West Virginia Apprenticeship Summit

Ready to dive into the world of apprenticeships? This in-person event is your chance to connect, learn, and grow with others passionate about workforce development. Whether you're an employer, apprentice, or just curious, you'll find plenty of great info and networking opportunities.

The location is 1900 Kanawha Blvd E, Bldg 3, 1st Floor Conference Room Charelston WV, 25305.

Please allow time to go through security. Free parking is located at Laidley Field parking area.

• Date: April 30, 2026, 9:00-11:00 am
• Location: On Capitol Campus, Building 3, 1st floor Conference Room
• Refreshments: Coffee, water, and light snacks will be provided

9:00 AM: Welcome and Introduction

Speaker: Nicholas Nunnery, Apprenticeship Program Coordinator, WV Div. of Economic Development

9:05 AM – 9:15 AM: What is an Apprenticeship?

Topic: Determining what an apprenticeship is and how it differs from other training models.

Speaker: Michael Ferrari, USDOL West Virginia State Director of Apprenticeships

9:15 AM – 9:30 AM: Apprenticeship Education and Training

Topic: Explore training providers and resources that satisfy the Related Training Instruction of Apprenticeships

Speakers: Heather Cooper, Director of Apprenticeships (Marshal Advanced Manufacturing Center); Tiffany Ellis Williams Director of Workforce and Economic Development (West Virginia Community & Technical College)

9:30 AM – 9:45 AM: Funding Opportunities

Topic: Discover funding streams (WFWV, GGWP, SNAP) that can help to cover the cost of training apprentices.

Speakers: State Experts , Jonathan Compton Assistant Director , Workforce Development (WFWV), Nicholas Nunnery (GGWP), Ashley Puffenbarger Department of Human Services Program Manager (SNAP E&T)

9:45 AM – 9:55 AM: Coffee Break

9:55 AM – 10:05 AM: Panel Discussion: Energy Technology Oriented Discussion

Topic: How is the apprenticeship model being applied in the Energy Industry?

Panelists: Clayburne Stevens Program Manager(Office of Energy), Tammy Stanford Consumer Programs Manager (AEP)

10:20 AM – 10:35 AM: Panel Discussion: Non-Traditional Apprenticeships

Topic: Examine the benefits for companies adopting the apprenticeship model in non-traditional roles.

Panelist: Dave Wertz VP of Manufacturing (Blenko Glass Factory)

10:35 AM – Conclusion: Closing Remarks

Speaker: Governor Patrick Morrisey (Invited)

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Host or Publisher WV Division of Economic Development