In a January 2017 survey by the Associated General Contractors of America, 73 percent of skilled-trade businesses had a difficult time finding qualified workers and 55 percent identified worker shortages as a bigger concern than federal regulations (41 percent) and low infrastructure investment (18 percent). Experts mostly feel that the problem is only getting worse, and that if the reality doesn’t begin to change soon, the U.S. economy is in serious trouble. Read the Full Story >>
Education
State Apprenticeship Program Supports Working Women
Many people think of construction or manufacturing jobs being held by men, but with the help of a nonprofit founded in 2000—West Virginia Women Work—women can now receive free apprenticeships to help them train and secure employment in nontraditional occupations. Read the Full Story >>
Shepherd Students Gain Valuable Internship Experience Via New Program
Students will have more opportunity to work in paid internships on campus, thanks to a new initiative by Shepherd University’s College of Business that was announced during an event on Saturday, November 4. Read the Full Story >>
Fostering a More Vibrant Musical Community
The Shepherdstown School of Music formally opened in the summer of 2013 with a Rock and Jazz Jam Camp, which boasted around 15 kids—teaching basic elements of Rock and Jazz performance, as well as improvisation. Read the Full Story >>
Scholarship Program Allows JC High Schoolers Opportunity to Invest in Themselves
Arthena Sewell Roper, Cultural Diversity Facilitator for Jefferson County Schools, recently announced the development of an initiative called the Re-Imagine Scholarship—a life-skill enrichment project involving students from both Jefferson and Washington High Schools. Read the Full Story >>
