A criminal background doesn’t have to define your future. Today, there are many programs championing second chances, offering workforce training opportunities designed to help individuals with past convictions build meaningful, well-paying careers. We talked to our FastForward Career Coaches, who work with justice-impacted individuals every day,…
Throughout the Commonwealth, the shortage of healthcare professionals continues to cause concern for providers and individuals alike. Healthcare offers many highly rewarding and in-demand opportunities for those passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re interested in direct patient care or behind-the-scenes roles, such as healthcare administration,…
In today’s rapidly changing job market, skilled trades stand out as a rewarding career choice. From electricians and plumbers to welders and mechanics, these hands-on professions offer a unique combination of job security and high earning potential. Through programs offered at Virginia’s Community Colleges, students also…
Virginia’s dental workforce employs over 52,000 people throughout the state with many employees receiving education through a local community college. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic caused departures from the workforce and exacerbated pre-existing challenges leading to employee shortages. These shortages resulted in dental offices struggling…
Whether you’ve completed a FastForward certificate program or earned an associate’s degree in a healthcare field, understanding how to navigate the job market is crucial to starting your dream medical career. The good news? The demand for trained healthcare talent continues to grow, and there are…
You’ve done the work and completed your FastForward training. You’ve even attained a few certifications, but now what? It’s time to kick-off your job search! But before you start applying to job listings that fit your career path, you’ll probably need to update your resume, with…
Across all ages and abilities, the freedom to work and learn can be life-changing. The Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DARS) works diligently to make these experiences a reality for everyone, regardless of their age or background. David Leon, director of workforce programs at…
Learning doesn’t have to be confined to the walls of a classroom. In fact, on-site learning experiences like internships and apprenticeships can give students valuable, industry-specific skills that can go beyond what is learned at a desk. Barry Richmond, apprenticeship coordinator at Danville Community College (DCC),…
The Danville region is in the middle of an economic transformation. Businesses like Caesars Casino and a new Tysons Food facility are being developed that will lead to hundreds of jobs for the community. Danville Community College (DCC) is ensuring its educational offerings prepare students for…
Virginia continues to face a critical healthcare workforce shortage, with providers across the commonwealth struggling to fill essential roles. This shortage has been amplified by the rippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as key changes in the workforce demographic. For Cynthia Lawrence, director of…