Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA) is stepping up to support recently unemployed federal workers and contractors with its new scholarship initiative, NOVAnext. In response to job losses caused by cuts from the Department of Government Efficiency, the program will provide $1 million in scholarship aid to help up to 1,000 displaced workers transition into new careers.
Qualified applicants can enroll in one of 14 free courses leading to industry-recognized certifications in fields such as AI, IT, project management, and human resources. NOVAnext also offers entrepreneurial boot camps and online workshops focused on resume building, interview skills, and job searching.
NOVA President Anne Kress emphasized the importance of helping workers market their existing skills. “They have incredible expertise, but they may not know how to frame it in a way that today’s employers are looking for,” she said.
To qualify, applicants must have been laid off on or after Feb. 1, 2025, and reside in Northern Virginia for at least a year. The program covers residents in Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties, as well as Alexandria, Falls Church, and Manassas.
Interested individuals can fill out an online interest form to receive updates on the application process. NOVAnext aims to provide vital support for those navigating career transitions in an evolving job market.
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