Defense Manufacturing Jobs: German firm Helsing will invest $50 million to build HX-2 strike drone manufacturing in Martinsburg, creating at least 60 jobs and signaling more defense work moving into West Virginia. Workforce Gap: State leaders say the new wave of projects—from defense to energy—depends on filling shortages in trades like electricians, plumbers, HVAC and contractors. Energy Innovation Funding: WVU leads a new NSF Regional Innovation Engine with Pitt and Carnegie Mellon, backed by $321 million to advance energy security, grid resilience and advanced manufacturing. Data Center Stormwater Enforcement: WVDEP ordered Monarch Cloud Campus in Mason County to fix stormwater controls after flooding and sediment impacts on nearby homes, including stopping work in a drainage area until controls are installed. Environmental Permitting at Risk: Residents in Belle packed a town hall over a proposed Clean-Seas plastic repurposing plant, raising concerns about emissions, oversight and safety as DEP reviews the air permit. Public Health Watch: The CDC reports a major Cyclospora surge nationwide, with Michigan pointing to lettuce/salad greens as a possible source; West Virginia is among states tied to the outbreak. Local Infrastructure Dollars: Bluefield clarified its $31M road improvement plan is funded by federal and state Safe Streets money, with limited discretion on how it’s spent. Housing & Community Stability: BridgeValley will run a 2026 STEAM Academy for rising 5th–8th graders, supported by Toyota and the Kanawha Valley Mining Institute. Education & Training Access: Eastern WVCTC expanded dual enrollment and workforce programs, including more in-person CTE and open educational resources to cut textbook costs.