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 […]

 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 to Get Started with an Apprenticeship: A Step-by-Step Guide

Starting an apprenticeship is a powerful way to gain valuable skills, earn while you learn, and set yourself on a stable career path, especially in skilled trades. But knowing how to get started can feel overwhelming if you’re new to the process. Here’s a practical guide to help you navigate each step on the road […]

Manufacturing: A Look at How the Industry Has Evolved

When many people think of manufacturing, they often picture outdated assembly lines, repetitive tasks, and dirty, unsafe working conditions. However, manufacturing has undergone significant changes over the last two decades. Today’s industry is far more advanced, cleaner, and safer than it was 20 years ago, offering a wide variety of roles that go beyond traditional […]

Why Skilled Trades Offer a Bright Future for Women

The national outlook for skilled trades presents a compelling case for increased participation by women. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, many skilled trades are experiencing growth rates that outpace the national average for all occupations. For example, electricians, plumbers, and HVAC technicians are seeing projected growth rates of 8% to 14% from […]

How Can Women Succeed in Male-Dominated Trades?

Entering a male-dominated field can feel challenging, but it’s also an opportunity to build a rewarding career, especially in skilled trades. At West Virginia Women Work, we’ve seen firsthand how women not only succeed but thrive in these industries. With the right mindset, preparation, and support, women can forge a strong path in trades like […]

How Do Skilled Trades and Manufacturing Compare to Other Career Paths for Women?

For many women, choosing a career can feel like navigating a long list of possibilities—from traditional office jobs to roles in healthcare or education. However, two options that are gaining significant attention are careers in the skilled trades and manufacturing. While these fields have traditionally been male-dominated, more women are discovering the excellent opportunities for […]

What Are the Best Trades for Women?

Skilled trades offer women a path to rewarding, stable careers with opportunities for growth and financial independence. More and more women are discovering that the trades not only provide solid job prospects but also the chance to build a career that makes a real impact in their communities. At West Virginia Women Work (WVWW), we […]