Northern Virginia Family Services (NVFS) is celebrating the 30th anniversary of Training Futures this September, marking three decades of its nationally recognized workforce development program that has helped thousands with professional training, career coaching, and personalized support to meet the evolving workforce needs of Northern Virginia.
“For 30 years, the Training Futures program has provided critical tools and resources to help individuals achieve greater economic mobility, build meaningful careers, and contribute their talents to strengthen our region,” said Stephanie Berkowitz, president and CEO Northern Virginia Family Services. “This milestone is a celebration of our graduates and a reminder that talent is everywhere, but access to opportunity is not. Training Futures helps bridge that gap.”
Since 1996, Training Futures has transformed the lives of more than 2,800 individuals, helping them to launch and grow their professional careers and achieve long-term economy stability. Through a simulated office environment, trainees build in-demand technical and digital skills alongside essential power skills, gaining hands-on experience that prepares them for careers with real advancement potential. This includes resume preparation, interview practice, and individualized career coaching.
“A lot has changed over the past 30 years,” said Janice Halowich, program manager of Training Futures at NVFS. “From hybrid work schedules to the emergence of AI, the modern workplace has evolved in ways that were difficult to predict when the program was founded. While the careers our graduates pursue today may look different from those of the past, our approach to workforce development remains effective because it continues to adapt. At its core, Training Futures helps people create transformational change by providing the tools, opportunities, and support to achieve their vision of success.”
Among the thousands whose lives have been transformed is Karla Escobar, who came to Training Futures, looking to build a more stable future for herself and her four children. Through the program, Karla strengthened her professional skills and confidence, helping her launch a new career in banking and secure stable housing for her family.
“Training Futures opened the door to a better life,” Karla shared. “I am stable. I am hopeful. And I believe in myself.”
Karla’s story is a testament to the impact of Training Futures and the opportunities the program has created for thousands of graduates over the past three decades. As Training Futures celebrates its 30th anniversary, NVFS remains committed to helping more individuals recognize their potential, build confidence, and equip them with the tools and skills needed to succeed in today’s workforce and build lasting careers as the workforce in Northern Virginia continues to evolve.
For more information about the Training Futures program, please visit this page.
“For 30 years, the Training Futures program has provided critical tools and resources to help individuals achieve greater economic mobility, build meaningful careers, and contribute their talents to strengthen our region. This milestone is a celebration of our graduates and a reminder that talent is everywhere, but access to opportunity is not. Training Futures helps bridge that gap.”
