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 training is what we do through FastForward, so while we have dozens of reasons why someone should pursue more training, we’re going to narrow down that list to 10 reasons why career training could be a good idea in 2020.
- Competition for open jobs has gotten tighter. Job listings are down 20% from this time last year, and while the industries FastForward serves weren’t as affected, every little thing you can add to your resume makes you a stronger job applicant.
- Candidates with credentials are 2X more likely to get hired than someone without them, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- There are several workforce-specific funding sources that help offset your training costs. Additionally, some employers will pay for training, and programs like Virginia Ready are incentivizing students for completing specific training and earning a credential.
- It’s a confidence booster! FastForward training comes in two parts: the actual training, then sitting for the certification test (or skills demonstration). You have two opportunities to have BIG wins (with big outcomes).
- Training not only gives you the concrete skills needed to get the job done, but you gain many “soft” skills that employers look for (like meeting deadlines and working with a team).
- Flexibility in training options makes FastForward easier to fit into your life. Online career training and in-person training is available, as are evening and weekend courses.
- FastForward graduates typically see 25-50% increases in their annual wages.
- The impact goes beyond you – it reaches your loved ones. Training not only helps you find a better job to provide for your family, but you’re setting an example about how hard work and dedication pays off.
- Career training through FastForward is designed to meet the needs of employers in your community, so it’s preparing future workers for the jobs that exist in a given community.
- Having credentials under your belt can help you advance in both your career and schooling. More training may mean you’re now eligible for a promotion, and in some cases, your time spent in training can be applied towards an associate degree (check out Credits2Careers, also run through the community colleges).
Looking for help taking your next step? From finding the right training to connecting you with potential employers, a FastForward Career Coach can help you every step of the way. Reach out and connect with your local coach to learn about your options.