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Program Details

The Most Affordable, Accessible Career
Training Program in Virginia.

For people looking to get a job, advance their career, and earn higher wages with benefits to support themselves and their families, FastForward is the quickest, most affordable training program in Virginia.

FastForward is a short-term workforce training program run by Virginia’s Community Colleges. FastForward helps Virginians earn industry credentials and certifications for the most in-demand jobs across the Commonwealth.
Our workforce training programs are based on the needs of local employers, which means our students are in demand for skilled jobs when they graduate. In fact, some of our programs even have guaranteed interview agreements with local businesses. Our expert instructors are veterans in their fields, and our career coaches help students navigate everything from understanding what it takes to earn a credential all the way to securing their first job following a program completion.

Kickstart Your Career with Affordable Training

3,414 views   •   June 8, 2018
FastForward: An Affordable Option in Higher Education

FastForward is one of the most affordable options in higher education in Virginia.

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30 miles or less

FastForward credential training is offered at all of Virginia’s Community Colleges, which means training is available in your community.
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$801

Program costs vary, but the average out-of-pocket cost of a FastForward training course is $801, and financial assistance may cut costs even more.
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6-12 weeks

Our credential programs are just 6–12 weeks, on average, and they’re built so you can continue working while you earn your credential.
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95% completion rate

Thousands of Virginians have enrolled in FastForward training programs to date, with a completion rate of more than 95%.

Enrolling and Completing FastForward at
Virginia’s Community Colleges

1

Meet Your FastForward Coach

FastForward Career Coaches are here to help you explore your training options, plan for your career and guide you at every step along the way.
2

Find Grants and Other Funding

We’ll help you navigate finding financial assistance to help offset some of the FastForward tuition training costs.
3

Register for Training

Sign up for online or in-person training at your local community college. Your Career Coach will advise you on the schedule and type of instruction.
4

Take the Course

Each FastForward program is different, but most run between 6-12 weeks and are a mix of book work and hands-on skills demonstrations. Some programs may offer a short internship or externship before graduating. Your FastForward Career Coach can give you more information about internship opportunities and requirements.
5

Pass Your Credential Certification

Once you earn your credential, you can stack more credentials to advance in your career.

Sample Manufacturing Pathway

Sample Infrastructure Pathway