As the owner of Brown’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical, Brandon Brown values programs like FastForward for the role it plays in providing in-depth training and hands-on learning for the HVAC industry. And as a recipient of an HVAC credential program himself, Brown has firsthand experience with the impact this type of training can have on building a successful career.
Brown’s journey into skilled trades began while he was in high school. With guidance from a high school counselor, he discovered the dual enrollment program during his junior year and chose to pursue the heating and ventilation certification program offered through Central Virginia Community College.
“I loved the classes. I completed the two years and graduated high school and the career certificate the same month,” Brown said. “It was amazing to be in no debt in college and just hit the ground running to work.”
In 2006, Brown founded Brown Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical. Today, his award-winning business serves residential and commercial properties throughout central Virginia.
Dual Enrollment Programs
Dual enrollment programs, offered through Virginia’s Community Colleges, allows high school students to earn college credits or certificates while completing their diploma, giving them a head start on a degree or career.
Credits earned are widely accepted and can apply towards general education requirements at Virginia’s Community Colleges and four-year institutions in Virginia.
The Role of Industry Partnerships
Through collaborations with industry partners like Brown’s Heating, Air, Plumbing & Electrical, Virginia’s Community Colleges is able to tailor FastForward programs to better align with local workforce needs.
These partnerships provide students with hands-on training and access to a strong network of industry professionals, while also helping employers connect with skilled and motivated talent.
Explore programs available through your local community college here.