Sixth Cohort of Skilled Trades Scholars Honored in Constellium–WVU Parkersburg Signing Ceremony
Sixth Cohort of Skilled Trades Scholars Honored in Constellium–WVU Parkersburg Signing Ceremony
Parkersburg, W.Va. (June 4, 2025) —Local leaders, state representatives, students, and proud families gathered at Constellium in Ravenswood, W.Va., on Monday, June 2, to celebrate the sixth cohort of recipients in the Constellium Skilled Trades Scholarship Program—a transformative partnership between Constellium and WVU Parkersburg—during the annual Skilled Trades Signing Ceremony.
The event, held at Constellium’s facility in Jackson County, was emceed by Brian McCallie, Vice President of Operations. McCallie welcomed attendees and introduced a full lineup of guest speakers, including representatives from the offices of Senator Shelley Moore Capito, Senator Jim Justice, and Congresswoman Carol Miller, as well as WVU Parkersburg President Dr. Torie Jackson and Ripley Mayor Carolyn Rader.
“This program provides students with a debt-free associate degree in applied science and a guaranteed job at Constellium as an electrician or millwright,” said McCallie. “It’s a win-win for the community and the company.”
The Skilled Trades Scholarship Program is a collaboration between Constellium and WVU Parkersburg that provides scholarships to selected students to help them earn a college degree and gain employment in a skilled trades job. Students may choose to complete an Associate of Applied Science degree in Multi-Craft Technology or Reliability and Maintenance Technology offered through WVU Parkersburg. After completing their associate degree, students will commit to a minimum of five years employment with Constellium as part of the scholarship requirements.
The program, now in its sixth year, draws students from across the region through a competitive selection process that includes a rigorous application and interview. Students not only graduate debt-free but also enter the workforce with a secured position at Constellium upon program completion, helping to retain skilled talent in West Virginia.
Senator Shelley Moore Capito, in a recorded video message, praised the program’s continued growth and recognized Melina Worley as the second female scholar to join the cohort.
“This remarkable program fills a critical need while encouraging students to stay in West Virginia,” she said.
Ripley Mayor Carolyn Rader highlighted the program’s economic and educational impact and surprised Constellium leadership with a Key to the City for their ongoing investment in the region.
“Constellium is helping shape not only careers but the future of our community,” she said.
WVU Parkersburg President Dr. Torie Jackson emphasized the college’s commitment to student success and highlighted recent investments in the Jackson County Center, including nearly $2 million in renovations and new equipment to support advanced manufacturing training.
“You’re not just gaining skills—you’re becoming part of something bigger,” said Dr. Chris Treadway, Vice Chancellor of West Virginia’s Community and Technical College System. “The work you’ll do will not only serve your community but will reach beyond—literally to space.”
The ceremony concluded with students signing official agreements marking the start of their academic and professional journeys. The Class of 2025 includes Melina Worley, Matthew Thomas, Brock Jones, Zakkary Jordan, and Garrett Brown—all of whom now hold the key to a future filled with opportunity.
