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FastForward Trainees See Increase In Pay With New Careers

You may already know FastForward is one of the quickest, most affordable training programs in Virginia, but did you know that with FastForward training, you may also see an increase in take-home pay?

According to early data from Virginia’s New Economy Workforce Credentials Grants, workers who completed FastForward training have seen a typical increase in pay between 25 and 50 percent.

“Businesses are lining up to hire workers with the right skills, and the salary increases are transforming the lives of Virginia families,” said Glenn DuBois, chancellor of Virginia’s Community Colleges, home to FastForward training programs across the Commonwealth.

As of spring 2018, almost 6,000 Virginians have used the grants to earn credentials in about 40 high-demand occupations. The average grant recipient is 36 years old, with an annual salary of $22,000 upon entering the program.

Wage analysis compares the program participant’s income before entering a program and the annualized salary earned for two or more quarters after earning a credential. Researchers say wage data from additional program graduates will allow for deeper analysis of these and other occupations.