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Programs & Credentials

Here are the trainings that match your search criteria.

And did you know, the average out-of-pocket cost is often less than $1,000? If you like what you see, to get started, fill out the form at the bottom of the page, or contact your local community college directly.

Certified Mission Critical Operator

ENGR 6650003
Section Code: 2312
A Certified Mission Critical Operator (CMCO) is responsible for operating, monitoring, and maintaining the essential infrastructure that keeps mission critical facilities—such as data centers—running without interruption. They ensure power, cooling, networking, and safety systems perform reliably, and they respond quickly to incidents to prevent downtime. The certification program is a 12 week course covering a wide range of foundational topics, including power and power sources, power distribution, HVAC, plumbing, fire safety, physical security, networking basics, and other vital systems that support continuous facility operations. This comprehensive curriculum prepares operators to... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Sep 01, 2026 End Date: Nov 19, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Fiber Optic Installer

BLDG 6000050
Section Code: 1574
Fiber Optic Installers are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing fiber optic cables and related equipment. Fiber optic installers typically work in various industries such as telecommunications, internet service providers, cable television companies, and data centers. This program will cover basics of fiber and transmission theory, various cables and connectors, splicing, installation, and more. No experience necessary. All materials and exam included. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Sep 14, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Core Craft Skills Plumbing Level 1

BLDG 6000021
Section Code: 1927
This class serves as the foundation to all trade apprenticeship programs. Students will learn the necessary basics to start a career in any skilled trade. Topics covered in this class are: Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, Introduction to Power Tools, Introduction to Construction Drawings, Basic Communication Skills, Basic Employability Skills, and Introduction to Materials Handling. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Jan 18, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Core Craft Skills Electrical Level 1

BLDG 6000021
Section Code: 2215
This class serves as the foundation to all trade apprenticeship programs. Students will learn the necessary basics to start a career in any skilled trade. Topics covered in this class are: Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, Introduction to Power Tools, Introduction to Construction Drawings, Basic Communication Skills, Basic Employability Skills, and Introduction to Materials Handling. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Jan 25, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Core Craft Skills HVAC Level 1

BLDG 6000021
Section Code: 2229
This class serves as the foundation to all trade apprenticeship programs. Students will learn the necessary basics to start a career in any skilled trade. Topics covered in this class are: Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, Introduction to Power Tools, Introduction to Construction Drawings, Basic Communication Skills, Basic Employability Skills, and Introduction to Materials Handling. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Jan 25, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Electrical Level 1

ELEC 6150008
Section Code: 2211
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This program is eligible for G3 Grants that cover 1/3 of the cost of the class – based on financial eligibility. These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. Electrical 1 Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $3,597 FANTIC cost: $2,398 Course Description: This class serves as the first... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Jan 25, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Plumbing Level 1

PLMB 6350009
Section Code: 1928
This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. If you have been a Virginia resident for at least the past 12 months, you may be able to take this class for 1/3 of the full cost (FastForward price) or at $0 cost if you qualify for G3. See our G3 Financial Assistance Grant information. Please contact our office via phone (540-868-7021) or email WorkforceAID@LaurelRidge.edu prior to registering. Plumbing Level 1 Apprenticeship Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price:... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Jan 18, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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CDL-A Weekday Class

TRNS 8020003
Section Code: 1895
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This program is eligible for FANTIC Grants that cover 1/3 of the cost of the class – based on financial eligibility. These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. CDL Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $6,000 FANTIC cost: $4,000 Course Prerequisites: A valid, unrestricted driver’s license. This license... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Aug 27, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick)

WELD 6400020
Section Code: 2173
This class will focus on shielded metal arc welding, commonly referred to as stick welding. Guided by industry expert instructors, students will receive comprehensive training and will learn to perform fillet welds in horizontal (2F), vertical (3F), and overhead (4F) positions. Students will learn basic skills including welding and grinding safety protocols, causes and cures for welding defects, and welding procedures. Using newly acquired skills, students will attempt the D1.1 SMAW plate welder exam aligned with the American Welding Society (AWS). Supplies and testing are included in the tuition for... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 03, 2026 End Date: Nov 04, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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HVAC Level 2

