WELCOME

WORKFORCE & CONTINUING EDUCATION

GREETINGS SHENANDOAH VALLEY,

Workforce and Continuing Education of Blue Ridge Community College would like to welcome you to a unique fall semester. While COVID-19 has affected us all in many ways, we have flexed our training formats to be primarily online. For courses that meet in person, we have developed excellent social distancing plans for everyone’s safety, all with the goal of providing you the best experience in certification attainment. Although we are in a different environment, we have never been more excited about the opportunities available to our community looking for short-term training leading to good paying, in-demand careers. In addition to the FastForward discounts for all Virginia residents, and financial aid for low-income individuals, “Virginia Ready” will further support the unemployed looking for a new pathway by providing a $1,000 credential achievement award. These financial assistance programs give you a wonderful chance to earn a nationally recognized industry credential in healthcare, IT, Transportation or manufacturing or develop professionally. Earning an industry certification will equip you to pursue employment in an exciting, good paying career field. Additionally, you will find many other opportunities for professional development and personal enrichment through courses like “Conflict Management”, “How to Give and Receive Feedback”, “Ukulele”, and “Zentangle”, just to name a few. Of course, it is always a good time for taking classes that are full of fun and free of pressure from grades or exams. We truly hope you will take a few minutes to learn more in the pages that follow and avail yourself of the offerings that we have worked hard to create for learning and self-improvement, many from the comfort of your own home.

Check us out. I know you will be glad you did. And, when your class is over, send me a note and let me know how we are doing! Sincerely, Dr. Kevin Ratliff Dean, Workforce & Continuing Education ratliffk@brcc.edu