Who We Are
West Virginia Women Work (WVWW) is a statewide 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping individuals secure quality employment and build stronger communities across West Virginia. For over 20 years, we’ve helped people take the next step toward a stable, good-paying career.
Our programs offer hands-on training, career readiness, mentoring, and job placement support. Whether someone is switching careers, starting fresh, or ready to earn a living wage, we provide practical pathways to real opportunities — especially in fields that need skilled, reliable workers.
While our roots are in helping women enter high-demand fields like construction and manufacturing, our programs are open to all who are ready to work hard and build a future. We’ve supported more than 1,000 West Virginians through job coaching, skills training, and career exploration workshops.
In addition to supporting job seekers, WVWW partners with employers, unions, and training providers to help solve workforce challenges. Through this network, we’re able to connect qualified candidates with opportunities and help employers find and keep the talent they need.
Carol Phillips
Chief Executive Officer
Hi, I’m Carol! I was born and raised by a strong single mom in rural West Virginia. I have firsthand experience of the educational & economic roadblocks that Appalachian women face on their journey to economic independence.
After college, I worked in nontraditional careers ranging from poultry processing, landscaping, environmental consulting, and as a manager at a natural gas company. In these roles, I had the opportunity to work on various land development and construction projects. After a 16-year career as an environmental scientist, I stepped forward to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of WVWW in 2021.
I’m passionate about helping people gain the skills and confidence to move forward in life. It’s a privilege to be part of a team with a long track record of helping West Virginians build better futures through hands-on training and career preparation. I’m certified in Mental Health First Aid & Safety, and outside of work, I enjoy reading, spending time outdoors, and eating food I didn’t cook. The WVWW Core Value that resonates most with me is Education. I believe in giving individuals the tools they need to succeed in school, at work, and in life.
Dara Britton
Chief Financial Officer
Hi, I’m Dara! I am the Chief Financial Officer at West Virginia Women Work. I grew up on the family farm in Preston County and that is still my happy place. For 20 years I have worked in various accounting roles in the non-profit, local government, and public sectors. I most enjoyed my time working at a small non-profit and decided to follow my bliss and join the WVWW Team in 2022.
I’m passionate about helping individuals reach their goals, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that’s made that possible for over two decades. At WVWW, my focus is on ensuring the financial health of our programs, so we can continue serving communities across the state.
I enjoy fishing, traveling to wine country, and a perfectly done steak paired with Italian red wine. The WVWW Core Value that speaks to me most is Enrichment. I believe in encouraging people to explore education, career options, and meaningful life experiences that help them grow.
Kiesha Hines
Northern Regional Coordinator
Hi, I’m Kiesha! I am the Northern Regional Coordinator at West Virginia Women Work. I am a West Virginia native and worked in healthcare prior to making the life-changing decision to enroll in the Step Up for Women Construction program in 2017.
During the program, I discovered a passion for helping others build confidence and skills. I accepted the position as coordinator for the Step Up for Women Advanced Manufacturing Program and established our Bridgeport location. I hold a certification as a forklift trainer and am a LEAN On Me WV Facilitator.
I’m a proud mom who would do anything for her kids, and I absolutely adore my granddaughter. I enjoy traveling and treating myself to a good crab leg dinner. The WVWW Core Value that most resonates with me is Opportunity. I believe in opening doors for others and helping people access the tools they need to succeed in work and life.
Nichole Stephenson
Southern Regional Coordinator
Hi, I’m Nichole! I am the Southern Regional Coordinator and First Aid/CPR Trainer at West Virginia Women Work. I am a Philadelphia transplant that fell in love with the Mountain State. I worked in healthcare prior to making the life-changing decision to enroll in the Step Up for Women Construction program in 2018.
During the program, I discovered a passion for helping people build confidence and expand their skill sets. I stepped into the role of coordinator for our construction pre-apprenticeship, where I’ve had the privilege of teaching hundreds of students. I’m an EPA-certified Lead Supervisor and hold multiple FEMA certificates in areas like volunteer management and safety.
My sons and my grandkids are my world. I also enjoy cooking, travel, and exploring folklore — especially anything Krampus. The WVWW Core Value that most resonates with me is Empowerment. My goal is to help others recognize their own potential and pursue opportunities that propel them forward in their careers and personal growth.
Kimberly Merrell
Training Coordinator
Marlynda Arnett
Program Innovation leader
Hi, I’m Marlynda, and I’m proud to serve as the Program Innovation Leader for West Virginia Women Work. I was born and raised in Logan County, WV, where stories of Blair Mountain and conversations about “the workin’ man,” labor rights, and union pride shaped how I see the world. That foundation instilled in me a deep respect for the trades — especially the importance of safety and fair standards on the job. Today, as a proud union member, I’m committed to helping build a workforce where folks are treated fairly, trained well, and equipped to succeed.
My own nontraditional path started with degrees in graphics technology from Fairmont State University and Pierpont Community and Technical College. I studied everything from drafting to construction materials. After college, I worked for years as the art director of several collector car magazine titles — and during that time, I also earned my CDL. It’s an unusual combination, but it reflects how I’ve always approached life: hands-on, hardworking, and open to new challenges.
The WVWW Core Value that resonates most with me is Empowerment. Whether through PartnerUp, SkillUp, or workforce support, I work to help people build the skills, confidence, and direction they need to move forward — wherever they’re starting from.
Heather Shockney
Chief Operations Officer
Hello! I’m Heather, the Chief Operations Officer at West Virginia Women Work (WVWW). I focus on building strong systems and opportunities that help individuals gain the skills and confidence to succeed in high-demand, well-paying careers across the skilled trades.
My professional journey has taken me from software development to nonprofit operations, blending technology, storytelling, and workforce development into one mission: helping people earn a living wage and build stronger communities.
At WVWW, I oversee the operations that drive our mission, including digital systems like Salesforce and Microsoft 365, program coordination, website management, and storytelling strategy. I enjoy using technology to make our work more efficient, transparent, and measurable so that funders, partners, and the public can clearly see our impact across West Virginia.
My background in writing, social media, and photography helps us highlight real success stories and connect with employers who share our commitment to creating meaningful career pathways.
Outside of work, I enjoy hiking, exploring new waterfalls, and spending time outdoors. The WVWW Core Value that resonates most with me is Opportunity — the belief that everyone deserves a practical path forward and the tools to build a stable, successful life.
John McBrayer
Hub Success Coach
Our Board
Millie Karlin, Board Chair
Adrianne Dering, Vice Chair
Larissa Kirk, Treasurer
Amanda Ray, Secretary
Barbara Fleishauer, Member
Eva Segert Tauger, Member
Carissa Hansen, Member
Jessica Raines, Member
Lori Hostuttler, Member
Carol Phillips, Non-voting Member
