Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions

Adobe Photoshop CC
2025-01-14 - 2027-12-31 | Online 24/7
This course is designed for aspiring creatives seeking to master image editing, retouching, and digital art creation. You'll explore the ins and outs of Photoshop, from navigating the interface to using advanced tools and techniques. You will dive into layers, selections, masks, typography, and even video editing. Get ready to build a wide range of skills, such as color correction, compositing, vector drawing, working with Camera Raw, and mastering Photoshop's AI-powered Neural Filters. By the end of this course, you'll be equipped with the know-how to create stunning visuals for personal projects or professional work, whether you're a graphic designer, photographer, or digital artist. Read the full course description.

Financial Eligibility Application
2026-01-01 17:00 - 18:00 (America/New_York) | Laurel Ridge Workforce Online Class, VIRTUAL - ONLINE
Students will use this method to determine if they qualify for financial assistance.

Web Design Professional Certification Program
2026-04-07 - 2028-12-31 | Online 24/7
Language: English
Short Description: If you’re curious about web design and want to pursue it professionally, then this course will provide you with all the necessary skills required to thrive in the industry. It is a web design certification course targeted at entry-level professionals. What will you learn from this program?In this comprehensive professional certification program, you’ll learn the following things:• Fundamental components of Adobe Creative Cloud.• You’ll learn how to use design elements in InDesign and Illustrator.• Organizing and managing your files using Adobe Bridge.• Creating, using, and editing PDFs using Acrobat.• Basics of website design.• Basics of developing HTML5 standard sites to meet user needs.• Writing thoroughly documented websites.• Creating and preparing websites to “Go Live.”
What to expect after finishing the program?This web design certification course will equip you with experience using real-world projects, and you will build a compelling portfolio that will give you access to this fascinating industry. At the end of this program you’ll be proficient in:• Key industry and design concepts, including design aesthetics, wire frames, video and imagers, color, and writing for the web. • Design and technical skills needed to change a concept into a final product. • Creating a project plan, along with designing and developing quality websites accordingly.• Understanding of future trends and workplace Ethics.
Instructor Description: This class supported by an Educational Mentor. Educational mentors have worked or are working in the subject they mentor. Educational Mentors review student work, student progress, and interact with students as needed. They respond to any questions or concerns you might have, as well as encouraging and motivating you to succeed.
Certification: The Web Professionals Certified Web Designer Apprentice (CWDSA-apprentice) examination measures fundamental competencies for aspiring or practicing Web Designers. The examinee must demonstrate basic knowledge of Internet concepts, HTML5, CSS3 and WYSIWYG (visual) editors, Web graphics, Web multimedia, Web site design, Web site management, and basic legal issues at the standard defined by this test specification. The skills and knowledge measured by this examination are derived from an industry-wide and worldwide job task analysis which was validated through a survey of hundreds of designers. The results of the survey were used in weighting the domains and ensuring that the weighting is representative of the relative importance of that content to the job requirements of a Certified Web Designer Apprentice. The intent is to certify individuals in a body of knowledge that is identified and accepted as the baseline or foundation of any Web Designer.The exam contains 70 questions. Examinees have 60 minutes to complete the exam. The exam is currently only available in English and available at testing centers throughout the U.S.Each state may have additional licensing requirements, be sure to research your states requirements for employment by visiting your states occupation board.

CSS Fundamentals
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
In this introductory course, you will learn how to style web pages using Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) coding language. Topics include using inline, internal, and external CSS, web typography, formatting text, working with web colors, using Google fonts, working with id and class selectors, working with elements, creating page layouts using elements, and CSS box model.

Adobe InDesign Essentials
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
Adobe InDesign is the industry standard page-layout program that works with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop seamlessly. InDesign allows you to create simple to complex multi-page documents such as brochures, flyers, books and magazines. This course is a comprehensive exploration of InDesign tools and capabilities to create professional documents. You will learn how to manage the InDesign environment, create, setup, design, enhance and finalize multi-page documents. Access to Adobe InDesign software required.
One-month course.
Agenda
Unit 1: Getting to Know the Interface and Setting up a Document
-Interface menus
-Tools
-Panels
-Starting and setting up a multi-page document in InDesign
Unit 2: Working with Objects and Color
-Learning to work with color panels
-Creating, managing and applying color to elements
-Inserting and managing images and illustrations into an InDesign document
Unit 3: Working with Text
-Learning about insert and flow text to multiple pages
-Managing long text documents
-Text editing in InDesign documents.
Unit 4: Typography
-Advance typography tools and menus
-Character and paragraph settings and styles
– Creating print-ready PDF files.

