CTE Resources

Career and technical education (CTE) involves educational programs that provide students with the technical and professional skills to succeed in the workplace and throughout their career. CTE programs are designed to meet the needs of employers while providing pathways to lifelong learning and family-sustaining careers, often taught through hands-on learning and on-the-job experience. CTE can be a good fit for any students! Use these resources to learn more.

• FastForward is a short-term workforce training program to train Virginians for industry credentials and certifications for the most in-demand jobs across the state. Through Virginia’s 23 Community Colleges, FastForward provides skilled training for individuals based on the in-demand careers in their region for little or no cost to students. Most FastForward programs take between 6-12 weeks and are flexible so students maintain employment while participating in the program. FastForward offerings vary from school to school due to the varying needs of each community.

• The Virginia G3 Grant is a last dollar scholarship that provides tuition assistance for Virginia residents who qualify for state financial aid with a household income less than $100K. The program is limited to select programs in five of Virginia’s most in-demand industries, including Early Childhood Education, Healthcare, Information Technology, Public Safety, and Skilled Trades (construction and manufacturing).

• VA DOLI Registered Apprenticeship Program is an employment training model that produces highly skilled workers to meet the demands of employers competing in a global economy, through a combination of paid on-the-job training and related technical instruction. Apprentices participate in occupation-related instruction to earn a nationally recognized credential and increased earning potential. Here are the most recent Registered Apprenticeship job postings!

• Job Corps is the largest free residential employment training program for youth ages 16-24 in the United States. This federally-funded comprehensive program provides essential academic and career skills training, while preparing students for success in every aspect of their lives. Job Corps has three locations in VA (Old Dominion Center, Flatwoods Center, and Blue Ridge Center) and with 8-24 months of training in one of 82 high-demand career paths, students graduate with preparation for a successful career.

• The Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Youth Program is a federally funded program designed to assist eligible youth in achieving academic and occupational success. This program offers a comprehensive array of services to help students to overcome barriers to employment with free training, internships, SAT and GED prep, tutoring, and career exploration for eligible youth ages 17-24.