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In-person and online training programs to kick-start your career

Training Takes Weeks. Not Years.

There are thousands of jobs open across Virginia, and many of these essential fields don’t require a college degree. If you’re looking for an affordable career training program, consider enrolling in FastForward.

FastForward at Virginia’s Community Colleges is a short-term training program for high-demand industries, like healthcare, information technology and skilled trades and infrastructure, helping Virginians get the jobs they want and the salaries they need. Our goal is to get you trained, help you earn your certification and get you into a career that can support you and your family.

FastForward Blog

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How to Find a Great Mentor 

Having a professional mentor can be a great support system in your career journey as a student or new employee. Mentors can offer advice, share their experiences, connect you with opportunities and support you when things feel tough.   But how do you actually find a mentor?…

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How to Be an Exceptional Mentor 

Serving as a mentor is both a privilege and a meaningful opportunity to shape someone’s career journey. While it may feel a bit daunting at first, mentorship is ultimately rooted in trust, respect, and openness. When done well, it can lead to powerful growth, for both…

Amazon's HQ2 in Virginia. Image sourced from Business Traveler, provided by Amazon
Workforce Update | Data Centers + Fiber Optics 

Virginia is quickly becoming the world’s data center capital. Almost ten percent of the world’s data flows through the Commonwealth, creating a high demand for data and fiber optics-certified employees. Check out these recent workforce developments happening in Virginia.  Virginia: Welcome to the Future State  Almost…

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64,170 credentials earned

Over 52,900 certificates and credentials have been awarded across Virginia’s Community Colleges through FastForward since 2016.
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40 in-demand careers

Our short-term career training programs prepare you for 40 great careers across seven industries in Virginia.
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72% wage satisfaction

71% of FastForward graduates, on average, are satisfied with their pay post-credential.
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85% satisfied with job stability

Of FastForward students surveyed, on average, 86% are satisfied with their job stability post-credential.

FastForward Student Success Story

1,119 views   •   June 1, 2022
FastForward Heavy Equipment Operator and Construction Training | Virginia’s Community Colleges

Career and technical training like FastForward can help get you the skills needed for a great job in the construction industry. From heavy equipment operator, to electrical, HVAC and more, this training at your local community college can prepare you for open, high-demand jobs where you live.

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