Online Advertising
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
Get the keys to making online advertising work for you and your organization. See how pay-per-click advertising with Google AdWords works. Find out how to test low budget AdWord campaigns. Learn how you can target local audiences. Then discover Facebook advertising and how you can determine the demographics and even numbers of people you want to reach. No experience necessary, but if you are at an advanced level, your instructor is an online ad expert and can answer your toughest questions as well.
Agenda
Unit 1
The evolution of online advertising
From mass marketing to targeted marketing
The role of search in online advertising
Return on investment for online advertising
Competing effectively with online advertising
Unit 2
Creating Google AdWord Campaigns
Determining keywords
Selecting your AdWord territory
Understanding pricing strategies
Creating an AdWord budget and evaluation
Unit 3
Improving Online Advertising Results
How SEO and online advertising complement each other
Testing keywords and related keywords
Using Traffic Estimator to improve keyword selection
Successful strategies in using online advertising
Unit 4
Facebook Ads
Understanding Facebook uses and users
Using demographics to target Facebook Ads
Setting up Facebook Ads
Trends and future of online advertising

Integrating Social Media Into Your Organization
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
Take away a practical strategy and techniques for implementing social media for your organization or business. Learn how to create your own private social media using Ning, work socially using Google Docs and calendars, and move your website to an interactive Web 2.0 site. Then your instructor will help you choose which social media tools are right for your situation, and then integrate them into your web site to develop a social media strategy for your organization. Find out what you can be doing, what you should be doing, and take back a plan to integrate social media into your communication and marketing.
Agenda
Unit 1. Running a Community and Creating Your Own Social Network Using Ning
Online Communities and Creating Your Own Social Network with Ning
Top 5 Considerations When Starting a Social Network
What Goes into Build a Great Social Network
What is an online community manager
What is Ning and How to Use the Platform
Examples of Companies Using Ning
Unit 2. What Tools to Use for Your Organization
What tools and platforms will help get content on the web
Readings on top new tools to consider
How to select which tool to use
How video fits into online marketing
Organizing and collaborating with Google products
How to take advantage of mobile and local in applications and search
Unit 3. Integrating Social Platforms into Your Web Site
Discovering how web design has changed and what is needed for true integration
Understanding elements on web sites that increase interaction, engagement, search engines findability
Learn best practices for website usability and landing page design
Discuss how your sites compare and generate next steps that will improve your business
Unit 4: Developing a Manageable Work Flow: Time, Resources, Policies, and Trends
Developing a Manageable Work Flow
Time and Resources: How do you know where to spend your time?
Target Social Media Influencers to Boost Traffic and Sales
Is Your Company Ready for Social Media or Are They Holding You Back?
Trends – What”s Next or Are We Still Working on Last Year”s Trends?
Social Media Policies and Planning For A Crisis
RequirementsInternet connection ,IE8 or higher, Chrome, FireFox and access to Adobe Flash Player

Mastering Microsoft PowerPoint
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
Bring your ideas to life and leave a lasting impression with Microsoft PowerPoint. Master the tools and techniques that turn humdrum slides into dynamic presentations that will captivate your audience. With hands-on practice and real-world examples, learn design principles and multimedia elements such as images, videos, and charts that elevate you to the next level.
Acquire critical know-how to deliver your presentations with confidence and ease. Whether you”re a beginner or a seasoned user, you”ll find new ways to work smarter, not harder. You”ll leave class with in-demand skills and the ability to create professional, visually appealing presentations that will engage your audience and help you stand out.

