Voice From The Field: Heather Jarrett-Geragosian
Image features Heather and her daughter, Cassidy, a recent graduate of Step Up for Women Construction. How did you start your career in construction? I’ve been doing construction since I was thirteen years old. My grandfather taught me how to weld, and together we built a boat. I was also influenced by my mom who […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Trista Searls
What were you doing before enrolling in the Step Up For Women construction program? Before joining Step Up, I was unemployed and Door-Dashing because I lost my job at a local treatment plant, and I was fighting to get back on my feet and have my own place. Last year I left a bad situation […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Samantha Branham
Samantha is shown in the center of the image. What were you doing before joining WV Women Work’s Step Up classes? I was unemployed, but before that, I was working for a utility company fixing water leaks. How did you become interested in construction? Most of my life I’ve worked around coal mines and enjoy […]
Celebrating Achievements and Looking Forward: A Reflection from WVWW’s Leadership
As I look back on 2024, I am overwhelmed with pride for what WV Women Work has accomplished this year. What a transformation! We’ve seen women step into new roles, gain the confidence to pursue life-changing careers, and inspire us all with their resilience and determination. We have been recognized on national stages and did […]
Discover the World of Advanced Manufacturing: A Conversation with Stacie Boggess
At West Virginia Women Work, we’re proud of our Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship Program. To give potential students a closer look at what this 10-week journey entails, I sat down with Stacie Boggess, our program coordinator, to discuss what students can expect, the unique opportunities provided, and the life-changing skills they’ll gain. Here’s an inside look […]
Voice From The Field: Tara Sutton
Meet Second Lieutenant Tara Sutton, a finance officer with the Civil Air Patrol, whose passion for aviation and community service is shaping future leaders. Through hands-on training in search and rescue, leadership development, and exposure to career paths in aviation, science, and engineering, Civil Air Patrol provides participants with life-changing opportunities. Discover how this organization […]
A Community United: The Collective Impact of WVWW’s Supporters and Partners
At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), our mission thrives because of the unwavering support of our donors, partners, and students. This year, their combined efforts have transformed not just our organization but also the communities we serve. Together, they’ve shown what’s possible when a community unites for a shared purpose: building careers, building communities, and […]
How to Support Apprenticeships and Strengthen Our Community on Giving Tuesday
Giving Tuesday is more than just a day of generosity—it’s a chance to create lasting change in our communities. At West Virginia Women Work, we’re proud to train the next generation of skilled workers through our free pre-apprenticeship programs, equipping women with the tools, certifications, and confidence they need to thrive in high-demand careers. Your […]
The Long-Term Benefits of Completing an Apprenticeship
Choosing a career path is a major decision, and for many, the traditional college route might not be the best fit. Apprenticeships offer a valuable alternative, especially for those interested in hands-on, skilled trades. Beyond the immediate benefit of earning while learning, apprenticeships provide a foundation for long-term success that extends well into the future. […]
How to Get Started with an Apprenticeship: A Step-by-Step Guide
Starting an apprenticeship is a powerful way to gain valuable skills, earn while you learn, and set yourself on a stable career path, especially in skilled trades. But knowing how to get started can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the process. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate each step on the road […]
