Reach new heights with Roanoke’s premier workforce partner.

I work for the United States Forest Service and needed a Class A CDL, but my agency’s budget did not cover the training and I couldn’t afford it on my own. That led me to Greater Roanoke Workforce Development Board and the Fast Forward program through Mountain Gateway Community College. Once I connected with the right people, the process was straightforward. The team was responsive, answered my questions, and kept me on track throughout the program. This partnership made it possible for me to complete the training and earn my Class A CDL, something that otherwise would not have been possible. I recommend MGCC and Greater Roanoke Works for anyone looking to further their education, training, and experience!

Six months ago, I was battling drug addiction and uncertainty about my future when I connected with Virginia Career Works. That moment gave me hope and introduced me to a new path forward. My career coach shared opportunities with me, especially the chance to earn my Class A CDL, and I was awarded a scholarship that covered classroom training, driving instruction, and my DOT physical. With that support, I completed the program and was hired by Western Express as a professional driver, and I’m now traveling the country, earning a great income and building a stable future.

I attended a SparkForce camp through Salem, which is how I learned about Virginia Career Works. I was paired with a career coach who supported me before and after the camp through a Work Experience (WEX), helping me access supportive services like work boots that were fully covered and that I can continue using in my job. Through the camp, I met my future employers at Graham-White Manufacturing Company and was hired full-time as an Assembler, gaining hands-on experience that helped me better understand my career path and secure a job similar to the work I trained for. Having a career coach to help with things like time sheets, resources, and job opportunities made a big difference, and I would definitely recommend the program to anyone trying to figure out their career path or needing support along the way.