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…
For decades, a four-year college degree has been seen as the traditional path to a successful career. But as the job market evolves, more people are rethinking that route, and with good reason. Industry certifications are emerging as a faster, more affordable and highly targeted way…
Fiber optics serves as the backbone of modern technology, supporting and transmitting large amounts of data like never before. From high-speed internet to medical imaging, the use of fiber optics is becoming more and more widespread. According to the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia is rapidly…
Searching for a new job can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re unsure where to start. Whether you’re just entering the workforce or looking to make a career change, having a clear game plan can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll break down three essential…
The construction industry plays an important role in shaping Virginia’s infrastructure and economy. In 2024, construction contributed $38 billion to the commonwealth’s GDP and currently employs more than 227,000 workers across the state. With a growing demand for residential, commercial and industrial projects, companies across…
According to the Virginia Employment Commission, by 2026, there are expected to be 2.6M middle-skilled jobs in Virginia – jobs that require some training, but not a four-year degree. There is a skills gap in Virginia’s workforce, and FastForward is continuing to bridge the gap by…
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…
As graduation approaches, high school students across the commonwealth are preparing for the next chapter of their lives. This milestone marks not only the culmination of their studies but also provides a sense of accomplishment. Along with these feelings may come a sense of uncertainty. The…
Tiffany always envisioned working in healthcare and felt on track to make her dreams a reality when she started nursing school at Eastern Mennonite University. Then, she had to take a break from school: in her own words, life got in the way. As a single…
Editor’s Note: This article was originally published online on Laurel Ridge Community College’s website. You can see the original article here. When she graduated from high school in 2021, Jazmine Sebestyen knew she wanted to work in the medical field in some capacity. After her family…