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, […]

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 […]

 How Apprenticeships Can Bridge the Gap to Economic Equality

If you’ve been following the headlines, you know that economic inequality is on the rise. For instance, the wealthiest 1% of Americans hold nearly 35% of the nation’s wealth, a stark contrast to what most households experience. Meanwhile, income disparity is also on the rise, with the top 20% of U.S. households earning over half […]

How Do Apprenticeships Open Doors for Women in Nontraditional Careers?

For women aiming to build careers in nontraditional fields like construction, manufacturing, and technology, apprenticeships offer an essential path toward economic independence, skills development, and meaningful career growth. Traditionally male-dominated, these industries have presented challenges for women entering and thriving within them. Apprenticeships help overcome these barriers by offering structured, supportive routes for women to […]

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 […]

What Are the Most Common Safety Risks in Skilled Trades, and How Can They Be Prevented?

Skilled trades such as construction, plumbing, and electrical work are critical to building and maintaining infrastructure, but they also come with significant safety risks. Understanding these risks and how to prevent them is key to ensuring the safety of workers and the success of projects. Below, we’ll explore some of the most common safety risks […]

Safety Gear for Skilled Trades Workers

In the skilled trades, safety gear is not only essential for protecting workers but also required by industry standards and regulations to minimize the risk of injury. From construction sites to manufacturing plants, having the right personal protective equipment (PPE) can be the difference between a safe workday and a serious accident. Below are the […]

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 […]

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 […]

Debunking the Myths: Women in Skilled Trades

Despite the growing number of women entering skilled trades, several myths and misconceptions persist about their ability to thrive in these traditionally male-dominated fields. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we’re proud to be part of the movement proving these myths wrong. In this blog, we’ll debunk some of the most common misconceptions about women […]

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