TCC and the Fast Forward Grant: The need for additional training and certifications in post high school

This week, Educationally Speaking has looked at the Fast Forward Grant, a state wide program provided to community colleges to bolster employment in critically needed areas. The program provides classes which lead to certifications especially in occupations deemed needed by local industry leaders. According to the bureau of labor statistics, people who held a certification or license had a lower unemployment rate than those who did not by over 2 to 1. Thousands of Virginians have enrolled in fast forward with a completion rate of 90% and the Grant provides an opportunity for training and certifications that enhance the opportunity for post high school employment. According to Emily Richardson, VP for Business and Corporate Solutions at Tidewater Community College, the need for additional training and education after leaving school, is critical to finding employment: