CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Governor Patrick Morrisey has announced the creation of “Tourism Works,” an online education program designed to enhance hospitality skills and training among the state’s tourism workforce and everyday West Virginians.
The announcement was made at the state capitol with the support of more than 200 tourism and hospitality industry professionals to celebrate the industry’s record-setting $8.7 billion annual economic impact.
Morrisey said tourism is a primary component of the state's economy, and he intends to help lead the state in its growth.
"As governor, one of my top priorities is to grow our economy, our population, and our workforce,” the governor said.
“Our tourism and hospitality industry is one of the best in the country, and it will be a crucial part of West Virginia’s economic future. The new Tourism Works program builds on our welcoming and friendly culture, ensuring every visitor to West Virginia feels at home in the Mountain State.”
Chelsea Ruby, tourism secretary for the state, thanked the many partners who have joined forces to build the state tourism industry into a force with which to be reckoned.
“Thanks to Governor Morrisey, the West Virginia Legislature, the department of education, and all of our amazing partners across the state, the future of tourism has never looked brighter,” Ruby said.
“This sector currently includes 70,000 hospitality and tourism jobs in West Virginia with an expected 21,000 job openings yearly. The Tourism Works program is a wonderful resource for anyone looking to gain experience in a thriving industry.”
Created in partnership with the West Virginia Department of Tourism and Blue Ridge Community and Technical College, the free online course gives students the chance to earn an hour of college credit from Blue Ridge.
All West Virginians, not just those seeking college credit, are encouraged to enroll in the course, which highlights its many regions, cultures, and small businesses.
Announced at the state's Tourism Day event at the capitol, more than 200 tourism and history partners and students from the Nicholas County Career and Technical Center and Monongalia County Technical Education Center were in attendance. The two schools highlighted their workforce training programs by serving pastries, West Virginia-roasted coffee, and barbeque—all made by students.
To sign up for the course, click here.
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