Announcing Virginia Forward: Federal Workforce Resources

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Home Announcing Virginia Forward: Federal Workforce Resources

If you are a former Federal employee looking to transition to the private sector, you may want to consider updating your resume to translate your detailed government job duties and accomplishments into industry terminology, avoiding overly technical jargon or acronyms. Action-oriented statements that highlight relevant skills and achievements, using common industry terminology, and generally shortening the length to fit a standard 1-2 page resume format while still emphasizing key qualifications for the desired civilian role.

Click here to view a sample resume.

Key points to consider when revising your resume from Federal employment:

  • Simplify Language: Replace government-specific terms with their private sector equivalents. For example, “program manager” instead of “project officer,” “stakeholder engagement” instead of “interagency coordination.” Remove federal job series, grades (e.g., GS-13), and excessive detail about every duty. Avoid excessive acronyms (or spell them out and explain briefly).
  • Focus on Results: Quantify your achievements with numbers and percentages to demonstrate the impact of your work. Focus on achievements and impact rather than task descriptions. Use quantifiable metrics where possible: Instead of “Reviewed policy documents,” say “Streamlined policy review process, reducing approval time by 30%.” Use action verbs like “optimized,” “implemented,” “increased,” “developed,” “led,” etc.
  • Streamline the Format: Federal resumes are often lengthy (4–6 pages). Aim for 1–2 pages for the private sector. Use a clean, modern layout with bullet points for readability. Ensure your resume is free from errors and presents a professional image. You can select a standard resume format that’s either a chronological or functional format depending on your career goals.
  • Tailor to Each Job: Start by analyzing each job posting to identify the key skills and qualifications they are seeking. Customize your resume for each position by highlighting the most relevant skills and experiences listed in the job description. Highlight experience in improving processes, cost savings, increasing efficiency, or driving innovation.
  • Adjust the Summary/Profile Section: Government resumes often start with a long “Professional Summary” or “Objective.” Condense it into a 3–5 sentence professional summary highlighting your most relevant skills and industry experience.
  • Condense Details: While federal resumes often require extensive detail, private sector resumes can be more concise, focusing on key accomplishments and responsibilities.
  • Remove Unnecessary Information: Eliminate details like agency-specific acronyms, occupational series numbers, and overly technical jargon that may not be familiar to private sector hiring managers.

Example of translating federal government experience to non-government terms:

  • Federal Role: “Managed a team of analysts responsible for developing and implementing budget proposals for a large federal agency.”
    • The “Transferrable Skill”: “Led a team of financial analysts in crafting and executing strategic budget plans, resulting in $X million in cost savings.”
  • Federal Role: “Managed interagency coordination for compliance with federal mandates.”
    • The “Transferrable Skill”: “Led cross-functional teams to ensure regulatory compliance.”

Use keywords from the job posting to ensure your resume gets past automated screening systems, optimizing for industry terms. In general, highlighting the following areas is key for resumes in the private sector or non-government employment:

  • Technical Skills: Specific software proficiency, data analysis skills, project management tools.
  • Leadership Experience: Managing teams, supervising staff, delegating tasks.
  • Problem-Solving Abilities: Identifying issues, developing solutions, implementing improvements.
  • Communication Skills: Effective written and verbal communication, stakeholder engagement.

Richmond, VA – Virginia Secretary of Labor, Jessica Looman, along with Virginia Works today announced $157,500 in additional funding through the HIRED (Highlight, Include, Recruit, Engage, Deliver) Apprenticeship Fund’s next round of funding. These grant funds are available to employers across the Commonwealth who create new Registered Apprenticeship programs or scale already established programs in high demand industries.

Employers headquartered and operating in the Commonwealth of Virginia are encouraged to apply for up to $7,000 in reimbursement ($3,500 per apprentice) for essential training and supportive services as sponsors of established or new Registered Apprenticeship programs.

“Registered Apprenticeships are one of our most effective strategies for building a strong workforce and a resilient economy,” said Virginia Secretary of Labor Jessica Looman. “This investment reflects our commitment to creating pathways to good jobs while helping employers meet essential workforce needs in high-demand industries. By investing in quality Registered Apprenticeship programs, we are not only supporting businesses but also empowering workers, especially those in rural and underserved communities, to gain the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.”

The HIRED Apprenticeship Fund is part of Virginia’s effort to strengthen workforce development through Registered Apprenticeship. This round of funding is 100% funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration under the National Apprenticeship Act.

Targeted industries include, but are not limited to:

  • Education
  • Information Technology
  • Care Economy
  • Service Trades
  • Manufacturing
  • Maintenance and Repair

Employers are strongly encouraged to recruit apprentices from underserved populations, including women, veterans, dislocated workers, youth (ages 18–24), and individuals with disabilities. Employers located in rural areas will receive priority consideration during the application review process.

