Cassidy Riley, a native of Good Hope, West Virginia, serves as the Chief Program Officer at Coalfield Development, where she leads initiatives focused on economic and workforce development in rural areas. In this role, she oversees programs that provide hands-on training and career pathways for individuals, helping to revitalize local economies and create long-term employment opportunities. Her leadership has been instrumental in implementing projects funded by the U.S. Economic Development Administration (USEDA) that strengthen communities and expand access to economic opportunities.

 

Before joining Coalfield Development, she worked in infrastructure and economic development for local governments and rural communities in West Virginia, playing a critical role in shaping strategies for community growth and resilience. Her experience in these areas has equipped her with a deep understanding of the complexities of rural economies and the importance of aligning workforce development with economic opportunity.

 

She holds a Master of Public Administration from Marshall University, where her coursework focused on nonprofit management and rural capacity building. Throughout her career, Cassidy has remained committed to economic diversification and workforce development, particularly in communities navigating economic transitions. Her vision is centered on creating long-term solutions that empower people and strengthen local economies, ensuring a strong, resilient future for Appalachian communities.