MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — An apprenticeship program that aims to introduce Mountain State residents to a contractor-based career pathway is now open for applicants. Amidst a reported increase in construction developments that have occurred around various parts of West Virginia, the West Virginia Appalachian Laborers District Council announced that applicants are being accepted as part of their multi-year training and apprenticeship program. “We want to bring in new members through our apprenticeship programs,” said Kull. Apprentices will receive pay for on-site training, with classroom training offered free of charge. With retirement benefits also included for people who complete the apprenticeship program as part of the WVALDC, Kull considers it a great opportunity for anyone looking to retire early in life.