Career transitions available

For anyone who is an experienced manufacturing professional and is interested in making the career transition into teaching, there is a new resource available which can connect you to various job opportunities throughout West Virginia.

The Marshall Advanced Manufacturing Center has launched the TrainWV Instructor Network.

This network is an online portal where individuals can submit information about their qualifications and experience.

Whenever high school, community college, technical college and trades school jobs are posted matching the candidate’s credentials, MAMC will notify them about the open positions and they can choose whether or not to apply.

It takes less than five minutes to join the TrainWV Instructor Network, according to MAMC Director Derek Scarbro.

“Schools across our region often struggle to hire qualified instructors to teach machining, welding, robotics, industrial maintenance and other manufacturing-related classes,” Scarbro explained.

“Meanwhile, those considering a new career in education often don’t know where to turn,” Scarbro continued. “The TrainWV Instructor Network is built to bridge this divide.”

Career and technical education teaching positions, particularly in high-demand fields, can be challenging to fill, as many qualified individuals are working in industry and may be unaware of teaching opportunities, according to James Coble, who works for the West Virginia Department of Education’s Office of Career and Technical Education. He stated that whenever positions remain unfilled, student access to these programs can be limited, as well as the school’s ability to launch or expand such programs, which can be delayed.

“Efforts that help connect skilled professionals with technical teaching opportunities can support the growth, development and sustainment of CTE programs by increasing awareness of pathways into education and strengthening connections between industry and the classroom,” Coble said.

Professionals who are looking for full-time or part-time positions are encouraged to join the TrainWV Instructor Network, including retirees, those who are nearing retirement age and out-of-state residents who would like to return home to West Virginia and share their knowledge and experience with the next-generation workforce, Scarbro noted.

MAMC will only share individuals’ information with schools that are hiring for manufacturing-related programs, Scarbro exclaimed. Information is available at www.trainwv.org. Included on the website are video testimonials from MAMC instructors, who share details regarding their journeys to teaching and the rewards in helping to shape the minds of today’s and tomorrow’s modern manufacturing workforce across West Virginia.

SOAR plans meeting

WEIRTON — SOAR will hold its quarterly meeting at 11:30 a.m. on Feb. 4 at Mario’s restaurant in Weirton. The meal will consist of pizza, salad and beverages.

PERI to meet

STEUBENVILLE — The Public Employees Retirement Inc., District 9 Jefferson County Chapter will hold its next meeting at 10:45 a.m. Feb. 11 at Froehlich’s Classic Corner in Steubenville. Members are encouraged to attend.

Center to take trip

WEIRTON — The Greater Weirton Senior Center is planning a trip to see the performance “Let’s Hang On: Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons Tribute,” set to take place at 1 p.m. March 27 at the Ohio Star Theater in Sugarcreek. The event is open to the public and all ages.

Those who plan on attending should be at the senior center, located at 3425 Main St. in Weirton, at 9 a.m. The cost will be $115 and includes the bus ticket, dinner and a ticket to the show. An opportunity to shop will be available following the performance, according to officials. To make a reservation, contact center Director Jeanie Smith at (304) 748-3490.

Senior center plans dance

WEIRTON — The Greater Weirton Senior Center will hold its first dance of the year March 19.

The theme will be music from the 1950s and 60s. The dance will begin at 6 p.m. and continue to 8 p.m. The cost is $10 per person or $15 per couple.

Those attending are asked to bring a covered dish or dessert to share with guests, as the center will provide the main course and drinks.

A dee jay will be on site to play music, officials noted. All are welcome to attend. Dances will continue twice a month, held on the first and third Thursday.

Play Mah Jongg at library

WELLSBURG — Visit the Brooke County Public Library each Friday from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. to take part in Mah Jongg Fridays. Those who enjoy playing can stop by and play with others who love the game.

Those who have their own set of tiles are permitted to bring them. Anyone interested in learning the game can contact library officials to ensure someone will be on site to assist. No registration is required.

For information, call (304) 737-1551.

Library offers children’s activity

WELLSBURG — Children are invited to visit the Brooke County Public Library’s Children’s Room between 10:30 a.m. and noon every Saturday to play, build, socialize and learn through a variety of toys and games which help to develop hand-eye coordination and STEAM concepts. The activity is recommended for those ages birth through 6 years of age, although all ages are welcome to attend.