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LFCC opens career options
In these days of economic downturn, many employees are facing layoffs. It is anticipated by the year 2014, Fauquier County occupations, such as clerks, utility meter readers and photographic machine processors, will be among the top declining jobs. Even computer operators will be on the downward slope, according to the Virginia Employment Commission.
To assist those looking for new professions, Lord Fairfax Community College is offering a variety of educational and training opportunities at both the Fairfax and Middletown campuses. “The college has fast turnaround for professional development for gaining skills immediately,” said Jeanian Clarke, associate vice president of workforce solutions and continuing education.
One such new program is called “Career Switchers, ”offered by Virginia community colleges and available at LFCC in January. Individuals with a bachelor's degree and five years experience can switch jobs and become a teacher after participating in a 16-week program. Clarke said there are 10 key areas with a critical teacher shortage that are eligible for the program.
Those interested must first pass a Praxis II test, which measures knowledge of specific subjects and teaching skills.
LFCC will offer workshops for Praxis test preparation in spring 2009.
After passing the Praxis II and the 16-week program at LFCC, participants will receive a Virginia provisional teacher endorsement during their first year of teaching. A full endorsement can be obtained after a second 16-week program.
“Fauquier County is a very highly educated community," Clarke said. "Residents are incredibly positioned to take advantage of this program.”
She pointed out that LFCC has condensed its non-credit curriculum to be responsive to community needs. Such popular programs as Pharmacy Technicians (www.lfccworkforce.com) have only a five-week curriculum. She also said LFCC has fast-track online courses for many certifications that may be obtained while the student is at home.
There is a fast-track option for credit courses, as well. According to Associate Vice President of Learning Judy Batson, this program is also designed for those interested in pursuing a new career. While the one-to-three semester options prepare students for entry-level positions in trade, health care and business, all of the courses are aligned to lead to associate degrees, if desired.
Although some programs require attending classes at both campuses, Batson said the practical nursing program is a complete curriculum at the Fauquier campus. Students can also become certified as a nursing assistant. “All levels of the nursing field are in demand,” said Batson.
And jobs in demand seems to be the critical need for today's employee.
For more information on the various educational and training options at LFCC, visit www.lfcc.edu.
E-mail the reporter: afelts@timespapers.com.
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