FastForward is your Pipeline for Skilled, Qualified Employees.
We know Virginia businesses struggle to hire qualified talent—especially the skilled technicians and technologists who are trained on the equipment specific to your industry and vertical.
That’s why FastForward was created.
FastForward is a grant-funded training program hosted through Virginia’s Community Colleges. We’re here to serve as your community partner. We want to know what your needs are – from the kinds of training and certifications required, to the kind of candidate you’re looking for.
From there, we attract people to enroll in workforce training programs aimed at earning industry-recognized certifications and licenses for a wide variety of in-demand careers. The more we know about the demands in your community, the better we can help train and build that pipeline of future employees.

Most trades programs are eligible for FastFoward Credential Funding which covers 2/3rds the cost of tuition for eligible Virginia residents.
While funding lasts, employers can pay one-third of the cost of tuition on select FastForward programs. FastForward programs are short-term training courses offered through Virginia’s community colleges to help individuals and organizations fast-track workplace skills. Look for the special “FastForward Price” with eligible programs. Virginia residency required for students.
FastForward Eligible Programs
Computers and Technology
- ITIL Foundations Prep and Certification
Learn More About ITIL - CompTIA IT Certifications
Learn More About CompTIA - Amazon Web Services Academy Cloud Foundations Prep and Certification
Learn More About AWS Academy Cloud Foundations
Healthcare
- Nursing Aide Program
Learn More About Nursing Aide
- Medical Assistant (CMA) Full Program
Learn More About CMA
- Medication Aide Program
Learn More about Medication Aide - Medical Scribe Program
Learn More About Medical Scribe - Patient Service Representative (CMAA)
Learn More About PSR (CMAA) - Pharmacy Technician
Learn More About Pharmacy Technician - Phlebotomy Technician
Learn More About Phlebotomy Technician
Manufacturing and Construction Trades
- Mechatronics Program
Learn More About Mechatronics - Construction Project Management
Learn More About Construction Project Management - Electrical Apprenticeship
Learn More About Electrical Apprenticeship Courses - HVAC Apprenticeship
Learn More About HVAC Apprenticeship Courses - Plumbing Apprenticeship
Learn More About Plumbing Apprenticeship Courses - Heavy Equipment Operator
Learn More About Heavy Equipment Operator
Transportation and Logistics
- Commercial Driver’s License
Learn More About CDL-A
FastForward attracts people to enroll in workforce training programs aimed at earning industry-recognized certifications and licenses for a wide variety of in-demand careers. Check out the interview with the folks at S.W. Rodgers about their experience hiring FastForward graduates.