CHARLESTON, W.Va. — West Virginia has been awarded a landmark $15 million federal Educational Opportunity Centers (EOC) grant — the largest in the nation — to expand higher education access and workforce readiness programs for adult learners across all 55 counties.
Governor Patrick Morrisey announced the award Friday, calling it a “transformative milestone” for the state’s workforce and long‑term economic growth. The grant will provide $3 million annually over five years to support the WV READY Educational Opportunity Centers initiative, operated through the West Virginia Council for Community and Technical College Education.
“West Virginia is leading the nation in delivering real opportunities to our people,” Morrisey said. “By connecting residents to career training, industry‑recognized credentials, and higher education, we’re removing barriers to employment and strengthening our talent pipeline.”
The statewide initiative unites all nine of West Virginia’s community and technical colleges — including Blue Ridge, BridgeValley, Eastern, Mountwest, New River, Pierpont, Southern, WV Northern, and WVU Parkersburg — to deliver targeted support for adults ages 19 and older, out‑of‑school youth, veterans, first‑generation students, and low‑income residents.
WV READY EOC will provide admissions coaching, high school diploma or equivalency assistance, financial literacy programs, and help completing the FAFSA. The project aims to achieve a 65% FAFSA completion rate and a 55% enrollment rate in postsecondary or apprenticeship programs among participants.
Dr. Sarah Armstrong Tucker, Chancellor of the West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission and Community and Technical College System, said the award will have a statewide impact.
“This is an investment in our people and our communities,” Tucker said. “We’re honored to receive the largest EOC award in the nation, and we’re ready to create life‑changing opportunities across West Virginia. Thousands of residents will gain the support they need to overcome obstacles and reach their goals.”
The grant is expected to significantly expand access to career pathways, credential programs, and higher education options for adults seeking new opportunities in West Virginia’s evolving workforce.
