BUILDING A SKILLED WORKFORCE
The West Virginia Hardwood Alliance Zone (WVHAZ) is an ideal location for both businesses and individuals looking to further their education and develop workforce skills. With a wide array of educational facilities nearby, including vocational-technical schools, 2-year colleges, and 4-year universities, the WVHAZ provides easy access to high-quality training programs that can help grow a skilled workforce in the hardwood industry and beyond.
ACCESS TO TOP EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS
The region boasts a network of institutions designed to equip students and workers with the skills needed to thrive in today’s economy. From specialized training in woodworking and manufacturing to degree programs in business, engineering, and environmental sciences, the options available within 50 miles of the WVHAZ ensure a broad range of learning opportunities.
The WV Invests Program covers tuition to any state Community and Technical College (CTC) for a certificate or associate’s degree in an in-demand field.
Vocational and Technical Schools
These institutions provide hands-on training in specific industries such as forestry, carpentry, welding, and heavy equipment operation. Students gain practical skills that directly apply to the needs of local industries, including the growing hardwood sector.
Fayette Institute of Technology
300 West Oyler Avenue | Oak Hill, WV 25840
boe.faye.k12.wv.us/o/fit
Fred W. Eberle Technical Center
208 Morton Avenue | Buckhannon, WV 26201
fetc.edu
United Technical Center
251 Marietta Street | Clarksburg, WV 26301
unitedtechnicalcenterwv.com
Monongalia County Technical Education Center
1000 Mississippi Street | Morgantown, WV 26501
mtec.mono.k12.wv.us
South Branch Career & Technical Center
401 Pierpont Street | Petersburg, WV 26847
southbranchtech.org
Somerset County Technology Center
281 Technology Drive | Somerset, PA 15501
sctc.net
Community Colleges
Local community colleges offer 2-year degree programs in fields like business management, industrial technology, and sustainable forestry. These schools play a crucial role in offering accessible, affordable education to residents of the region, preparing them for careers in advanced manufacturing and natural resource management.
Eastern WV Community & Technical College
316 Eastern Drive | Moorefield, WV 26836
easternwv.edu
Mountain Gateway Community College
1000 College Drive | Clifton Forge, VA 24422
mgcc.edu
Garrett Community College
687 Mosser Road | McHenry, MD 21541
garrettcollege.edu
Pierpont Community & Technical College
500 Galliher Drive | Fairmont, WV 26554
pierpont.edu
New River Community and Technical
6 Locations throughout WV
newriver.edu
4-Year Universities
For those interested in pursuing a bachelor’s degree or higher education, the WVHAZ area is home to several universities that offer comprehensive programs in environmental science, business administration, and industrial engineering. These programs prepare students for leadership roles in a variety of industries, including those that support the region’s vital hardwood sector.
Concord University
1000 Vermillion Street | Athens, WV 24712
concord.edu
James Madison University
800 South Main Street | Harrisonburg, VA 22807
jmu.edu
Davis & Elkins College
100 Campus Drive | Elkins, WV 26241
dewv.edu
West Virginia Wesleyan College
59 College Avenue | Buckhannon, WV 26201
wvwc.edu
Glenville State University
200 High Street | Glenville, WV 26351
glenville.edu
Waynesburg University
51 West College Street | Waynesburg, PA 15370
waynesburg.edu
Fairmont State University
1201 Locust Avenue | Fairmont, WV 26554
fairmontstate.edu
West Virginia University
Morgantown, WV 26506
wvu.edu
WV School of Osteopathic Medicine
400 Lee Street | North Lewisburg, WV 24901
wvsom.edu
Frostburg State University
101 Braddock Road | Frostburg, MD 21532
frostburg.edu
A HUB FOR EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
By being located near such a diverse array of educational facilities, the WVHAZ allows both employers and employees to invest in the future of their businesses and careers. Whether through vocational certification or a full academic degree, the zone makes it easier for businesses to recruit local talent that is well-prepared for the unique challenges and opportunities of the hardwood industry.
WHY EDUCATION IN THE WVHAZ MATTERS FOR YOUR BUSINESS
Skilled Workforce: Access to a highly trained workforce is crucial for any business, particularly those in manufacturing and resource management. By being located near such a broad array of educational institutions, businesses in the WVHAZ are well-positioned to recruit top talent.
Workforce Development: Whether you’re an individual looking to build a career or a company seeking to train your employees, the WVHAZ offers numerous resources to help you meet your workforce needs.
Industry-Relevant Education: With training programs focused on woodworking, sustainable forestry, and advanced manufacturing, students and workers in the WVHAZ can gain the skills necessary to thrive in the hardwood industry.
The West Virginia Hardwood Alliance Zone continues to grow as a hub for both industry and education. With its diverse range of educational options, it’s the ideal location for those looking to advance their careers and businesses in the heart of the state’s hardwood region.