“We know that Registered Apprenticeship works – it’s the gold standard of work-based learning in the Commonwealth and nationwide and produces proven outcomes for both the individual and the employer in terms of wage growth for apprentices, retention for employers, and more,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “The HIRED Fund continues to offer opportunities to grow Registered Apprenticeship programs across the Commonwealth – opportunities that we highly encourage employers to take part in.”

Applications will be accepted beginning February 18, 2026, and must be submitted by March 18, 2026, at 5:00 PM ET. For more information or to apply, please visit https://virginiaworks.gov/hired-apprenticeship-fund. Award announcements will be made on or before April 8, 2026.

HIRED funds are provided through the State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF) Grant through the United States Department of Labor.

For more information about Registered Apprenticeship, a proven “earn while you learn” model and Virginia’s oldest work-based learning approach to workforce development, as well as the full range of workforce services offered by Virginia Works, please visit www.virginiaworks.gov.

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Virginia Works, the Commonwealth’s Department of Workforce Development and Advancement, is dedicated to serving both job seekers and employers with a wide range of workforce services and talent strategies. Virginia Works is an equal opportunity employer. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. VRC/TDD VA Relay 711.

Virginia Works is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) Employment and Training Administration (ETA) through the use of a State Apprenticeship Expansion Formula (SAEF) grant award, Apprenticeship USA Grants Award FAIN #25A60AP000164, totaling $1,129,005.00. The dollar amount of Federal funds for this project equals $157,500 which constitutes 100 percent of the project cost.

RICHMOND — On Friday, Virginia Works – the Commonwealth’s Department of Workforce Development and Advancement – announced the launch of the Maritime & Nuclear Workforce Accelerator, a new employer-driven upskilling initiative designed to support workforce growth and retention in maritime, nuclear energy, and aligned manufacturing occupations and sectors. This initiative is designed to eligible employers with performance-based reimbursement of up to 80 percent of approved training costs for a maximum reimbursement of $100,000 per employer to support targeted training.

Funded via the Governor’s set-aside Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act (WIOA) Title I funds and administered by Virginia Works, the Virginia Maritime & Nuclear Workforce Accelerator uses a phased approach and begins with a structured employer needs assessment. Employers will work with Virginia Works and strategic partners such as the Hampton Roads Workforce Council, the Central Virginia Workforce Development Board, the Virginia Manufacturers’ Association, the Virginia Department of Energy, and the Virginia Community College System to design and then implement training programs, such as short-term credential programs, customized or modular training, Registered Apprenticeships, and employer-led on-the-job training. Performance-based reimbursement will be tied to training completion and six-month job retention.

Employer engagement is currently underway, and employers are encouraged to submit an interest form via the website https://virginiaworks.gov/maritime-nuclear-accelerator/

“The Virginia Maritime & Nuclear Accelerator will allow us to engage employers in essential industries throughout the Commonwealth to truly understand and be responsive to their ongoing needs for upskilling,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “This program positions us to better serve Virginians – whether they are employers or employees – in strengthening opportunities for success.”

Virginia Works is the Commonwealth’s state workforce agency and leads statewide efforts to align workforce development with economic growth and employer demand. Through partnerships with workforce development boards, training providers, and industry stakeholders, Virginia Works supports employers and workers by expanding access to high-quality training and career pathways in priority industries across the Commonwealth.

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Virginia Works, the Commonwealth’s Department of Workforce Development and Advancement, is dedicated to serving both job seekers and employers with a wide range of workforce services and talent pipeline strategies. Virginia Works is an equal opportunity employer. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities. VRC/TDD VA Relay 711.

Virginia Works is funded by the U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) – Employment and Training Administration (ETA) through the use of Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) (Award FAIN #24A55AT000085, 24A55AW000090, 24A55AY000108, 25A55AW000121) totaling $49,692,478. The dollar amount of Federal funds for this project equal $2,000,000, which constitutes 100 percent of the project cost. Zero costs and zero percent of this project were financed by non-governmental source.

RICHMOND — Virginia Works, in partnership with multiple state agencies and workforce development organizations, announces the launch of Virginia’s Talent Solutions Guide, a comprehensive catalog of free programs and services designed to help employers across the Commonwealth plan, develop, hire, and retain skilled talent. 

Fully aligned with Virginia’s broader economic development and workforce strategies, the guide represents a collaborative effort across Virginia’s workforce ecosystem to provide businesses with access to the full spectrum of talent development resources available at no cost to support businesses at every stage of the talent lifecycle.

“Virginia’s 4.5 million-strong workforce is one of our most valuable assets. At a time when talent needs are evolving rapidly, Virginia Works is convening the Commonwealth’s workforce ecosystem and our broad range of employer services to help navigate the challenges of hiring, training, and retention with confidence,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “This guide is a practical resource designed to help businesses of all sizes tap into the power of Virginia’s workforce system. From emerging startups to established enterprises, every employer can access a wide range of support to build, strengthen, and sustain a skilled workforce.”

