Michael Fisher Joins Active SWV as Workplace Wellness Director

Michael Fisher brings skills, knowledge, and passion to southern West Virginia

With an undergraduate degree in Exercise Science from Virginia Commonwealth University and a masters of science in Kinesiology, Michael will utilized his passion and knowledge of physical activity to improve the quality of life for the working class across the region. 

“Active SWV has an immediate impact on the health and wellbeing in workplaces and communities around the State. My roots can be traced back to the mountains and mines of Anjean, West Virginia, giving me a deeply sentimental connection to the area. As someone who has adventured coast to coast, and across multiple continents, I have found a home again here in the New River Gorge because the community and landscape are one of a kind, and impossible to forget. It is my goal as a member of Active SWV to bring health and wellness opportunities to every member of our community, no matter their income,  experience, or fitness level. It is my belief that wellbeing is a universal must, and that we should all have the same access and opportunity to live a healthy life free from sickness, pain, and disease. My goal is to bring just that to our community: accessible, understandable, and most importantly, fun options to stay active and healthy no matter where we are during the workday,” shares Michael.

Michael has extensive experience in outdoor recreation through event planning, professional photography, group facilitation, marketing, youth coaching, fitness instruction, and instructor training in disciplines such as climbing, paddling, hiking, backpacking, biking, yoga, and bouldering to name a few. He holds advanced certifications and a long list of honors and awards. 

Making impacts in Workplace Wellness 

The Active SWV Workplace Wellness program began in 2017 with support from the Appalachian Regional Commission and the New River Gorge Regional Development Authority launching the pilot program with the City of Beckley departments. This evidence based approach at providing resources through policy, environment, and system changes has proven results across many business sectors. 

With Michael’s leadership, current Workplace Wellness members will receive increased resources and collaborations while new industries are attracted to the benefits of improving the health of the workforce. Job retention and attraction will continue to increase in a region rich with outdoor recreation opportunities sustaining and improving a higher quality of life. 

“To succeed in this goal, I plan on bringing a face to face level of communication directly to workplaces we partner with. It is my intention to connect and personalize each and every workplace fitness goal and plan to customize the best methods for each workplace and individual they employ to succeed. I understand that we are all in different places of fitness, wellness, and understanding. With more options, more providers, and more access to workplace wellness, I know we can become a healthier, more efficient, happy, and productive workforce,” adds Michael. 

Get involved today

Reach out to Michael at [email protected] 

Learn more about the Workplace Wellness Work@Health spring training.

Join us on June 23 for the second annual WV Workplace Wellness Conference

Find free physical activity programs near you today.