Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Thursday, April 30, 2026.

#1 – From CSR WIRE - Forest partnership delivers climate and community impact

A partnership between Chemours and the American Forest Foundation is delivering measurable results in West Virginia, combining climate action with community investment.

Through the Family Forest Carbon Program, more than 100 landowners and over 15,500 acres of forestland have been enrolled — more than doubling initial goals. The program is expected to store an additional 250,000 metric tons of carbon emissions over the next 20 years, supporting both environmental sustainability and economic resilience in participating communities.

Leaders say the initiative demonstrates how conservation efforts can create real benefits for both the environment and local economies.

Read more:
https://csrwire.com/press-release/five-years-later-how-chemours-forest-partnership-west-virginia-delivering-measurable-climate/

#2 – From WVNS-TV - Statewide virtual job fair set for May 6

WorkForce West Virginia has announced its next statewide virtual job fair, scheduled for May 6, offering an online platform for job seekers and employers to connect.

The event will run from 1 to 3:30 p.m., allowing participants to explore job openings, interact with recruiters, and apply for positions from anywhere in the state. Officials say the virtual format increases accessibility and helps match employers with qualified workers across West Virginia.

Read more:
https://www.wvnstv.com/news/west-virginia-news/workforce-west-virginia-announces-upcoming-virtual-job-fair-date-7/

#3 – From WV NEWS - Medical drone network aims to improve emergency response

Officials in central West Virginia are exploring a proposed medical drone network designed to improve emergency response times in rural areas.

The initiative would use drones to deliver critical medical supplies — such as AEDs and medications — to emergency scenes more quickly than traditional methods. Leaders say the concept could enhance rural healthcare access and provide life-saving support in hard-to-reach communities.

Read more:
https://www.wvnews.com/spencernews/news/rceda-and-central-west-virginia-officials-pitch-medical-drone-network-to-improve-emergency-response/article_47441a11-366e-4d75-a446-a9063cad7964.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Wednesday, April 29, 2026.

West Virginia University is expanding its academic offerings with a new Bachelor of Science in Construction Management, designed to meet growing workforce needs in infrastructure and development.

The program combines engineering, business, and hands-on field experience to prepare students for careers managing construction projects from start to finish. Officials say the degree will help address increasing demand for skilled professionals in construction and infrastructure nationwide.

The first class is expected to begin in fall 2026, offering students real-world learning opportunities and direct connections to industry employers.

Read more:
https://www.wvnews.com/news/wvnews/wvu-launches-undergraduate-degree-program-in-construction-management/article_7c94c9a2-c252-48c8-827a-317de169a53f.html

The Ascend West Virginia program is doing more than attracting remote workers — it's helping people build meaningful connections and a true sense of belonging.

Stories from participants highlight how everyday moments, like community events and shared outdoor experiences, can lead to lasting friendships and deeper ties to the state. Since its launch, Ascend WV has brought new residents to communities across West Virginia, offering incentives alongside opportunities to build both careers and relationships.

Read more:
https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/from-strangers-friends-ascend-wv-ascend-wv-im83e/

Whitewater rafting season is back in the New River Gorge, drawing visitors from across the country to one of West Virginia's premier outdoor destinations.

From scenic, family-friendly floats to adrenaline-pumping rapids, the season offers something for every level of adventure. The influx of visitors helps drive tourism and supports local businesses, from lodging and dining to outfitters and guides throughout the region.

Read more:
https://therealwv.com/2026/04/20/the-front-porch-whitewater-rafting-season-returns-to-the-new-river-gorge/

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.

Welcome to the daily304 – your window into Wonderful, Almost Heaven, West Virginia.

Today is Tuesday, April 28, 2026.

Touchstone Advanced Composites has completed a major expansion of its facility in Triadelphia, strengthening West Virginia's position in the aerospace and defense industries.

The expansion increases production capacity for advanced composite materials made from coal-derived carbon foam, used in aircraft and defense systems. The facility is expected to support significant growth, with plans to double its workforce and expand aerospace manufacturing capabilities.

Leaders say the project demonstrates how West Virginia's traditional resources can be transformed into high-tech applications, driving innovation and job creation in advanced manufacturing.

Read more:
https://www.aerospacemanufacturinganddesign.com/news/touchstone-advanced-composites-completes-major-expansion/

West Virginia University is equipping students with real-world skills through hands-on learning in artificial intelligence and data analytics.

An assistant professor is leading projects where students build solutions using applied AI, helping them develop problem-solving skills that translate directly to industry needs. The program emphasizes practical experience, preparing graduates for careers in technology, research, and innovation.

Read more:
https://wvutoday.wvu.edu/resources/wvu-assistant-professor-helps-students-build-solve-and-create-with-applied-ai-and-data-analytics

BridgeValley Community & Technical College has received funding to expand its welding and advanced manufacturing training programs.

The grant supports new equipment, expanded training capacity, and enhanced curriculum — helping prepare students for in-demand careers in skilled trades. Leaders say the investment strengthens West Virginia's workforce pipeline and supports industries across the state.

Read more:
https://www.bridgevalley.edu/news/2026/AGD_Advance_Grant_Welding_Press_Release.html

Find these stories and more at wv.gov/daily304.

The daily304 curated news and information is brought to you by the West Virginia Department of Commerce: sharing the wealth, beauty, and opportunity in West Virginia with the world. Follow the daily304 on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @daily304. Or find us online at wv.gov and just click the daily304 logo.

That's all for now. Take care. Be safe. Get outside and enjoy all the opportunity West Virginia has to offer.