2025 was a year of growth, success and community for FastForward. As the program reaches its 10th year, it’s worth reflecting on the impact FastForward has on its students and the commonwealth. Since 2016, the pay-for-performance, accelerated career training program has helped Virginia-based students earn more than 80,000 credentials in industries ranging from infrastructure to nursing.
Virginia is on the front lines in higher education and training, ranking #1 in Customized Training Leader in the U.S. (Business Facilities) and is a top state for Business Education (CNBC). There has never been a better time to invest in yourself and your education, and FastForward is here to make higher education accessible and affordable.
Read on to see how FastForward has helped thousands of students accelerate their careers in 2025, and how you can build your pathway to your next career.
Who FastForward Serves
FastForward prepares students to gain third-party, industry-recognized credentials. More than half of FastForward students served are from underrepresented populations and are twice as likely to receive SNAP/TANF benefits. Catering to adult learners, 90% of the program’s students have not been enrolled in one of Virginia’s Community Colleges in the last 15 years, and nearly 58% of students are parents or have dependents.
The Impact of Affordability
FastForward helps to alleviate the financial barrier to career advancement by providing affordable, effective training in in-demand industries.
According to the Virginia Employment Commission, in 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. FastForward is continuing to bridge the gap.
The program’s pay-for-performance model means students are rewarded for their success:
- One-third of the cost is paid by the student
- One-third is covered by a grant upon completion of training
- One-third is covered by a grant upon earning the credential
With additional funding sources available, eligible students end up paying a fraction of the cost out of pocket.
Program Satisfaction
FastForward’s program model focuses on success from the moment a student connects with the college. The program has a 94% program completion rate and 72% credential attainment rate. Following training, a majority of students have full-time jobs with benefits and better work schedules.
FastForward students are finding satisfaction in their careers post-credentials:
- 93% of graduates say their credentials are something employers want
- 81% are satisfied with their job stability
- 77% are satisfied with their work schedule
- 65% are satisfied with their pay
“The apprenticeship program changed my life 100% for the better. Thanks to FastForward, I’ll be a licensed plumber.” – Terrance Harmon, Plumbing Student, Central Virginia Community College.
Learn more about how FastForward can help advance your career here.