HVAC 6250015
Section Code: 2230
Course Description: This class serves as the second level of training in the HVAC craft. Structured as a hybrid class, a combination of online training and live classroom/lab training, students learn the following content: Commercial Airside Systems; Chimneys, Vents, and Flues; Introduction to Hydronic Systems; Air Quality Equipment; Leak Detection, Evacuation, Recovery, and Charging; Alternating Current; Basic Electronics; Introduction to Circuit Troubleshooting; Troubleshooting Gas Heating; Troubleshooting Cooling; Heat Pumps; Basic Installation and Maintenance Practices; Sheet Metal Duct Systems. Students are required to purchase the current HVAC Code book... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 04, 2026 End Date: Jan 12, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Electrical Level 2

ELEC 6150009
Section Code: 2212
Course Description: This class serves as the second level of training in the Electrical craft. Structured as a hybrid class, a combination of online training and live classroom/lab training, students learn the following content: Alternating Current Motors: Theory & Application Electric Lighting Conduit Bending Pull and Junction Boxes Conductor Installations Cable Tray Conductor Terminations & Splices Grounding and Bonding Circuit Breakers & Fuses Control Systems & Fundamental Concepts Students are required to purchase the current Electrical Code book for class. Computer and internet access are required for this hybrid... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 04, 2026 End Date: Jan 12, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Plumbing Level 2

PLMB 6350010
Section Code: 1938
This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. If you have been a Virginia resident for at least the past 12 months, you may be able to take this class for 1/3 of the full cost (FastForward price) or at $0 cost if you qualify for G3. See our G3 Financial Assistance Grant information. Please contact our office via phone (540-868-7021) or email WorkforceAID@LaurelRidge.edu prior to registering. Plumbing Level 2 Apprenticeship Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price:... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 04, 2026 End Date: Jan 19, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW/Flux)

WELD 6400021
Section Code: 2240
This class will focus on flux core arc welding, commonly referred to as flux welding. Guided by industry expert instructors, students will receive comprehensive training and will learn proper welding techniques using .045 wire in various positions. Other topics covered include equipment set-up, proper adjustment, and safe use of other welding equipment including grinders. Using newly acquired skills, students will attempt the D1.1 SMAW plate welder exam aligned with the American Welding Society (AWS). Supplies and testing are included in the tuition for this class. Proper attire, including closed toe... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 04, 2026 End Date: Oct 29, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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HVAC Level 3

HVAC 6250016
Section Code: 2231
Course Description: This class serves as the third year of training in the HVAC craft. Structured as a hybrid class, a combination of online training and live classroom/lab training, students learn the following content: Refrigerants and Oils; Compressors; Metering Devices; Retail Refrigeration Systems; Commercial Hydronic Systems; Steam Systems; Planned Maintenance; Water Treatment; Troubleshooting Electronic Controls; Troubleshooting Oil Heating; Troubleshooting Heat Pumps; Troubleshooting Accessories. Textbook, Online Access Code, and all materials are included. Students are required to purchase the current HVAC Code book for class. Computer and internet access are... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 05, 2026 End Date: Jan 20, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Electrical Level 3

ELEC 6150010
Section Code: 2213
Course Description: This class serves as the third level of training in the Electrical craft. Structured as a hybrid class, a combination of online training and live classroom/lab training, students learn the following content: Load Calculations-Branch and Feeder Circuits Conductor Selection & Calculations Practical Applications and Lighting Hazardous Locations Overcurrent Protection Distribution Equipment Transformers Commercial Electrical Services Motor Calculations Voice/Data/Video Motor Controls Students are required to purchase the current Electrical Code book for class. Computer and internet access are required for this hybrid class. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 05, 2026 End Date: Jan 20, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Plumbing Level 3

PLMB 6350011
Section Code: 1939
This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. If you have been a Virginia resident for at least the past 12 months, you may be able to take this class for 1/3 of the full cost (FastForward price) or at $0 cost if you qualify for G3. See our G3 Financial Assistance Grant information. Please contact our office via phone (540-868-7021) or email WorkforceAID@LaurelRidge.edu prior to registering. Plumbing Level 3 Apprenticeship Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price:... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 05, 2026 End Date: Jan 20, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Electrical Level 4

