Did you know over 35 percent of all global data centers are located in Virginia? Data constantly flows through more than 180 facilities statewide, supporting everything from social media platforms to e-commerce giants. With the increasing demand for skilled workers in fields like electrical maintenance, fiber…
Losing a job can be a challenging and uncertain time, especially for federal employees who have dedicated years to public service. But it can also be an opportunity – an open door to a new and fulfilling career. If you’re looking for a fresh start, Virginia’s…
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…
Virginia’s dental workforce employs over 52,000 people throughout the state with many employees receiving education through a local community college. The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic caused departures from the workforce and exacerbated pre-existing challenges leading to employee shortages. These shortages resulted in dental offices struggling…
A career in healthcare offers stability, growth opportunities and the chance to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Yet, the industry faces significant workforce shortages across the commonwealth. To address this gap, community colleges are playing a vital role in providing the necessary tools for…
The Danville region is in the middle of an economic transformation. Businesses like Caesars Casino and a new Tysons Food facility are being developed that will lead to hundreds of jobs for the community. Danville Community College (DCC) is ensuring its educational offerings prepare students for…
Virginia continues to face a critical healthcare workforce shortage, with providers across the commonwealth struggling to fill essential roles. This shortage has been amplified by the rippling effects of the COVID-19 pandemic as well as key changes in the workforce demographic. For Cynthia Lawrence, director of…
Virginia needs about 40,000 hires over the next decade to build the solar capacity required to comply with the Virginia Clean Economy Act and support private industries wanting to use renewable energy resources. “It’s really an all-hands-on-deck situation that needs people of all education levels” said…
How often do you think about your city’s infrastructure? Probably not a ton, but it plays a critical role in your daily life. Infrastructure deserves more of your attention, as reliable, efficient structures are the backbone of a well-functioning society. Well-fitted pipes, functioning electricity in residential…
Are you READY? Created during the height of the pandemic, the Virginia Ready Initiative (VA Ready) works with many Virginia businesses and all of Virginia’s 23 community colleges to train students for careers in a variety of industries, many of which fall under the FastForward umbrella….