Parkersburg, W.Va. (November 17, 2021) – West Virginia University at Parkersburg has launched a second apprenticeship program in Cybersecurity and Network Administration through the Department of Labor (DOL). The program will train and offer students wages at Woodcraft while earning their degrees.

The apprenticeship program is the next step for Computer Information Technology students who obtained their associate degree and worked with their employer through WVU Parkersburg’s Learn and Earn program. As an apprentice, they will continue their paid mentorship with on-the-job training while earning a Bachelor of Applied Technology degree.

“It is such a natural bridge from Learn and Earn to the DOL apprenticeship program that we anticipate more companies taking part in such a collaborative, seamless program,” said Samantha Copen, WVU Parkersburg Learn and Earn coordinator.

Apprentices will work one year with Woodcraft as computer support specialists. As computer support specialists, students will provide technical assistance to clients, resolve computer hardware and software problems, install operating systems and more.

“Woodcraft is excited to continue its partnership with WVU Parkersburg and proud to support local talent in the Mid-Ohio Valley,” said Amanda Fowler, Woodcraft Supply IT director.

In addition to gaining on-the-job training, students who graduate from Department of Labor (DOL) apprenticeships earn industry-recognized credentials.

WVU Parkersburg also offers an information technology DOL apprenticeship with Ntiva. The college is the only institution in the state to provide DOL apprenticeships in this career field.

To learn more about Information Technology apprenticeships through WVU Parkersburg, please contact Samantha Copen at samantha.copen@wvup.edu or 304-424-8250.