Voices From The Field: Hannah Grace & Trinity Love Rollins
Please tell me your name and what long term career path you want to pursue now that you’re graduates of Marshall University’s filmmaking program. Hannah: I’m Hannah Grace, and my goal is working in post-production or producing and helping with logistics of production itself. Trinity: I’m Trinity Love Rollins, and I intend to go into […]
Voice From The Field: Shamma Casson

What is your name, and what is your job in the film industry? My name is Shamma Casson. I am a trained actress, and I am also a script supervisor for short films, low-budget films, and other similar projects. I am also a member of the West Virginia Screen Actors Guild. How did you get […]
Voice From The Field: Brooke Gaston

I know you have two careers. Let’s talk about your career in the entertainment industry first. I have been in the entertainment industry for nearly twenty-five years, and I have worked my way up the ladder to become a line producer. Right now, my work is mostly in producing commercials, but I also work on […]
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 […]
Building Confidence, Breaking Barriers: How Women Are Reshaping the Construction Industry
The construction industry is evolving, and women are at the forefront of this transformation. At West Virginia Women Work’s Step Up for Women Construction Pre-Apprenticeship Program, we witness inspiring stories every day—stories of resilience, determination, and growth. One of those stories belongs to Deidra Simpson, a recent graduate who is now leading the way as […]
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: 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 […]
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 […]