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 […]
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 […]
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 […]
Reflecting on My Journey with This Incredible Program
When I first interviewed with Nichole, I was struck by how amazing this program was, and I told her right then: “Whether I’m accepted or not, I want you to know that what you’re doing here is phenomenal, and I support it fully.” Now, as a proud participant, I can say that being part of […]
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 […]
One Month In: What Our Students Have Accomplished So Far
It’s been an exciting and productive first month for the students at West Virginia Women Work (WVWW)! From hands-on projects to earning key certifications, our students have already made incredible progress in their journey toward a fulfilling career in the skilled trades and manufacturing. Here’s a look at everything they’ve accomplished in just four short […]
Open Enrollment Sessions for Step Up for Women Construction Program – Start Building Your Future!
Are you ready to embark on a career in the construction industry? West Virginia Women Work is thrilled to invite you to our Open Enrollment Sessions this July & August for our Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Program. These sessions provide a fantastic opportunity to apply, interview, and enroll on the spot! Discover a […]
