Strategic initiative aims to develop critical manufacturing workforce in West Virginia
Huntington, W. Va. (Nov. 22, 2024) — Jobs for the Future (JFF), a national nonprofit that drives transformation in U.S. education and workforce systems, has announced a partnership with WVA Manufacturing, LLC and Steel of West Virginia, Inc. to develop apprenticeship programs through the Metallurgical Engineering Trades Apprenticeship & Learning (METAL) program. Led by IACMI – the Composites Institute® with support from the Defense Department’s Innovation Capability and Modernization (ICAM) Office, METAL strengthens and diversifies the U.S. metal manufacturing workforce, focusing on casting, forging, and plate rolling.
“These partnerships represent a strategic investment in America’s industrial capabilities,” said JFF Vice President of Center for Apprenticeship and Work-Based Learning Vinz Koller. “By developing skilled workers in critical materials manufacturing, we’re strengthening both local economies and national security.”
As a METAL partner, JFF leads the program’s apprenticeship efforts, providing $36,000 in funding and technical support to launch training pathways at WVA Manufacturing and Steel of West Virginia. WVA Manufacturing, in Alloy, WV, will receive $24,000 to support 10 registered apprentices and 12 pre-apprentices in trades like Industrial Maintenance Mechanics, Electricians, and Machinists.
Steel of West Virginia, based in Huntington, WV, will receive $12,000 for a pre-apprenticeship program leading to a registered apprenticeship for three participants. Partnering with Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center (MAMC), Steel of West Virginia will offer expert instruction through MAMC’s new DOL-sponsored national training center.
“West Virginia’s manufacturing sector is vital to both our national security and local economies,” said Lucinda Curry, METAL National Workforce Manager. “Through these apprenticeship programs, we’re not just creating jobs – we’re building careers and strengthening America’s industrial base. The combination of competitive wages, comprehensive training, and clear advancement pathways makes these programs particularly impactful for our communities.”
Both programs feature:
- Competitive starting wages with progressive growth
- Comprehensive classroom and hands-on training
- Clear career advancement pathways
- Support for essential tools and training equipment
- Program registration sponsored under Apprenticeship Works at MAMC
The programs specifically target critical workforce needs in Appalachia, offering local residents opportunities for high-paying careers in advanced manufacturing. WVA Manufacturing employs 250 people in Fayette County, and SWVA operates essential steel-making facilities in Cabell County.
These pilot programs serve as models for workforce development across the manufacturing sector. METAL plans to expand these structured apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs to additional facilities and occupations. The programs aim to create a blueprint for addressing critical workforce needs that can be replicated by manufacturers across the country, helping to strengthen America’s manufacturing capabilities while creating sustainable career pathways in local communities.
“These apprenticeship programs demonstrate our commitment to developing skilled manufacturing workers in regions where these opportunities are crucial for economic development,” added Koller. “By investing in workforce development, we’re helping ensure America maintains its manufacturing capabilities in critical materials and technologies.”
For more information about the METAL program or apprenticeship opportunities, visit MetalforAmerica.org.
About Jobs for the Future (JFF)
Jobs for the Future (JFF) drives transformation of the U.S. education and workforce systems to achieve equitable economic advancement for all.
About IACMI:
IACMI-The Composites Institute® is a 170-plus member community of industry, colleges and universities, national laboratories, and government agencies working together to benefit the nation’s energy, manufacturing, and economic security. IACMI is managed by the Collaborative Composite Solutions Corporation (CCS), a not-for-profit organization established by The University of Tennessee Research Foundation. A Manufacturing USA institute, IACMI is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Materials Manufacturing Technologies Office, as well as key state and industry partners.