For Parents

As your child’s greatest supporter, you want them healthy, happy, and successful. Construction offers a
proven path: strong pay and benefits, paid training, clear advancement, and the chance to build the places
our communities rely on—without the burden of heavy college debt. As your student nears graduation,
encourage them to explore the many careers in West Virginia’s construction industry—from skilled trades to
design, administration, and construction management.

Why Construction? (Quick Facts)

In-Demand: WV contractors need new talent to replace retirees and support major projects statewide.

Earn While You Learn: Apprenticeships & employer training pay from day one—no large student loans.

Many Paths: Trades, technology, safety, estimating, BIM, project management & more.

Real Mobility: Stackable credentials (OSHA, NCCER, AWS) lead to higher pay and leadership roles.

How You Can Help Your Student

Explore high-school CTE programs (welding, electrical, carpentry, heavy equipment, HVAC).
Tour local training centers and talk with WV apprenticeship coordinators.
Encourage certifications like OSHA-10/30, NCCER, and AWS to build a strong resume.
Seek out job shadowing, summer work, and paid pre-apprenticeships with local contractors.
Discuss long-term goals: specialize, earn more credentials, or move into leadership/management.

Pathways to a Great Career

1) High School: Take CTE classes, math, science, and safety. Join SkillsUSA or similar clubs.

2) Training: Enter a WV apprenticeship or technical program; earn entry credentials.

3) Earn & Learn: Get paid on the job, build hours, and add NCCER/AWS/OSHA credentials.

4) Advance: Specialize (e.g., welding, electrical) or grow into foreman, estimator, or project manager.

Tip: Your student can start in a trade and later pursue design or construction management—there’s no single “right” route.

Real WV Success

“My daughter chose a WV apprenticeship instead of a four-year degree. She’s earning, learning, and already moving up—without college debt.”

“After CTE welding in high school, our son landed a paid training spot and now works on major infrastructure projects close to home.”

West Virginia Resources

Explore Construction Careers for Students — quick overviews, training steps, and average pay.
WV Career & Technical Education (CTE) Programs — find high-school programs near you.
WV Apprenticeships & Employer Training — paid pathways into the trades.
Scholarships & Financial Support — Build WV, CAWV Scholarship Foundation, and more.
WV Construction Jobs — entry-level roles, internships, and apprenticeships.

Talk to a WV Career Navigator
See Career Spotlights

Need help figuring out the best path for your student? We’re here to help—reach out anytime.