Life can get in the way of going back to school, but that shouldn’t keep you from investing time in something that can change your life for the better. We talked to our FastForward Career Coaches about hurdles their students have overcome when deciding to enroll…
The construction industry plays an important role in shaping Virginia’s infrastructure and economy. In 2024, construction contributed $38 billion to the commonwealth’s GDP and currently employs more than 227,000 workers across the state. With a growing demand for residential, commercial and industrial projects, companies across…
No interview is perfect because there will always be areas for improvement. Even so, our FastForward Career Coaches say they’ve spotted a number of common interview mistakes on a regular basis that are easily fixed. Here are the three interview slip-ups we see most often, along…
As technology evolves, the need for skilled professionals who understand the complexities of electrical systems continues to grow throughout Virginia. Whether you’re interested in developing key automotive safety features or repairing malfunctioning electrical systems, FastForward’s training programs offer students the opportunity to gain the hands-on training…
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,…
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…
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…
In today’s fast-paced transportation industry, having a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) can open doors to new career opportunities. For those interested in pursuing a career in trucking, Mountain Gateway Community College’s CDL program offers a unique and personalized approach to training. Dorothy Hayslett, CDL program head…
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,…