West Virginia Health Right, State Agencies and Chef Paul Smith Launch “Prepped to Serve Appalachia”

CHARLESTON, W.Va. (WVDN) – West Virginia Health Right in partnership with Chef Paul Smith – West Virginia’s only James Beard Award-winning chef – and supported by WorkForce West Virginia, a division of the West Virginia Department of Commerce, proudly announces the launch of “Prepped to Serve Appalachia,” an accelerated fine dining worker certification program. This initiative will prepare 40 West Virginians annually for careers in the fine dining industry.

Participants will undergo a three-month program, featuring one month of intensive classroom training led by Chef Paul, followed by two months of on-the-job training at local fine dining establishments. West Virginia Health Right’s state-of-the-art teaching kitchens and comprehensive healthcare services will support participants in achieving employment success.

“This program is a game-changer for our community, providing both valuable skills and comprehensive support,” Chef Paul Smith said .

Governor Jim Justice said, “This is another shining example of how West Virginia is approaching workforce development differently. Partnering with the local community and leveraging national recognition with Chef Paul to support folks in helping them get new skills and new careers.”

Dr. Angie Settle, Chief Executive Officer of West Virginia Health Right, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with Chef Paul to empower individuals and uplift our local economy. By equipping participants with new skills, we are fostering sustainable employment and helping build a stronger, more resilient local economy. ‘Prepped to Serve Appalachia’ aligns with our mission to enhance both the health and economic stability of our community.”

Secretary of Commerce James Bailey said, “‘Prepped to Serve Appalachia’ addresses a critical need for skilled workers in West Virginia’s fine dining sector while offering participants a pathway to employment and financial stability. Participants receive not only culinary training but also essential healthcare services, ensuring they are well-prepared for their new careers.”

“Prepped To Serve Appalachia” addresses the critical need for skilled workers in West Virginia’s fine dining sector while offering participants a pathway to employment and financial stability. Participants receive not only culinary training but also essential health care services, ensuring they are well-prepared for their new careers.

For more information visit wvhealthright.org/prepped-to- serve-appalachia

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