Mercedes has always had an interest in medicine and in helping people. She received her first medical training when she was still in high school, and her interest in the field only grew after she faced a medical condition herself. She recalls that her interactions with…
Virginia is known around the world for its world-class military operations – from the Naval Shipyard in Hampton Roads, to Coast Guard, Army and Air Force troops stationed at Fort Belvoir, Fort Lee, Quantico and more. Serving the military community is something FastForward prides itself in…
For Megan, the decision to pursue a career in the power line industry came from wanting to have a stable career and a secure future for herself and her 12-year-old daughter. “The best part that appealed to me was just the financial stability and the fact…
Imagine spending your days with your hands deep in soil, pulling weeds and tending crops under the heat of the Virginia sun. For many in rural parts of the Commonwealth, this is a way of life, and as Ryan describes it for those who live on…
You know you’re in an exciting line of work when one day you’re installing a staircase at a college in Lynchburg and the next, you’re planning work on a high-rise construction project in Richmond. Since receiving his 6G Pipe Welding Certification after completing FastForward training, Marcus,…
When people are at their worst, Brittany is there to help see them through. Prior to enrolling in FastForward, Brittany was stationed at one of Sentara’s ER registration desks. She already earned a phlebotomy credential and a medical billing and coding credential through Paul D. Camp…
For Michelle, what started as a curiosity has now led to her making double what she made before and she’s earning high praise from her manager. Michelle had been working in home healthcare, making only $8 an hour, before deciding to enroll in pharmacy technician training…
Farley graduated high school uncertain of her future career trajectory. She always had an interest in the medical field and made the decision to enlist in the military to serve as a medical specialist in the U.S. Army stationed in Germany. Upon the completion of her…
Keisha is proof of what can be accomplished through hard work and sheer determination. The Culpeper resident overcame homelessness while raising a young child to attain two health care certifications and start a fulfilling career as a certified phlebotomist/nurse assistant. In her position, Smith now has…
Roughly 69 percent of employers are having problems finding skilled laborers that match job postings, according to a report by Burning Glass. That means there are open jobs in need of skilled, qualified workers. Employers are seeking people with trade skills outside of a typical high…