The West Virginia Department of Human Services (DoHS), through its Bureau for Family Assistance (BFA), is urging recipients of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and SNAP Employment and Training (SNAP E&T) to consider applying for the West Virginia Women Work (WVWW) Step Up for Women Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship program.
The upcoming Spring 2024 session will commence on February 26 in Charleston. This 10-week, employment-focused pre-apprenticeship program aims to prepare women aged 18 and above for entry-level roles and apprenticeships within the advanced manufacturing sector. Participants will receive hands-on training, including operating high-tech machinery used in industries such as medical, aerospace, pharmaceuticals, and automotive. The program also provides opportunities to obtain relevant licenses and certifications.
“Our continued collaboration with WV Women Work creates tremendous opportunities for West Virginia women,” stated Janie Cole, DoHS Bureau for Family Assistance Commissioner. “It is our hope that the Advanced Manufacturing Pre-Apprenticeship program will help equip women with the training and tools needed to find rewarding careers and make meaningful changes for themselves and their families.”
Since 2017, DoHS has partnered with WVWW to assist women in exploring, training for, and securing employment in non-traditional fields, particularly skilled trades. The WVWW Step Up initiative offers a tuition-free training experience aimed at preparing women for entry-level industry positions and registered apprenticeships. Notably, Step Up holds the distinction of being the only Pre-Apprenticeship in West Virginia endorsed by the U.S. Department of Labor.
Interested SNAP/SNAP E&T clients are encouraged to discuss application procedures with their DoHS county office caseworker or visit westvirginiawomenwork.org/step-up-manufacturing to apply online.
