In today’s rapidly changing job market, skilled trades stand out as a rewarding career choice. From electricians and plumbers to welders and mechanics, these hands-on professions offer a unique combination of job security and high earning potential. Through programs offered at Virginia’s Community Colleges, students also…
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…
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 Challenge: Affordability in Higher Education Many students interested in pursuing academic or workforce training programs face a significant obstacle: affordability. Tuition rates for higher education continue to see significant increases leaving those seeking a career change or skill upgrade wondering if it’s within reach. A…
Whether you’ve completed a FastForward certificate program or earned an associate’s degree in a healthcare field, understanding how to navigate the job market is crucial to starting your dream medical career. The good news? The demand for trained healthcare talent continues to grow, and there are…
Ethical hacking, certified nurse aide, arc metal welder. These careers all have technical skills that are attainable through FastForward training. Employers will look at a person’s ability to measure blood pressure or weld cylindrical, tack-welded pieces – but they’re also looking for certain “soft skills” that…
You’ve done the work and completed your FastForward training. You’ve even attained a few certifications, but now what? It’s time to kick-off your job search! But before you start applying to job listings that fit your career path, you’ll probably need to update your resume, with…
Across all ages and abilities, the freedom to work and learn can be life-changing. The Virginia Department of Aging and Rehabilitation Services (DARS) works diligently to make these experiences a reality for everyone, regardless of their age or background. David Leon, director of workforce programs at…