FastForward: A Pathway to Cybersecurity Careers in Virginia
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…
The Benefits of Hands-On Learning
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…
Credits for Prior Learning for Veterans
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…
Tips for Starting the School Year Strong
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 …
How to Find a Great Mentor
Having a professional mentor can be a great support system in your career journey as a student or new employee. Mentors can offer advice, share their experiences, connect you with opportunities and support you when things feel tough. But how do you actually find a mentor?…
Landing the Job: 3 Strategies to Jumpstart Your Job Search
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…
Balancing Work, Life and Study: Time Management Strategies for FastForward Students
Returning to school while managing work, family responsibilities and other commitments can feel overwhelming. However, FastForward’s flexible, career-focused programs make it possible. Designed for busy adults, our short-term, high-impact courses aim to help you advance your education without disrupting your daily life. To make the most…
Preparing for Certification Exams: Study Tips and Resources
Pre-exam anxiety keeps many people up at night. While it’s tough to completely shake off those nerves, thoughtful preparation can ease some of that stress. Whether you are preparing for a certification in nursing, education or facilities maintenance, with the right approach, you’ll walk into the…
Getting Hired with a Criminal Background
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,…
Top 10 reasons to complete workforce training
At the time this article is going up, unemployment in Virginia is hovering around 6%, but job openings haven’t quite recovered across the board. Workforce As the demand for jobs across the commonwealth continues to grow, having the right skills and training can make all the…
