Training Futures graduate Paul Lucas (middle with scissors) cut the ribbon to officially open the program's new location at NOVA's Manassas campus. Contributed photo.

Northern Virginia Family Service (NVFS) and Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) officially opened Training Futures Manassas on May 30 with a ribbon cutting at its new location in Innovation Park Center, an extension of NOVA’s Manassas campus.

NVFS president and CEO Mary Agee greeted the large number of attendees that included Virginia Senators Charles Colgan and George Barker, Delegate Jackson Miller, and many representatives from local businesses and organizations. Then Manassas Provost Roger Ramsammy welcomed everyone to NOVA and expressed his excitement about helping to bring the program to the Prince William area.

Training Futures graduate Paul Lucas talked about the support he was given during the program and how it changed his life. After completing the six-month program, Lucas received a job offer from Inova Fair Oaks where he now works as a patient registrar.

Representing the business community, Carol Jameson, associate CEO at HealthWorks for Northern Virginia, discussed her organization’s relationship with Northern Virginia Family Service and how program graduates are some of the best-prepared employees at HealthWorks.

Prince William Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Rob Clapper, Chief Operating Officer Debbie Jones, and Membership Developer Kris Johnson provided invaluable assistance in setting up the event.

The Training Futures curriculum teaches computer skills, business English, business math, professional development workshops, medical terminology and business communication skills. Trainees are given one-on-one support during their job search with assistance in resume writing, interviewing and business etiquette. In addition, trainees gain valuable business work experience through an internship program. Through a co-enrollment agreement with NOVA, trainees earn 18 college credits and a career studies certificate, giving them a head start on college.

The start date for the first session of Training Futures in Manassas has been changed to June 17 to give potential trainees more time to apply. Trainees pay only for books. To learn more, go to www.nvfs.org/trainingfutures.

By: NOVA Fortnightly Staff

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