SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va. – BridgeValley Community and Technical College has secured $800,000 in Congressionally Directed Spending through the Fiscal Year 2026 federal appropriations package to establish the Applied Energy Systems Lab for Renewable Workforce Training at its South Charleston campus.

The funding, provided through the U.S. Department of Commerce National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Scientific and Technical Research and Services account, will support the development of a hands-on instructional lab focused on solar energy generation, battery storage systems, and applied energy technologies aligned with national standards.

The new lab will expand BridgeValley’s capacity to prepare students for high-demand careers in renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, and energy systems maintenance. The investment will support industry-aligned equipment within existing instructional space and strengthen partnerships with regional employers.

BridgeValley extends its sincere appreciation to Senator Shelley Moore Capito and Senator Jim Justice for their leadership and advocacy in securing this investment for West Virginia. Their continued support of higher education and workforce development ensures that community colleges remain positioned to meet evolving industry needs while strengthening the state’s long-term economic competitiveness.

“This investment allows us to further align our programs with emerging energy technologies and workforce demands,” said Dr. Casey K. Sacks, President of BridgeValley Community and Technical College. “We are grateful to Senator Capito and Senator Justice for their commitment to supporting practical, workforce-focused solutions that benefit students, employers, and communities across West Virginia.”