AI Planning and Strategies
2026-08-03 | Online 24/7
Develop effective AI strategies to solve complex problems across various industries. Gain practical insights into how AI can be harnessed to enhance efficiency and drive innovation. By the end of the course, you will have the skills to create robust AI planning solutions that can adapt to dynamic environments and meet organizational goals.

CompTIA Security+ Prep and Certification
2026-08-17 18:00 - 22:00 | Laurel Ridge Workforce Online Class, VIRTUAL - ONLINE
Do your job responsibilities include securing network services, devices, and traffic? If so, this course is for you. IT professionals need to successfully demonstrate their skill set in order to confidently perform their duties in any security-related role. During this class, you will be able to identify the fundamental components of information security, analyze risk, conduct security assessments to detect vulnerabilities, implement cryptographic solutions in the organization, and so much more. Materials and Exam included.
Pre-requisites: Credential in Network + and or 5 years in IT related field.

Graphic Design Software Essentials Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
The Adobe software tools are the leading software for graphic design. Adobe Illustrator is the industry standard computer illustration software. Use Illustrator to draw shapes and design logos, flyers, posters, banners, business cards or any other vector graphics for print or web. Adobe InDesign is the industry standard page-layout program that works with Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop seamlessly. InDesign allows you to create simple to complex multi-page documents such as brochures, flyers, books and magazines. Use Adobe Photoshop to effectively work with selection and editing tools, layers, and masks to edit, retouch and enhance existing images or create your own composite digital art work. Access to the Adobe software tools required.
Three one-month courses.

WordPress Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
WordPress is the most popular content management system (CMS) for website and blog design. During the first week you will learn or refresh your knowledge of all the initial steps and the required elements for having a website. Then find out how to build a simple WordPress website or blog. Topics include introduction to CMS, WordPress installation and setup, page and content creation, administration, themes (selection, purchase, installation and setup), working with widgets and plugins, and more. Finally, acquire advanced knowledge about WordPress options and features. You will learn how to modify WordPress web pages by hand-coding, learn about simple yet effective search engine optimization (SEO) techniques that improve your website ranking, and much more. After successfully completing the WordPress Certificate you will know how to build a WordPress website or blog, customize your WordPress site by hand-coding HTML, CSS, and PHP, know necessary regular WordPress maintenance, create WordPress website backup, and know how to apply SEO techniques in WordPress.
Three one-month courses.

Podcasting
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Businesses are turning to podcasting to grow their brand and connect with customers. People with a niche hobby are turning podcasts into a business. Podcasting is experiencing a rebirth as mobile devices are everywhere. The intimate nature of the audio medium allows potential clients to get to know who you are and determine if you are the kind of company with which they want to do business. Learn how to take your business or hobby and turn it into a podcast. This step-by-step class will take you from start to finish and cover the required elements needed to get your show online. Come to class with your idea and end with your show online for all to hear.
Agenda
Unit 1
Starting a Podcast for Businesses or Pleasure
What is a podcast and how it works
Finding your target audience and goals
What type of podcast will work for your clients: interview style, panel discussions, host lectures
How long your show should be and what should you call it
What realistic expectations and options are for the total number of shows you will produce
Including Audio and Video options of your shows
Unit 2
Setting-up your Show
Best equipment for you (microphones, computers, headphones, mixing boards) – budget options as well as full professional set up
Finding audio files to make the “bumpers” for your show
Options for editing files on a mac or PC
Where to host your show files and setting up a website
Submitting to iTunes, Stitcher and other podcast directories
Unit 3
Recording Your Podcast
How to set up a studio in your home
What is a good on-the-go podcast set up?
Talking to others outside of your business
Tips on recording your podcast for good audio quality
Setting up simple camera and lights if you are incorporating video
Unit 4
Marketing and Promoting Your Podcast
Getting the word out about your show
Making money with subscriptions
Building a community around your podcast
Reaching current AND new clients
How to use your podcast to grow your leadership position in your industry
Being an effective marketer without being an obnoxious sales person

