Generation West Virginia’s Workforce Initiatives
By Jen Iskow
Young people are critical to the future of West Virginia. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, Millennials and Generation Z will make up more than 60% of the country’s labor force by 2030.
West Virginia faces several obstacles that hinder its ability to attract, retain and advance its young workforce, including having the second-lowest workforce participation rate in the country; a declining number of residents in the 18-44 age range; the lowest percentage of higher education attainment nationwide; and the highest rate of young adults living in poverty.
Generation West Virginia (GWV) is determined to help change this narrative. By investing in young people and equipping them with the tools, opportunities and support they need, GWV is creating a thriving environment for the next generation of leaders.
“By fostering innovation, building connections and addressing critical barriers, we are creating a future where young West Virginians can see their brightest opportunities at home rather than elsewhere,” says Alex Weld, executive director of GWV.
One of GWV’s flagship initiatives is NewForce, a five-month, fully remote and free tech-training program designed to prepare West Virginians for high-demand careers in technology. This program was a resounding success, placing graduates at top tech companies such as Rev.io, Core10, IBM and the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission. In 2024, GWV added a data analytics training component to the program, responding to West Virginia’s evolving job market. This move reflects the growing demand for skilled data analysts across industries like health care, education and government. With career development support, mock interviews with industry pros, personalized job placement guidance and an industry-recognized curriculum, graduates leave ready to tackle the tech world.
The GWV Fellowship is a six-month professional development program that equips young professionals with the skills and connections needed to thrive in their careers. Each year, the fellowship supports up to 30 participants from across the state. In 2024, the fellowship engaged young adults from 14 counties, providing them with mentorship, networking opportunities and training to help them advance in their careers. A 2023 survey revealed that 100% of fellows expanded their networks, developed career-ready skills and built meaningful connections within West Virginia.
“The GWV Fellowship allowed me to gain a better understanding of myself and my strengths and leadership qualities,” says GWV Fellowship graduate Maria Miller-Blatt. “From soft skills development, like giving and receiving feedback, to sessions about the economic development of our communities and participation in some of the state’s largest tourism draws, this program has covered it all.”
West Virginia’s talent pipeline gains momentum through the Career Connector, GWV’s workforce development hub. This program helps job seekers with career navigation, résumé guidance and interview preparation; connects employers with a robust network of young talent; and reached more than 100,000 people in the last quarter of 2024.
The Career Connector directly impacted 550 individuals in 2024, solidifying its role as a critical bridge between West Virginia’s employers and its emerging workforce.
In an increasingly digital world, reliable internet access is non-negotiable. GWV works closely with the State Broadband Office to secure funding, improve access and promote equity. Since 2022, GWV’s grant-writing and project management efforts have led to $68 million in broadband investments, and by 2024, GWV had directly impacted more than 30,000 households in 15 counties through broadband initiatives. Additionally, in partnership with 18 counties, GWV developed
digital equity plans to address unique community needs.
In 2024 alone, GWV’s programs reached 38 counties and impacted the lives of more than 5,000 West Virginians. Through its career development, broadband expansion and workforce retention efforts, GWV directly equipped 848 young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive. These initiatives address the state’s most pressing challenges, ensuring young people see West Virginia as a place where they can build meaningful careers and lives.
As GWV enters 2025, its programming is poised to continue making a difference. Members of the current fellowship cohort, which began in May, are already tackling key projects and receiving mentorship from industry leaders. Meanwhile, the expansion of NewForce’s data analytics training promises to prepare even more West Virginians for tech-driven roles. GWV’s vision is clear: create a state where young people can not only envision their futures but actively build them.
Editor’s Note:
Information in the second paragraph of this story came from the following sources: World Population Review, West Virginia Economic Outlook 2021-2025, WIOA State Plan and Kids Count Data Center Photo Library.
Charting a Course for West Virginia’s Workforce
On May 8, 2025, the Pathways to Progress Conference brought together a dynamic group of individuals, businesses and organizations at the Charleston Marriott Town Center. Hosted by Generation West Virginia (GWV), this full-day event empowered attendees to shape the state’s workforce future.
Key topics included career pathway development, retaining young talent, inclusive hiring practices and workforce policy. Special sessions also highlighted strategies for hiring and supporting individuals in recovery or those previously incarcerated.
West Virginia’s workforce is at a pivotal point, and the Pathways to Progress Conference fills a critical need by bringing together the voices that will shape our state’s economic future. This event is more than a conference. It’s a collaborative platform for exploring innovative workforce solutions, retaining young talent and creating inclusive pathways for all West Virginians to thrive.
