Why Pre-Apprenticeship Matters More Than Ever
Everyone agrees we need more skilled workers. Across West Virginia and beyond, employers are looking for dependable, trained individuals who can step onto a jobsite ready to work. Apprenticeship programs are a great solution, but they are not always the first step. In many cases, they are the second. That is where pre-apprenticeship comes in. […]
Why Giving Your Time Matters: A Volunteer’s Role in Workforce Development
In a world where the job market is constantly evolving, one thing remains the same: people need people. At West Virginia Women Work, we see every day how powerful mentorship and volunteer support can be in helping individuals transition into living-wage jobs, especially in the skilled trades. During National Volunteer Month, we want to highlight […]
Voice From The Field: Carole Howard
What is your name, and what do you do? My name is Carole Howard, and I am the North Central Step Up for Women Construction Training Coordinator for West Virginia Women Work. What were you doing before you joined West Virginia Women Work? I was a graphic designer at City Neon Incorporated. Most people think […]
Celebrating 25 Years of Impact: Help Us Build the Future with $25 for 25 Years
For 25 years, West Virginia Women Work has been helping individuals across our state build the skills, confidence, and connections they need to succeed in high-wage, high-demand careers in the skilled trades. From construction sites to manufacturing floors, our graduates are powering industries that keep our communities strong. This year, as we mark 25 years […]
Step Up for Women Construction Pre-apprenticeship Alumni: Cassidy Jarrett
What were you doing before enrolling in Step Up Construction For Women? Nothing. I was working at fast food restaurants. My mom works in construction, so I thought about entering the trades because of her example and because I am interested in the work as well. How did you find out about Step Up? What […]
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 […]
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 […]
