Congratulations , Lindsey Piersol , on being named a West Virginia Executive 2024 Young Gun !
Micro-credentials are essential in order to enable individuals who want to be part of tomorrow ’ s tech workforce to keep up with the demand of modern innovation and consumer conveniences .
“ There is also a major effort underway with the expansion of micro-credentialing at the state universities ,” Bailey says . “ Micro-credentials provide more tailored training programs that can be quickly designed for specific needs .”
This expansion of micro-credentialing can be seen in the diesel technician program at BridgeValley Community and Technical College in Kanawha County .
“ The West Virginia Automotive Dealers Association and several local car dealerships have asked us to expand our diesel technician program to include automotive technology ,” says Casey Sacks , Ph . D ., president of BridgeValley . “ Part of the expansion includes certifications in electric vehicle technology so we can train new technicians on emerging technologies and people who are already working as technicians in the field can come back for the certifications that they need to stay current with the changing trends .”
In addition to providing today ’ s students with the skills they need to thrive in tomorrow ’ s tech workforce , soft skills must not be forgotten .
“ The one constant that I hear from employers that we can ’ t get away from teaching is soft skills ,” says Bailey . “ Regardless of the sector or specialization of the job , employers want employees with developed soft skills , including communication , teamwork , critical thinking and others .”
While technology is ever-changing , basic soft skills are here to stay and valuable no matter the career field .
“ The goal is to cultivate 21st century career skills , while continuing to invest in the development of life skills ,” says Smith . “ Never have the foundational skills of communication , collaboration , financial literacy and teamwork and the core aspects of a well-rounded liberal arts education been more important .”
Congratulations , Lindsey Piersol , on being named a West Virginia Executive 2024 Young Gun !
On behalf of the Board and Members of the Parkersburg-Wood County Area Development Corporation and Wood County Development Authority we want to congratulate Lindsey . We know the impact of your dedication and ability to aid and attract businesses throughout our region and are proud to see you have achieved this statewide recognition !
304-422-5650 | developwoodcountywv . com
WWW . WVEXECUTIVE . COM FALL 2023 79