By: Callie Isenberg | October 31, 2024
Ascend WV, West Virginia’s premier talent attraction program designed to bring remote workers to the state, has been growing in the Greenbrier Valley for nearly three years. As a flagship program of the Brad & Alys Smith Outdoor Economic Development Collaborative (OEDC), Ascend WV promotes a lifestyle that emphasizes outdoor activities and community engagement, enhances the quality of life for remote employees, and stimulates the local economy. Since the program’s inception in 2021, the OEDC continues to demonstrate that remote work is here to stay and can be leveraged to encourage top talent to live, work, and play in West Virginia.
With over 400 remote workers and their families having relocated to the state to date via the Ascend WV program, including 74 in the Greenbrier Valley (127 including their family members), it is evident that those who are seeking quality of life through work-life balance are choosing West Virginia.
“Remote work has allowed me to create a fulfilling lifestyle in West Virginia,” current Ascend member, Celeste Filiatrault, says. “I get to work from my porch, surrounded by the sounds of birds and the peaceful sight of wildlife, all while designing software. This setup not only enhances my productivity and creativity, but also lets me fully enjoy the natural beauty around me, blending my professional life seamlessly with personal well-being.”
Concurrently, a first of its kind program in the nation, and the newest initiative from the Smith OEDC, First Ascent, aims to help recent West Virginia University and Marshall University graduates stay in state through the power of hybrid and remote work. First Ascent helps members build community, find work-life balance, and level up their careers – all while building a lifestyle centered on outdoor recreation.
“It’s hard to put into words what makes me love WV so much,” Eliza Siefert, a recent WVU grad, current First Ascent member, and Critical Materials Water Researcher at the West Virginia Water Research Institute, says. “The natural beauty is astounding and it’s an honor to preserve and remediate the environment through my job. WV is one of the biodiversity hotspots of the world and it’s remarkable to me that not many people know about it. I love this state so much because there is a place here for me to make a positive impact to environments and communities.”
The natural beauty of the Greenbrier Valley attracts visitors and remote workers alike. It is a featured Ascend WV and First Ascent location due to its rich culture, vibrant community and easy access to outdoor recreation. A remote worker in the Greenbrier Valley can go for a morning hike, have a productive workday, dine at a nice restaurant and attend a live show all in the same day.
What’s more, in today’s evolving workplace landscape, remote work has shifted from a temporary solution to a strategic advantage. Businesses are discovering that hybrid or remote work opportunities can significantly enhance productivity and improve work-life balance for employees, improving retention of top talent and attracting qualified employees to join the team.
According to the State of Remote Work report for 2023, 98% of American workers state that they prefer hybrid or fully remote workstyles. In addition, a recent study estimates that 36 million people are expected to be working remotely by 2025. This means that businesses in the Greenbrier Valley who are looking to fill critical roles can tap into this growing workforce, simply by rethinking the flexibility of their workplace.
Remote work can lead to increased employee productivity for several reasons:
- Flexible Work Environment: Employees often report higher satisfaction when they can choose their work environment, whether it’s a quiet home office or a local café. This flexibility can enhance focus and efficiency.
- Reduced Commuting Time: By eliminating daily commutes, employees save time that can be redirected toward work tasks or personal interests, fostering a more motivated workforce.
- Tailored Work Hours: Remote work allows employees to work during their peak productive hours, leading to better outcomes and higher-quality work.
Remote work also plays a crucial role in promoting a healthier work-life balance:
- Family Time: Employees can be more present with family obligations, leading to reduced stress and increased job satisfaction.
- Personal Well-being: With more control over their schedules, employees can incorporate wellness activities into their day, which can reduce burnout and improve overall morale.
- Diverse Talent Pool: Companies can hire from a wider geographic area, attracting diverse talent that can bring fresh perspectives and innovation.
As the workplace continues to evolve, embracing hybrid and remote work is not just a trend; it’s a pathway to increased productivity and enhanced employee well-being. Business owners who recognize these benefits will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent.
Interested in exploring how to set your business up for success through hybrid and remote work? RSVP to join us for a Lunch and Learn with First Ascent and Ascend WV on Wednesday, November 20th to explore learnings, opportunities, and ideas for WV employers to help attract and retain top talent seeking hybrid and remote roles.
Can’t attend the Lunch and Learn but want to learn more? Please reach out to our team at FirstAscent@mail.wvu.edu to coordinate a virtual presentation or discussion.
Callie Isenberg
Greenbrier Valley Program Coordinator
Ascend WV
