Generation West Virginia Underscores Focus on Workforce Development 

Generation West Virginia (GWV) is proud to announce the redefinition of its mission statement, representing a significant milestone in the organization’s commitment to the professional growth and success of young adults in West Virginia. The newly defined mission statement reads as follows: “Generation West Virginia equips young West Virginians with key skills and career opportunities, ensuring their ability to thrive in the Mountain State.”

The GWV Fellowship Class of 2023 gather at the West Virginia Capitol Building during their graduation ceremony. The GWV Fellowship is a leadership development training program for young professionals.

The decision was fueled by the idea that the mission needed to catch up to GWV’s ongoing work. The organization’s leadership and board identified the necessity for an updated mission that was direct, highlighting the organization’s dedication to workforce development as it pertains to young adults.

“By actively shaping the young workforce, Generation West Virginia isn’t just creating opportunities, it’s steering West Virginia forward,” said Alex Weld, executive director of Generation West Virginia. “At the end of the day, our work comes down to this: the belief that every young adult should have access to the tools, resources, and connections needed to make a home for their dreams here.”

Alex Weld addresses the crowd at the ACT Now Coalition press conference for the EDA Build Back Better Regional Challenge. Generation West Virginia is leading workforce development efforts in the coalition. 

Generation West Virginia has always been committed to supporting young West Virginians as they pursue meaningful careers in the state. The organization provides a range of programs and initiatives designed to provide that support as individuals navigate their career paths. These include job search assistance, job training, and professional development opportunities.

For Weld, the heart of Generation West Virginia lies in the idea that young adults should not believe they need to leave the state in order to find good opportunities. Through its workforce initiatives, Generation West Virginia is reshaping the narrative that success is only within reach for those who choose to leave.

NewForce students from Cohort 8, with instructor Tommy Spurlock, gather for professional development day in Huntington, WV. NewForce is GWV’s six-month, fully-remote, tuition-free coding school for West Virginia residents. 

“As Generation West Virginia continues to expand its programming, we’re proud to support an increasing number of young adults in West Virginia,” said GWV Board Chair Candace Nelson. “Clarifying our mission to reflect our commitment to empowering the state’s workforce marks a significant next step in our growth. ” 

The organization’s new mission statement is a testament to GWV’s commitment to supporting the next generation of West Virginians. As Generation West Virginia propels forward with Weld at the helm, it beckons young adults to join in crafting a story where success isn’t just achieved, it’s pioneered.

 

About Generation West Virginia

Generation West Virginia equips young West Virginians with key skills and career opportunities, ensuring their ability to thrive in the Mountain State. By connecting young adults with resources, opportunities, and each other through their workforce development initiatives, GWV is committed to building a stronger, more prosperous West Virginia for generations to come. To learn more, visit www.generationwv.org.