Virginia Seeks to Expand FastForward Workforce Training Program

Additional funding would allow more residents to access affordable credentials in high-demand fields

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Virginia General Assembly is considering budget amendments that would add $19 million to expand the FastForward program, which provides state financial aid to people pursuing non-credit workforce credentials at the state's community colleges. FastForward has proven successful, but its growth has strained resources, leading to concerns that some trainees may be priced out or classes may be canceled. The additional funding would allow the program to keep up with demand and ensure more Virginians can access affordable training for high-paying jobs.

Why it matters

Workforce development and skills training are critical to addressing affordability challenges in Virginia. FastForward has demonstrated its ability to help workers gain the credentials needed for well-paying jobs in high-demand fields, benefiting both individuals and employers. Expanding the program would provide more Virginians the opportunity to build rewarding skilled trade careers.

The details

FastForward was created by the Virginia General Assembly 10 years ago to provide state financial aid for non-credit workforce credentials at community colleges. The program covers two-thirds of the training cost if the person completes the course and earns a credential. A recent report found the program has been successful, with trainees demonstrating stronger skills and higher retention rates than their peers. However, the program's growth has strained its resources, leading to concerns that trainees may have to pay the full cost or classes may be canceled if funding runs out before the end of the year.

  • The Virginia General Assembly is currently in session and considering budget amendments for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.

The players

Xavier Beale

Vice president of human resources at Newport News Shipbuilding, a division of HII, and chair of the Virginia Board of Workforce Development.

Jason Parker

President of the Virginia State Building and Construction Trades Council, secretary-treasurer of the Virginia AFL-CIO, and a member of the Virginia Board of Workforce Development.

Sen. Aaron Rouse

Virginia state senator who introduced a budget amendment to add $19 million in funding for the FastForward program.

Del. David Reid

Virginia state delegate who introduced a budget amendment to add $19 million in funding for the FastForward program.

Gov. Abigail Spanberger

Governor of Virginia.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We immediately benefit from hiring FastForward trainees. They come in on day one with stronger skills than their peers who have not participated in similar training, and FastForward trainees are more likely to remain in their jobs one year after hire.”

— Xavier Beale, Vice president of human resources at Newport News Shipbuilding (dailypress.com)

“Workforce credentials are a tool helping thousands of people achieve that goal. FastForward is the tool that makes those credentials accessible and affordable.”

— Jason Parker, President of the Virginia State Building and Construction Trades Council (dailypress.com)

What’s next

The Virginia General Assembly is expected to vote on the budget amendments that would provide additional funding for the FastForward program in the coming weeks.

The takeaway

Expanding the FastForward program would give more Virginians access to affordable workforce training, helping them gain the skills needed for well-paying jobs in high-demand fields and addressing affordability challenges in the state.