ELEC 6150011
Section Code: 2214
Course Description: This class serves as the fourth level of training in the Electrical craft. Structured as a hybrid class, a combination of online training and live classroom/lab training, students learn the following content: Load Calculations-Feeders & Services Health Care Facilities Standby and Emergency Systems Basic Electronic Theory Fire Alarm Systems Specialty Transformers Heat Tracing and Freeze Protection Motor Operation and Maintenance Medium Voltage Termination/Splices Special Locations Fundamentals of Crew Leadership Students are required to purchase the current Electrical Code book for class. Computer and internet access are... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 06, 2026 End Date: Jan 21, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Plumbing Level 4

PLMB 6350012
Section Code: 1940
This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. If you have been a Virginia resident for at least the past 12 months, you may be able to take this class for 1/3 of the full cost (FastForward price) or at $0 cost if you qualify for G3. See our G3 Financial Assistance Grant information. Please contact our office via phone (540-868-7021) or email WorkforceAID@LaurelRidge.edu prior to registering. Plumbing Level 4 Apprenticeship Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price:... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 06, 2026 End Date: Jan 21, 2027
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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CDL-A Weekend Class

TRNS 8020004
Section Code: 1876
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This program is eligible for FANTIC Grants that cover 1/3 of the cost of the class – based on financial eligibility. These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. CDL Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $6,000 FANTIC cost: $4,000 Course Prerequisites: A valid, unrestricted driver’s license. This license... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 08, 2026 End Date: Sep 27, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Mechatronics: Fundamentals of Electricity

ELEC 5050082
Section Code: 1868
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. Mechatronics Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $1,797 Course Description: Earn 2 credentials in just 7 weeks! Decrease production downtime, improve efficiency and increase output – All hinge on understanding electricity and how to... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 12, 2026 End Date: Sep 28, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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CompTIA Security+ Prep and Certification

ITEC 3100492
Section Code: 2155
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. CompTIA Security+ Prep Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $2,895 Prerequisite: CompTIA Network+ Certification or IT degree completion within the last 5 years. Students are required to have a working camera and the camera... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Aug 17, 2026 End Date: Sep 24, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Medical Assistant Program (CCMA)

HLTH 4300148
Section Code: 1845
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. Medical Assistant Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $3,900 Prerequisite: HS Diploma, GED, or you are scheduled to earn your GED within the next 12 months. Computer and regular internet access are required Mandatory In... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Apr 07, 2026 End Date: Aug 13, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Pharmacy Technician Program

HLTH 4300465
Section Code: 1838
SPECIAL NOTICE* Virginia state funding for FastForward programs will be significantly reduced starting June 6, 2025. Please contact us to explore available funding options by emailing us at workforce@laurelridge.edu or calling at 540-868-7021. This is a G3 FastForward Grant Program: These programs are short-term training courses resulting in industry credentials for high-demand professions in our region. Pharmacy Technician Program Pricing: Regular/Full Price: $3,585 Course Description: Get started today on an exciting career path! The Pharmacy Technician Program is a comprehensive and engaging educational experience designed to equip aspiring... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: Apr 21, 2026 End Date: Jul 07, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW/Stick) FP

WELD 6400020
Section Code: 1969
This class will focus on shielded metal arc welding, commonly referred to as stick welding. Guided by industry expert instructors, students will receive comprehensive training and will learn to perform fillet welds in horizontal (2F), vertical (3F), and overhead (4F) positions. Students will learn basic skills including welding and grinding safety protocols, causes and cures for welding defects, and welding procedures. Using newly acquired skills, students will attempt the D1.1 SMAW plate welder exam aligned with the American Welding Society (AWS). Supplies and testing are included in the tuition for... Read Full Course Description
Start Date: May 04, 2026 End Date: Jul 06, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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Core Craft Skills Heavy Equipment

BLDG 6000021
Section Code: 1941
This class serves as the foundation to all trade apprenticeship programs. Students will learn the necessary basics to start a career in any skilled trade. Topics covered in this class are: Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, Introduction to Power Tools, Introduction to Construction Drawings, Basic Communication Skills, Basic Employability Skills, and Introduction to Materials Handling. Read Full Course Description
Start Date: May 26, 2026 End Date: Aug 06, 2026
Community College: Laurel Ridge
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