The Workforce Investment Board of the Mid-Ohio Valley oversees the Workforce West Virginia office, which provides resources for both employers and job-seekers.

PARKERSBURG — The past year was a busy one for the Workforce Investment Board of the Mid-Ohio Valley, a resource for both job seekers and employers. “The concept behind the board is that people should be able to come to one spot and access training needs,” said Joyce Okes, program director. “We are a coordinating force between multiple partners that meet the needs of job seekers and employers.” The board serves nine counties in West Virginia and oversees WorkForce West Virginia, an organization that provides many training programs, including computer training, job readiness, technical training and entrepreneurial training. “It’s been a busy year. A lot of people have been taking advantage of training programs,” said Okes. “And generally speaking, people do find success after they’ve completed a training program. They become more employable. The job market is slow right now, but still, those people who have taken advantage of training are more competitive.