Posts By Author: Greg Surber

Cybersecurity is a large and important industry in the Commonwealth. It’s an expanding field that not only helps individuals stay safe online by protecting personal information, but it also serves the larger community and state by mitigating cyber risk.  Through Virginia’s Community Colleges’ FastForward program, eligible Virginia residents from across the Commonwealth can take advantage of an Information Technology curricula designed…

Not every student thrives in a traditional classroom setting. For students struggling in a traditional learning environment, hands-on learning can be a productive alternative, one that is often a more suitable way for students to learn.  Virginia’s Community Colleges’ recognizes these learning differences, and so its FastForward program offers a range of hands-on learning experiences that engage students in…

Heating, ventilation and air conditioning, known as HVAC, plays a vital role in creating safe and comfortable spaces where people live and work. Skilled technicians keep these systems running efficiently, improving energy use and supporting homes and businesses across Virginia.  As demand for HVAC professionals continues to rise, FastForward is helping students gain the…

Every year, as we honor those who have served our country on Veteran’s Day, we’re reminded of the unique skills, training, and experiences our veterans bring home with them. Did you know many of those skills can count toward a credential or certification? The FastForward program is designed to help…

Virginia’s Community Colleges are proud to support Virginia’s logistics and transportation industry. Transportation is essential to the logistics industry in order to transport goods and materials. In honor of National Truckers Day, recognized earlier this month, we’re highlighting recent workforce developments in logistics happening across the…

FastForward, offered through Virginia’s Community Colleges, is a funding program designed to make career training more affordable and accessible for Virginians. By reducing the financial barriers to in-demand credentials, FastForward helps students gain the skills needed to launch or advance their careers. In addition to this…

In the skilled trade of power lines, workers build, maintain, and repair the electrical lines that keep homes, businesses, and communities connected to power. A typical workday can include climbing poles to install wires, or work on transformers. This skill is important as it ensures electricity…

Healthcare is one of the fastest growing industries across the U.S. and Virginia is no exception. FastForward healthcare programs are designed to provide specific training in over 15 different healthcare careers, equipping learners with the skills and experience necessary for success.   Students can earn credentials and…

Back-to-school season is here! Whether you’re returning to class or starting your very first FastForward course, now is the perfect time to set yourself up for success. These tips will help you feel prepared, confident and ready to make the most of your journey.  Get Organized …

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…