West Virginia is celebrating the first anniversary of the dreamers and doers who answered the call of the Appalachians and took their First Ascent in the Mountain State just one year ago.
Inspired by the Ascend WV Program, a remote work initiative made possible by the Brad and Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), the state’s Department of Tourism, and the Wing 2 Wing Foundation, First Ascent is designed to give current students and recent graduates from Marshall and West Virginia University (WVU) the tools they need to build a thriving career in West Virginia.
“West Virginia’s greatest assets are her people, her culture, and her vast natural resources,” Brad D. Smith said. “First Ascent capitalizes on these assets by providing an important pathway for our state’s graduates to build successful and viable careers here in the Mountain State. I am confident the First Ascent program will strengthen the state’s efforts to enlist our best and brightest to remain in the state and build the foundation for a more prosperous future for all West Virginians.”
First Ascent is more than just a professional development program; it’s a movement designed to retain talent and help the state’s brightest young minds pursue opportunities in the state they know and love with confidence.
A collaborative effort by both Marshall University President Brad D. Smith and WVU President Gordon Gee, First Ascent transforms the professional landscape of West Virginia through Community, Purpose, and the Outdoors.
“For too long, we have watched as the young people our state needs for its future have packed up and left,” said Gordon Gee, President of WVU. “The love our graduates have developed for West Virginia while living and learning here during their collegiate careers is profound. This kind of post-graduation support can help them forge pathways to stay while embarking on challenging, fulfilling careers.”
The program’s inaugural cohort includes a diverse group of talented individuals who aren’t just staying in the state—but are contributing to the vibrant and dynamic communities that make West Virginia so unique.
A Unique Work-Life Balance
Participants in the program are supported by a variety of initiatives and resources, including access to free co-working spaces, outdoor recreation equipment, success coaches, and expert mentors skilled in a variety of different areas and disciplines. Participants also receive a remote worker certification and opportunities for community engagement, which creates a strong support network that emphasizes both professional and personal growth.
“Leading this program has been incredibly inspiring,” said Jessica R. Stidham, First Ascent assistant director. “Our graduates are intentionally reimagining their work environment and have opted to stay close to home; it’s a true testament to their innovative thinking and desire to build community alongside their careers. With First Ascent, they’re crafting lifestyles that integrate professional growth and personal fulfillment, and their engagement showcases the opportunities that hybrid and remote work bring to West Virginia.”
Paving a Path for What’s Next
Since its inception, First Ascent has brought together students and recent graduates with job opportunities throughout West Virginia. Not only does this facilitate deep connections within the community, but it also helps them build fulfilling careers that contribute to the economic vitality of their neighborhoods.
“When we started with Ascend, the goal was to bring people to West Virginia—either for the first time or as returners,” Brad D. Smith explained. “With First Ascent, we’re working to keep our graduates in state by positioning West Virginia as a hub for remote workers who can find success in the increasingly digital world while supporting overall state economic growth.”
Participants have established themselves in community hubs across the state, such as Morgantown, Huntington, and the Greenbrier Valley, where they receive ongoing support to thrive in their chosen fields.
“Their decision to stay and craft their careers here further strengthens local connections and underscores West Virginia as a vibrant, dynamic place to live, work, play, and stay,” Stidham added.
Ready to Take the Leap?
First Ascent has already demonstrated the power of collaboration between WVU, Marshall University, the OEDC, and the Wing 2 Wing Foundation. As the program continues to grow, it promises to remain a cornerstone of West Virginia’s efforts to retain talent and develop its workforce.
The program is open to current students and alumni of WVU and Marshall University, who can apply during the last year of their degree program or up to one year post-graduation. Applicants must be willing to live in one of six featured communities, including the Morgantown Area, Huntington Area, Eastern Panhandle, New River Gorge, Greater Elkins, and Greenbrier Valley. They must also accept a remote or hybrid full-time position for a company based inside or outside of West Virginia or have launched a business that operates remotely before applying.