West Virginia Senate President Craig Blair is a husband, father, businessman, Class V certified water specialist, master electrician and master plumber. A true jack of all trades, he decided to add public servant to his resume in 2002 when he was elected to the West Virginia House of Delegates, where he served until 2008.
Coalfield Development recently celebrated 10 years of
rebuilding Appalachia by propelling both residents and entire communities forward from the days when coal was king. The group’s goal is to unlock Appalachia’s full potential, power and purpose, not with programs and bureaucracy but with hands-on training and network building.
While the old adage says money doesn’t grow on trees, it doesn’t seem to hold the same truth for the landowners, loggers, sawmill operators and manufacturers that make up the Mountain State’s thriving forestry industry.
Drones have become a popular, commercialized concept over the last several years. Everyone has seen aerial footage taken by a drone, knows someone who owns a drone or has heard about their many uses. However, drones—also known as unmanned aerial systems (UAS)—play an important part in the engineering and field services industries, particularly in the energy sector.
The year 2020 was supposed to be a year of great adventure for my family. It happened to be the singular year where several life events collided, including my 25th wedding anniversary with my wife, Lori; my 50th birthday; my son, Alex, turning 18; and his graduation from high school. Instead of parceling out small celebrations and purchases, we discussed and decided upon a large, encompassing visit to Ireland to bring the variety of our milestones together into one wonderful trip abroad in July.
Interest in the Mountain State is growing. West Virginia is becoming more well-known for the beauty of its hills and hollows and the kindness and hospitality of its people. These factors are a big draw when it comes to attracting new tourists, residents, events, jobs and ideas to the state. With stunning outdoor scenery and historic and impressive resorts and hotels, West Virginia is open and ready for people to visit, explore and return.