Improving Email Promotions
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Discover new ways to improve your email promotions, including when to email, what to email, and testing email copy. Then find out how to analyze your email response rates, including getting the bench marks for open rates and click through rates. Learn how to improve your email promotion and responses with tracking and testing. Get a basic introduction to email promotions. If you are advanced, your instructor is an email expert and can answer your toughest questions as well.
Agenda
Unit 1
Why email marketing
Targeting promotions in the Internet Age
Return on Investment (ROI) for email promotions
The importance of permission marketing, relevant content, and opt-out options
Integrating email promotion with other kinds of marketing
Unit 2
How email works
How commercial email vendors function
Analyzing Open, click through and conversion rates
Cleaning and updating email lists
How HTML and text emails differ
Unit 3
Writing email copy
Writing a good subject line
Writing email body copy
Writing response and action copy
Design and formatting email promotions
Unit 4
Testing and tracking emails
Frequency and best times to email
How to test different emails
Following up on inquiries
Creating a one year email marketing plan

Digital Marketing Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Come get a fundamental yet advanced introduction to eMarketing, including improving email promotions, analyzing your website traffic, doing search engine optimization, and how to successfully employ online advertising.
Relevant for any type of organization, including businesses, companies, non-profits, and government agencies. No eMarketing experience or expertise is necessary. If you are already at an advanced level, your instructors are experts and can provide the latest most advanced information and answer your toughest questions.
Three one month courses.

Social Media for Business Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Get in on this exciting and growing way to communicate, market and serve your customers and clients. For businesses, nonprofits, government, and other organizations. From Facebook to Twitter, blogging, YouTube, LinkedIn, and more, discover the new principles of communication that apply across all networks and how these specific social networks work and the possible uses for your organization. Learn how social networks are used to develop a two-way communication and marketing strategy for your organization. Then find out what you can be doing, what you should be doing, and take back a plan to integrate social networks into your communication and marketing. Whether you are new to social networks or already involved, you will come away with both an understanding of social networks and practical, how-to techniques to integrate social networks into your organization or business. Your instructors are outstanding practitioners who also speak, write, and train others on social networks.
Three one-month courses.

Coding Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Coding is becoming one of the most in-demand skills in the workplace today. As a result, coding has become a core skill that bolsters one’s chances for becoming a higher value to organizations. The highest demand is for programming languages with broad applicability. Begin by getting introduced to the basics of computer programming and various programming languages. Then go to the next level and acquire all the basics of HTML and CSS. You will learn the relationship between these two industry-standard web page coding languages and the step by step process of hand coding and building web pages. Finally, discover the advanced features of CSS and learn how to use this very powerful language.
Three one-month courses.

Adobe Illustrator Essentials
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Adobe Illustrator is the industry standard computer illustration software. Use Illustrator to draw shapes and design logos, flyers, posters, banners, business cards or any other vector graphics for print or web. In this course, you will learn Adobe Illustrator fundamentals to set up a print document and use various tools to draw, type and color all kinds of shapes and illustrations. Learn how to efficiently manage layers and artboards, and create print-ready PDF documents. Access to Adobe Illustrator software required.
One-month course.
Agenda
Unit 1: Getting to Know the Interface and Drawing Tools
-Interface menus, tools and panels.
-Working with various drawing and transformation tools
-Drawing anything from simple to complex shapes and illustrations.
Unit 2: Working with Color and Text
-Working with color panels in the software
-Creating, managing and applying color and color groups
-Learning how to type and format text using various text formatting and styling tools and panels.
Unit 3: Working with Layers and Pen tool
-Layers and layer management
-Working with the Pen tool
-Modifying a drawing using Pen tool options.
Unit 4: Working with Artboards
-Creating and managing multiple Artboards
-Learning how to layout and design corporate package
-Business cards, letterhead and envelopes
-Creating print-ready PDF files.

Certificate in Mastering Computer Skills for the Workplace
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Get hands-on experience with the most widely used computer programs in the world, and take away the skills to create professional documents, presentations, and spreadsheets.
Whether you”re looking to enhance your current career or launch a new one, this certificate program will equip you with the skills you need to succeed in today”s digital world.
Earn a certificate that demonstrates your mastery of computer skills for the workplace by taking all three classes in this series. Discover the power of Microsoft Excel to create, edit and manage spreadsheets, master the art of professional document creation with Microsoft Word, and bring your proposals and presentations to life with Microsoft PowerPoint.

