This initiative goes beyond expanding access to training, it’s about building a stronger, more skilled workforce across West Virginia. By supporting practical, stackable skills, it helps prepare individuals to meet the evolving needs of local industries and communities.
Learner Pathways are designed to make it easier for students to access WVU’s industry-recognized certificate programs, like the certified safety specialist program, while offering new tools to help them succeed.
Each pathway outlines a well-defined course progression, ensuring students know exactly what to take and when.
One of the newest features is the real-time student dashboard. This allows students to track completed and remaining courses, enroll in upcoming courses and monitor progress toward certifications, all in one place.
“We’re excited about the clarity and accessibility this new platform provides. It empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey and helps them stay on track from start to finish,” Tiffany Rice, director, NRC-WVU OSHA Training Institute Education Center, said.
Students can choose from several certified safety specialist programs, including General Industry, Construction, Oil and Gas, and Maritime. With this relaunch, two new certificate programs have been added, Healthcare and Industrial Hygiene.
“The healthcare industry is the largest in West Virginia and ranks second nationally in the employment of hospital workers. We have responded to this industry by developing this new healthcare certificate program. Industrial hygiene is a field of work that focuses on identifying and controlling or eliminating environmental hazards that may cause illness or impaired health. This certificate will create a workforce that can provide this expertise across all industries,” Mark Fullen, director, WVU Safety and Health, said.
“Adding Healthcare Safety and Industrial Hygiene certificates let us support more people who want to make a difference in workplace health and safety,” Amanda Mason, assistant director, NRC-WVU OSHA Training Institute Education Center, added.
WVU Extension Safety and Health’s certificate programs continue to deliver outstanding results, with students reporting career advancements, promotions, raises and successful job placements after earning their certifications.
To learn more or explore the new learner pathways and available programs, visit Mountaineer Micro Academy.
If you want to learn more about WVU Extension, visit extension.wvu.edu or follow @WVUExtension on LinkedIn, Facebook, YouTube, X and Instagram.
-WVU-
an/10/06/2025
MEDIA CONTACT: Aden Nickerson
Communications Specialist
WVU Division for Land-Grant Engagement
304-293-7606;
aden.nickerson@mail.wvu.edu