Laurel Ridge Workforce Solutions student Zachary Caudle was presented with the 2025 Chancellor’s Award for Workforce Development in the category of Outstanding Student Success Story at the Virginia Community College System’s Hire Ed Conference on November 14th.
Caudle was recognized for embodying the transformative power of education and demonstrating personal and professional growth through the achievement of a credential.
Caudle bounced around warehouse jobs and trucking before applying to change his career with Laurel Ridge Work Force Solutions.
He has since earned numerous certificates and began working as a systems administrator for VDOT’s operation technology while pursuing his bachelor’s degree.
The Sherando High School Grad and current Elkton resident said, “ It’s crazy to see if you just put your head down and really want something, how quickly you can attain your goals at Laurel Ridge. It wouldn’t have been possible without this place.”
Thanks to the FastForward career training programs and G3 tuition assistance, all of Caudle’s tuition costs were covered.
Once earning his bachelors degree, Caudle will pursue a career as a cloud solutions architect.
To view the full announcement, click here.
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