The Talent Solutions Guide organizes Virginia’s workforce offerings into three core categories: Plan, Develop, Hire, and Retain, and includes bonus tools to support data-informed decision-making. Whether a startup hiring its first employee or a large enterprise scaling operations, employers will find actionable strategies tailored to their goals.

Key features include:

  • A “no wrong door” approach to accessing services through local workforce centers, community colleges, and partner organizations
  • Guidance on combining programs to build integrated talent strategies
  • Tips for planning ahead and connecting with workforce professionals
  • Insights into Virginia’s diverse and highly skilled labor force

The guide also highlights the role of Virginia’s Local Workforce Development Boards and Business Services Teams, which align regional strategies with statewide goals and ensure that services reflect local economic realities.

Developed in collaboration with workforce development partners, economic development organizations, and business leaders across the Commonwealth, the guide reflects a shared commitment to making Virginia the Top State for Talent by equipping employers with the tools they need to succeed.

Key partners include the Virginia Economic Development Partnership, Virginia Community College System, Virginia Department of Education, Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation, Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services, Virginia Department of Veterans Services, and local workforce development boards.   

The Talent Solutions Guide is available at VirginiaWorks.gov. Employers can also contact their local Virginia Career Works center to connect with a Regional Business Services Representative who can provide personalized guidance on leveraging these programs. 

  

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Virginia Apprenticeship Council
Meeting Agenda
Thursday, December 4, 2025
10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

  1. Call to order – Chairman Dudley Harris 
  2. Council Introductions and Welcome 
  3. Public Comment Period 
  4. Approval of Minutes 
  5. Old Business  
    • Presented for Final Review: State Reciprocity Policy for Registered Apprenticeship Programs – Dr. Jameo Pollock
  6. New Business & Reports from Virginia Works
    Remarks from Nicole Overley, Commissioner and Council Secretary
    • Policy
      • Comprehensive Regulatory Review and Updates – Skip Maupai
    • Program Operations
      • Modifications to Existing Programs – Registered Apprenticeship team
      • RA Sponsor Survey and Exit Survey – Faith Clayton, Registered Apprenticeship Regional Manager
      • RA Scorecard Review – Angela Kelly-Wiecek, Chief Deputy Commissioner, Virginia Works
    • Growth Strategy
      • Supporting Candidate Identification and Referrals from other Virginia Works programs – Kimion Walker, Chief Operating Officer, Virginia Works
      • Supporting Virginia state agencies with RA programs – Kara Joyce, Registered Apprenticeship Consultant in Greater Roanoke area
      • Update on intermediaries – Angela Kelly-Wiecek, Chief Deputy Commissioner, Virginia Works
  7. Partner Reports
    • Marjorie King, Board of Contractors, Department of Professional and Occupational Regulation (DPOR)
    • Dr. Jason Williams, Coordinator, Apprenticeships and Work Based Learning Programs, Virginia Community College System (VCCS)
    • Dr. Anthony Williams, Director of CTE, Department of Education (DOE)
    • Gary Pan, Commissioner, Department of Labor and Industry (DOLI)
  8. Announcements
    • 2026 meeting schedule, including joint or co-located meeting with Virginia Board of Workforce Development (March 2026)

RICHMOND, VA – Virginia Works today announced the launch of a new component of the Virginia Has Jobs skills hub during the Career Redesign Studio event in northern Virginia. The event, which drew over 200 registrants looking to explore their future career paths, featured two highly interactive sessions introducing participants to human-centered design concepts and how they apply to career navigation. Attendees also received access to additional tools for further exploration, including VirginiaHasJobs.com/careerskills – a resource designed to help Virginians develop essential human skills for today’s rapidly evolving job market.

“The future of work demands more than technical expertise – it requires adaptability, resilience, and strong interpersonal skills,” said Nicole Overley, Commissioner of Virginia Works. “We’re committed to developing accessible resources across our Skills Hub and helping Virginians develop the human skills employers consistently identify as critical for success.”

Introducing VirginiaHasJobs.com/careerskills
This newly launched component of the Virginia Has Jobs skills hub includes a curated collection of resources focused on three key areas:

  • Adaptability Skills – Building flexibility and resilience to navigate career transitions and workplace changes
  • Life Skills – Developing essential competencies for professional and personal success
  • Human Skills – Strengthening communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence

Through interactive sessions and thought-provoking discussions, the Career Redesign Studio centered on career evolution in an age of rapid technological and economic change. Attendees engaged in hands-on activities exploring personal strengths and transferable skills, while hearing from guest speakers including Secretary of Labor Bryan Slater and Director of the Department of Human Resource Management Janet Lawson. Multiple local and community organizations were on hand to share resources, and attendees were able to receive free professional headshots. Due to the overwhelming interest in this type of support, additional Career Redesign sessions are being planned.

Virginia Works connects people to careers and employers to skilled talent through integrated workforce development services. The agency provides comprehensive career resources, training connections, and employment services to help Virginians thrive in the modern economy. For more information about Virginia Works and our full range of workforce services, please visit www.virginiaworks.gov.

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