FastForward is a unique program that exists across all 23 of Virginia’s Community Colleges. In different geographical areas, different industries are more prominent. For example, the shipbuilding industry is big in the Hampton Roads area, but without a coastline, it is not as relevant of an…
When the local business community is thriving, chances are the trickle-down effect will be felt at every level of an organization and into the community itself. But when businesses are struggling to find skilled workers to hire, something must be done to bridge the gap. Community…
There are a few industries in Virginia that not even a pandemic could impact. In fact, the pandemic may have even increased the need for skilled, trained workers. While four-year institutions address a spectrum of career fields, community colleges tends to have a more concentrated focus:…
Many of our FastForward programs work closely with local companies, organizations and nonprofits throughout Virginia to ensure students who complete their credentials can quickly enter the workforce. However, Highground Services in Franklin, Va. does the hiring first through its apprenticeship program, which provides a combination of…
On July 1, 2021, Virginia’s Community Colleges are launching G3, a training and education program for students with a family income of less than $100,000. The focus of the G3 program is to educate Virginians for high-demand fields, like skilled trades, public safety and healthcare, preparing…
There aren’t many high schoolers we trust behind the wheel of a car, but at 16 years old, Bram Massie was trusted with syringes and a pilot’s license. Today, Massie is an instructor at Mountain Empire Community College where he teaches students the Emergency Medical Technician…
Through the Re-Employing Virginians (REV) campaign, the Governor’s office is giving Virginia’s Community Colleges $27 million to help current and future students cover the costs of tuition and fees in fields that will lead to careers in their community. We can help thousands of Virginians. Are…
FastForward career training is held at Virginia’s Community Colleges. Virginia is currently operating under Phase Three guidelines as put forth by the Governor’s Office. While there may be additional guidance at each community college, FastForward training has resumed – both in-person and online. Under Phase Three…
As Virginia settles into the new normal of Phase 3, the 9.4% of Virginians who are out of work may still be asking themselves, “When will things get back to normal for me?” And the answer isn’t crystal clear. The last time our workforce was so…
The idea of going back to school can seem daunting, but how does going through training sound? Your local community college offers real world workforce training that can help prepare you for a wide range of jobs and careers. We talked with several FastForward Career Coaches…