VBW Training is a national training resource for individuals and organizations, such as schools, health care agencies, churches, social service groups, and anyone looking to enrich their standing as a competent and productive member of society.
We offer training in CPR, First Aid, AED Training, Basic Life Support, Babysitting Certification, and Medication Administration for unlicensed Health care personnel. Our partnership with the American Red Cross presents many opportunities and access to evidence-based educational materials and curriculum.
A key philosophy of VBW training is holism. We understand that each individual is a part of a family, society, and environment that affects their own interpretation of themselves and the world around them. We provide education on health and wellness in areas such as physical, mental, and spiritual wholeness. We provide resources to maintain a healthy lifestyle and cultivate professional development through holistic approaches.
What inspired you to found VBW Training? What kinds of problems are you trying to solve?
VBW is my namesake and I am inspired to make an honorable name for my family. VBW are my initials. I am named after my ancestors who have made a big impact on who I am. Many people in my family dealt with different medical and mental health diagnoses. At a young age, I was inspired to educate myself for the benefit of helping my family and others dealing with medical crises.
Naturally, I gravitated toward a career in healthcare. I graduated from a Nursing program in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and landed a position as a program manager for a national non-profit organization to support individuals with mental health and intellectual disabilities. Through my experience, I developed leadership skills and certifications to assist in training and development for our unlicensed health care professionals. My passion continued to grow, and my hope became to teach relevant skills and pieces of training in the community.
What makes you most excited to come to work each day?
Knowing that what I teach can impact someone in such a powerful way. Learning CPR, to save a life, is an invaluable skill! Performing CPR can make the difference in life or death for the person experiencing a life-threatening emergency. I love meeting new people and learning about their life experiences in a safe setting.
What is some of the best advice you’ve ever received?
“If you can’t fly, run. If you can’t run, walk. If you can’t walk, crawl. But whatever you do, you have to keep moving forward.” – Martin Luther King
At Industrious, we’re all about great days at work; so what makes for a great day in your book?
One of my favorite quotes related to work/life balance is “you cannot pour from an empty cup!” Work/life balance is considered in every detail at Industrious. My favorite perks are coffee, breakfast, snacks, bathroom toiletries, candy, and the staff are so accommodating! The atmosphere Industrious provides is breathtaking and I enjoy inviting guests and colleagues to the space. I also love the weekly newsletters, free technology for members (slack), and the support of the local small businesses.
What’s next for VBW Training? Do you have any upcoming initiatives or projects you’d like to share?
I am offering an instructor course where I will be traveling to teach at various Industrious locations (Atlanta, Houston, and California). I’m very excited about offering this course because our goal is to teach the masses to save a life!