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?…
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…
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…
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…
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,…
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…
With a continued need for a pipeline of talent in the healthcare field, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program at Northern Virginia Community College’s Workforce Service Division is helping to fill the gap and employ people in worthwhile careers. Students enter the program with their Certified…
Since the COVID-19 pandemic, virtual learning has become a staple for many educational institutions to provide flexibility for students and teachers alike who prefer online methods of learning. For some FastForward students enrolling in an upcoming program, online learning can pose a bit of a challenge,…
Congrats! You’ve made it past the application stage. You’ve officially got a foot in the door and an interview on the books, whether it’s via phone, in-person, or via Zoom. Your interview is the perfect opportunity to put a face to the resume and bring it…
Deciding to change jobs or return to school can be overwhelming, but what if you could fast-track your career growth without making a drastic change? By engaging with your employer and staying up to date with industry trends, you can unlock new opportunities for advancement through…