The FastForward Grant is a state-funded grant that aims to increase the number of Virginians who have an in-demand industry credential. FastForward provides funds for two-thirds of the cost of training upon completion of the class and related credentialing exam. FastForward participants are required to sign a promissory note agreeing to complete the training and the credentialing exam. If you do not complete the course, you will owe the state funding back. This can be collected through your state tax refund until paid in full.
For example: Tuition for Medical Assisting is $3,210, but after FastForward you only need to pay $1,070. FastForward recipients may qualify for additional assistance that can reduce or eliminate the remaining tuition cost. There are multiple grants available that individuals may qualify for, due to special circumstances or income level, that can reduce the out-of-pocket cost by 90-100 percent.
For full program details, visit https://www.fastforwardva.org/program-details/
Programs currently approved at VWCC
Business
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
Health Care
- Certified Billing and Coding Specialist (CBCS)
- Certified Medical Administrative Assistant (CMAA)
- Certified Nurse Aide
- Medication Aide
- Pharmacy Technician
- Clinical Medical Assistant
IT
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Trades and Manufacturing
- Commercial Driver’s License Class A Endorsement
- Certified Production Technician
- Certified Welder
- Flux Core Arc Welding (FCAW)
- Gas Metal Arc Welding (GMAW)
- Level I CNC Milling: Operations
- Level I CNC Turning: Operations
- Manufacturing Technician 1 (MT1)
Contact Us
Career Path & Funding Assistance:
careernavigators@virginiawestern.edu
Amanda Decker: 540-857-6279
Melissa Marcus: 540-857-6820