Introduction to ChatGPT
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Unlock the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) with ChatGPT, the fastest-growing app in the world. With over 100 million users within the first two months of launch, discover why everyone is talking about this revolutionary platform. In this course, you”ll learn how AI tools can dramatically increase your productivity and provide you with a competitive advantage in the workplace. Designed for anyone seeking to acquire new skills, you’ll gain an understanding of the capabilities of AI tools and how to leverage them to achieve your goals faster and easier than ever before. Don”t get left behind in the AI revolution – join this course and learn how to capitalize on the opportunities it presents. Whether you”re a seasoned professional or just starting out, this course is for you. Take the first step towards unlocking your full potential with ChatGPT.

AI Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Give your organization a competitive advantage with Artificial Intelligence (AI). And position yourself in an emerging knowledge specialty and growth area.
Explore what AI can do to reduce costs, gather more and better business data, automate time-consuming tasks, improve efficiency, lower human error, reallocate staff time for higher priority functions, and more.
Then master the concepts and fundamental techniques of implementing AI. Finally, develop an AI plan and strategy to deliver results for your workplace.
Walk away with the knowledge and confidence to help lead your organization into this exciting new area of business expertise.

Graphic Design Foundation Certificate
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Throughout history, from the earliest carvings in stone to today’s digital designs, graphic design has been the foundation of effective visual communication. Whether you”re designing a logo, building a website, or crafting a magazine layout, the right graphic design can transform your work from ordinary to exceptional.
Build the skills to confidently choose the perfect graphic design for any project, creating work that is not only visually stunning but also functionally effective.

Introduction to Social Media
2026-09-08 | Online 24/7
Get involved in the move from in-person to online communication. Learn what social media are and their role in your business and personal life. Find out the top sites and how businesses are using the sites for communication, customer retention, branding, marketing, market research, needs assessment and serving customers and clients. Explore the options for your organization. Look at case studies of what other organizations are doing. Let your instructor guide your exploration of Facebook and YouTube. For anyone interested in social media.
Agenda
Unit 1: How Marketing has Changed and Where Social Networks Fit?
How is marketing changing?
Who is your customer & where are they online?
What role does content play?
What are the trends on the horizon?
Unit 2: Where to Start? Strategy, Listening, & Accounts
Start with a plan: Developing a social media marketing strategy.
Where does listening & engagement fit into strategy?
Learning to use some basic tools
How are organizations using social media?
Unit 3: What Do Social Networks Fit in Your Business?
General overview of social sites that may fit your marketing goals.
Where are your customers and how are they using social media?
How to set up social network profiles?
Can you measure the return on your investment?
Unit 4: Using Facebook to Promote Your Brand and Engage Your Customers
The Basics of Facebook: Personal & Business Applications
How to Set-up Your Facebook Page
Using Content and Posts to Boost Engagement
Case Studies on How Businesses Use Facebook
RequirementsInternet connection ,IE8 or higher, Chrome, FireFox and access to Adobe Flash Player

CompTIA A+ Prep and Certification
2026-09-08 17:00 - 21:00 | Laurel Ridge Middletown Campus, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA, 22654, United States
In this course, we will cover both the Core 1 and Core 2 exam objectives. With this highly interactive course, you will learn the IT essentials needed to successfully pass the CompTIA A+ Certification Exam. Your first module (220-1201) will concentrate on PC hardware and peripherals, mobile device hardware, and learning how to troubleshoot hardware and network connectivity issues through hands-on labs and real world examples. Your second module (220-1202) will specifically cover installing and configuring operating systems such as Windows, iOS, Android, Apple OS X and Linux. Additionally, you will learn and apply methods from two highly-sought areas in Cybersecurity and Cloud Computing. This course will prepare you to take and pass the CompTIA A+ exam, boosting opportunities for your IT career. Both exams and all materials are included.
Prerequisites: Successful completion and credential in CompTIA Tech +.

CompTIA A+ Prep and Certification
2026-09-10 17:00 - 21:00 | Laurel Ridge Fauquier Campus, 6480 College Street, Warrenton, VA, 20187, United States

CompTIA Server+ Prep and Certification
2026-09-14 17:00 - 21:00 | Laurel Ridge Middletown Campus, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA, 22654, United States
CompTIA Server+ is designed for IT professionals who work with server hardware and software, including server administrators, system administrators, and data center technicians. It is a valuable certification for those who want to demonstrate their expertise in server-related tasks and responsibilities. This course will cover the following key areas server hardware and software, server virtualization, storage solutions, network infrastructure, security, and disaster recovery. Materials and exam included.
Pre-requisite: Credential in CompTIA Tech+ and CompTIA A+

CompTIA Cloud+ Prep and Certification
2026-09-15 17:00 - 21:00 | Laurel Ridge Middletown Campus, 173 Skirmisher Lane, Middletown, VA, 22654, United States
This course will validate student skills to implement, maintain, optimize, and troubleshoot cloud infrastructure services. This course will cover basic cloud architecture, deployment, operations, security, DevOps fundamentals, and troubleshooting. All materials and exam included. This course is very fast paced. An additional 20 hours or more of study time outside of class hours will be expected. Students must have reliable internet at home to be able to complete the labs and other assigned homework. Instructors will provide students all materials and codes on the first day of class. Instructors will provide students specific dates and instructions for testing. Individuals should have a moderate understanding computer skills and knowledge. Prerequisite: CompTIA A+ Certification or 9-12 months experience working in cloud systems role.

Marketing Using Social Media
2026-10-05 | Online 24/7
Develop a two-way communication and marketing strategy for your organization using social media. Let your instructor guide you in exploring major social media, including Twitter, LinkedIn, and blogging. Learn quick, easy ways to use Twitter, blogs and LinkedIn to engage your customers or clients and keep them interested in your organization or business. You’ll find out the advantages and disadvantages of each, and learn what’s right for your work and kind of organization.
Agenda
Unit 1.
Social media as two-way communication
The customer-business relationship
The power of viral marketing
Building customer loyalty with social media
Using social media to brand your organization
Unit 2.
Creating, marketing and communicating using Blogs
How blogs got started
Writing blogs for work and business
Marketing and promoting your blog
Business strategies for blogs
Unit 3.
How to use Twitter
Uniqueness of Twitter
Creating tweets and messages
Doing research and information gathering with Twitter
Integrating Twitter with other publicity
Unit 4.
LinkedIn: a social media for professionals
Why businesses and professionals use LinkedIn
How LinkedIn distinguishes itself among social networks
Getting connected with LinkedIn
Case studies and examples of business and professional uses
RequirementsInternet connection ,IE8 or higher, Chrome, FireFox and access to Adobe Flash Player

Intermediate AI
2026-10-05 | Online 24/7
Dive deeper into the fascinating world of artificial intelligence. Explore machine learning algorithms, natural language processing, and neural networks, while gaining hands-on experience with popular AI frameworks and tools. Take your AI expertise to the next level.

Boosting Your Website Traffic
2026-10-05 | Online 24/7
Acquire the basic skills to boost your website traffic, including how to analyze your visitor traffic, how to use search engine optimization to get greater visibility and exposure in Google searches, and how to redesign your web site copy to increase your visitors and results. No experience necessary, but if you are at an advanced level, your instructor is an SEO expert and can answer your toughest questions as well.
Agenda
Unit 1
Why web site analysis works
Why web site managers analyze their visitor traffic
Creating goals and objectives for your web site
Understanding the web site visitor experience
How data analysis can improve web site outcomes
Unit 2
How Google Analytics functions
Setting up Google Analytics accounts
Analyzing traffic sources and visitor traffic
Redesigning pages to improve retention
Testing web site versions with Google Optimizer
Unit 3
Search Engine Optimization
Understanding how page ranking and positions are determined
Redesigning the title bar, alt tags, heading area, and links your URL
Keyword density and rewriting web page copy
Strategies to improve your page rank
Unit 4
Moving to Web 2.0
Generation Y and the Web 2.0 Attitude
Developing user-created content
Creating interactive web sites
The future of web sites
