WEIRTON, WV – Mike Phelps has announced his candidacy for the Hancock County Board of Education, bringing with him 20 years of military service and more than three decades of leadership experience.
Phelps served in the United States Air Force from 1981 to 2001, achieving the rank of Master Sergeant. His assignments included North Dakota, Alaska, Missouri, Wyoming, and Keflavik, Iceland, before culminating as First Sergeant for the 311th Recruiting Squadron in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania. Much of his career was spent in Transportation, with his final five years focused on serving as First Sergeant, where he was responsible for mission accomplishment while ensuring the welfare, morale, and readiness of squadron personnel.
During his military career, Phelps was awarded two Meritorious Service Medals along with multiple Air Force Commendation and Achievement Medals in recognition of his leadership and service. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Organizational Studies from Robert Morris University.
Following his retirement from the Air Force, Phelps transitioned into civilian leadership roles, successfully managing teams across several industries, including retail operations, trucking, structured Ethernet and fiber optic cabling, and installation services. His experience has consistently centered on operational oversight, team development, and responsible management.
After years of relocating throughout his career, Phelps chose to make Weirton his permanent home. When faced with an opportunity that would have required relocating once again to assume greater responsibilities, he instead chose to remain in Hancock County to focus on family and community. He is a parent and grandparent and has increasingly dedicated his time to local involvement.
The recent events taking place within the local school system motivated Phelps to step forward and serve. He believes this is an important time for our community and that our schools need steady, principled leadership focused on responsible decision-making while supporting students, employees, and families. He believes his background in leadership and accountability prepared him to help guide the county schools forward.
Phelps priorities include restoring stability, strengthening transparency, and ensuring decisions are made with both compassion and fiscal responsibility.
The election for the Hancock County Board of Education will be held on May 12
