SOUTH CHARLESTON, W. Va. – BridgeValley Community and Technical College students earned eight of the twelve Charles Bowling Scholarships presented at the Kanawha Valley Mining Institute (KVMI) annual scholarship ceremony, demonstrating the strength of the college’s mining and workforce-focused academic programs.

The Charles Bowling Scholarship recognizes outstanding students pursuing careers in mining and related industries. BridgeValley students comprised two-thirds of this year’s scholarship recipients, a reflection of their academic excellence, dedication, and commitment to West Virginia’s energy and workforce sectors.

The ceremony featured keynote remarks from Senator Brian Helton and Senator Tom Willis, underscoring strong legislative support for career readiness, workforce development, and student success across the state.

In addition to celebrating student achievement, KVMI further invested in the region’s future workforce by donating $750 to support local youth participation in BridgeValley’s 2026 STEAM Academy, scheduled for this summer. The donation will help expand access to hands-on learning experiences that introduce middle and high school students to careers in science, technology, engineering, arts, and mathematics.

“This recognition speaks to the caliber of students we serve and the quality of instruction they receive,” said Andrea Petry, Foundation Director of BridgeValley Community and Technical College. “Our partnerships with organizations like the Kanawha Valley Mining Institute strengthen pathways from education to employment and ensure West Virginia’s industries have a highly skilled workforce prepared to lead.”

BridgeValley remains committed to advancing workforce education and providing students with opportunities that directly connect classroom learning to high-demand careers throughout the region.

For more information about BridgeValley’s workforce programs and upcoming STEAM Academy opportunities, visit www.bridgevalley.edu.