Data Analyst (GWV NewForce Insights - ALT-EXP Project)

This is an 8-week, project-based role available exclusively to NewForce Cohort 12 graduates participating in the stipend program.Project OverviewThe Allegheny Trail Economies Expedition (ALT-EXP), developed in partnership with the West Virginia Scenic Trails Association, is a long-distance, place-based research initiative spanning the Allegheny Trail. The project combines field research, storytelling, and economic analysis to better understand tourism, recreation, and rural economic development opportunities across West Virginia communities.The NewForce Insights team will play a critical role in transforming qualitative and quantitative data into meaningful insights and visual products for policymakers, tourism leaders, and community stakeholders.Position SummaryThe Data Analyst will support the collection, cleaning, analysis, and visualization of data generated through the ALT-EXP project. This includes interview data, tourism metrics, economic indicators, and geospatial insights gathered across multiple counties.This is an 8-week, project-based role available exclusively to NewForce Cohort 12 graduates participating in the stipend program.Key ResponsibilitiesAggregate and clean datasets from multiple sources (interviews, surveys, public datasets, tourism metrics)Develop dashboards and visualizations using tools such as:Power BITableauLooker StudioTranslate qualitative interview data into structured insights and themesSupport development of:Regional economic profilesTourism and recreation impact summariesData visuals for reports, media, and presentationsCollaborate with media and storytelling teams to align data insights with narrative outputsAssist in compiling the final Economic Insights ReportOrganize and document datasets for future partner useProject Scope AreasAnalysis will support insights across communities including:Recreation economies (e.g., trail usage, outdoor tourism)Legacy industry transitions (logging, rail, coal)Small business and hospitality trendsRegional tourism assets and visitation patternsEconomic opportunity gaps and development potentialDeliverablesInteractive dashboard(s) for stakeholder useData visualizations for:10+ town profilesPublished articles and media featuresStructured datasets and documentationContributions to final ALT-EX Economic Insights ReportRequirementsRequired Skills & ExperienceCompletion of NewForce training (Cohort 12)Proficiency in at least one data visualization tool (Power BI, Tableau, or Looker Studio)Strong data cleaning and analysis skills (Excel, SQL, or Python preferred)Ability to synthesize qualitative and quantitative dataClear communication and data storytelling abilityPreferred SkillsExperience with geospatial data or mapping toolsFamiliarity with economic development or tourism datasetsExperience working with unstructured data (interviews, transcripts)Project DetailsDuration: 8 weeksEligibility: NewForce Cohort 12 graduates (stipend program only)Work Type: Remote with collaborative team check-insStart Date: June 2026 (aligned with ALT-EX fieldwork timeline)Why This Project MattersThis role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a statewide economic storytelling initiative, helping shape how rural communities are understood and supported through data-driven insights. The outputs will directly inform tourism strategy, economic development planning, and national narratives about West Virginia.