FAIRMONT — West Virginia will receive $9 million in federal funding over five years to expand college and career preparation services for students in 20 counties, Gov. Patrick Morrisey announced.
The funding is expected to serve 3,600 students annually through a new initiative designed to help young people prepare for higher education, workforce training and future employment, according to a statement released from the governor’s office.
“We’re bringing new jobs and investment into West Virginia at a historic pace, and we need to make sure our young people are prepared to take advantage of those opportunities,” Morrisey said. “This investment will open doors for thousands of students who haven’t had access to these services before, helping them build successful careers and futures right here in West Virginia.”
The U.S. Department of Education’s Talent Search Program will fund Advancing College Education in West Virginia, or ACE WV. The West Virginia Higher Education Policy Commission will lead the initiative in partnership with six universities.
The program will extend services to communities that have not previously had access to these resources. Beginning in sixth grade, participating students will receive tutoring, academic advising, college preparation assistance and guidance on financial aid, apprenticeships and workforce training.
In Marion County, 390 students from 10 middle and high schools are expected to participate.
Students also will be able to use ACE Wallets, digital records intended to track their academic accomplishments, skills and credentials as they progress through school and prepare for college or employment.
“West Virginia has some of the hardest-working and most talented people in America, and we’re creating new opportunities for them to succeed,” Morrisey said. “I want our kids to have every opportunity to earn a great living without having to leave the state they call home. That’s how we strengthen our workforce, make life more affordable and build a stronger West Virginia.”
The initiative comes as West Virginia works to prepare its workforce for anticipated economic growth. More than 19,000 jobs are projected to be associated with approximately $96 billion in announced private-sector investments since October 2025, according to the governor’s office.