Voice From The Field: Robin Mitchell
Life doesn’t always go as planned, and Robin Mitchell knows this well. She started with a degree in music performance but found herself working different jobs that didn’t give her the stability or career she wanted. After facing tough financial challenges and big life changes, she decided to take a chance and join the Step […]
How Does an Apprenticeship Build a Strong Career Foundation?
In today’s competitive job market, a solid foundation is key to a successful career. Apprenticeships provide that foundation by offering hands-on experience, guidance from seasoned mentors, and valuable industry connections that are often challenging to obtain through traditional educational pathways. Here’s how apprenticeships build a path to long-term success and open doors to rewarding careers. […]
The Economic Power of Apprenticeships: Building Stronger Individuals and Communities
Apprenticeships have long been a proven pathway to career success, especially in skilled trades where hands-on experience is essential. However, the benefits of apprenticeships go far beyond individual career advancement—they provide lasting economic impact for communities by filling essential roles, supporting local businesses, and fostering a skilled workforce that meets industry demands. Let’s explore how […]
Voice From The Field: Q’Aliyah Turner
Q’Aliyah Turner is an ambitious young welder working in the Metro Valley region of West Virginia. When she’s not bending hot metal to her will, she is focused on her faith, aspirations of entrepreneurship, and seeing the world. (Charleston, WV) How did you decide to become a welder? I wanted to do a trade and […]
Voice From The Field: Kelly Cain
What is your current job? I am a commercial truck driver, and I drive a refrigeration truck. They have refrigerated units on 53-foot-long trailers hauled by tractors, and my company has them going across the 48 continental United States delivering goods. The cargo can range from cheese and chocolate to flowers and anything else that […]
Voice From The Field: Christal Collins
(Gore, WV) It’s 7:30 am on a Friday morning, and school bus driver Christal Collins takes a moment to welcome a coworker with a hug before submitting a stack of paperwork to the transportation office. She makes her rounds greeting the rest of the office staff before getting on with her day now that her […]
What Skills Do You Need to Succeed in Skilled Trades?
Skilled trades offer fulfilling and well-paying careers, but they also require a combination of technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and soft skills to truly thrive. Whether you’re interested in carpentry, plumbing, welding, or manufacturing, success in skilled trades comes down to mastering a variety of skills. Here’s a breakdown of the key abilities you’ll need to […]
Why Is Safety Critical in Skilled Trades?
Safety in the skilled trades isn’t just a box to be checked—it’s an essential part of building a successful career and ensuring the well-being of workers, communities, and the economy. In fields like construction, manufacturing, and electrical work, proper safety protocols can mean the difference between life and death. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), […]
What Safety Certifications Do Skilled Trades Workers Need?
When entering the skilled trades, one of the most important aspects of job preparation is understanding safety protocols and obtaining the proper safety certifications. Whether you’re working in construction, manufacturing, plumbing, electrical work, or any other trade, safety is paramount. Employers prioritize hiring workers who are well-trained in safety practices and equipped to handle potential […]
Voice From The Field: Samantha Leeson
(Bridgeport, WV) Perched on the top floor of an unassuming brick building on the main thoroughfare of town, Samantha Leeson brews her morning coffee while sorting through parts orders on eBay. As a school bus driver for Harrison County Schools, Samantha’s mornings are split between ensuring students arrive safely and managing online sales for her […]
