West Virginia Virtual Academy Launches 'TechBridge' Program

Blended virtual and hands-on learning aims to expand career opportunities for online students

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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The West Virginia Virtual Academy has introduced a new program called 'TechBridge' that combines virtual learning with real-world, hands-on technical skills training. The goal is to show that online education can actually expand, rather than limit, opportunities for students to explore career-focused pathways like welding, cosmetology, agriculture, and more.

Why it matters

As more students opt for virtual schooling, there are concerns that they may miss out on valuable hands-on learning experiences. The TechBridge program aims to address this by giving online students access to technical training programs and career exploration opportunities typically only available to traditional in-person students.

The details

Through the TechBridge program, West Virginia Virtual Academy students are encouraged to apply to local technical centers and pursue career-focused coursework and certifications in fields like welding, cosmetology, agriculture, diesel mechanics, and carpentry. This allows them to gain real-world skills and experience alongside their virtual academic studies.

  • The TechBridge program was launched in 2026 by the West Virginia Virtual Academy.

The players

West Virginia Virtual Academy

A statewide virtual public school program in West Virginia.

Jeremy Greene

The Career Readiness Coordinator for the TechBridge program at the West Virginia Virtual Academy.

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What they’re saying

“We want growth to the point where we have students that want the program, right? We're not looking to force a kid into a tech program that they don't want to be a part of, but we certainly don't want to limit them with the opportunity. If it's something that they want to pursue.”

— Jeremy Greene, Career Readiness Coordinator (wvnstv.com)

What’s next

The West Virginia Virtual Academy plans to continue expanding the TechBridge program to offer more technical training pathways and hands-on learning opportunities for its online students.

The takeaway

The TechBridge program demonstrates how virtual education can be combined with real-world, career-focused skills training to provide a well-rounded learning experience for students. This blended approach aims to give online students the same access to technical education and career exploration as their peers in traditional schools.