Registered Behavior Technician Training Program opens doors for workforce development
Belmont University’s Fast Forward program and The Store recently celebrated the first graduating class of a new workforce initiative.
The cohort’s five adult learners completed an intensive eight-week Registered Behavior Technician (RBT) course designed to prepare them for employment in behavior support roles, particularly in autism therapy settings.
The RBT course reflects a collaborative approach to workforce development, mobilizing the efforts of a range of community partners, including The Store, Belmont Family Wellbeing Program, the Tennessee College of Applied Technology - Nashville, the Tennessee College Access & Success Network, Scarlett Family Foundation and Lighthouse Kids Centers.
“All five women in this pilot program have demonstrated incredible commitment while balancing jobs, family responsibilities and coursework,” said Bridget Williams Golden, director of Belmont Fast Forward. “Their success shows what’s possible when we remove barriers and invest in learners holistically.”
Participants were referred through The Store and Lighthouse Kids Centers provided the curriculum and instruction. Students also helped shape the training content. Those interested were surveyed to determine which type of certification they wanted to pursue, landing on the RBT course.
Along with credentialed training, students received critical wraparound support such as stipends, gas cards, tutoring and childcare accommodations — all essential to adult learner success.
“From the very beginning, the participants showed such passion for learning,” said Kris Dilliard, logistics manager at Lighthouse Kids Centers. “Watching them grow, especially as they transitioned their knowledge into hands-on work, was incredibly rewarding. This collaboration allowed us to individualize support, and the encouragement from Belmont’s team created a warm, empowering environment that helped them thrive.”
This initiative supports families experiencing food insecurity and partners with Belmont to offer educational and career advancement opportunities. Due to their determination and the wide range of resources available through the program, participants were able to complete the course despite many dealing with significant life challenges.
They celebrated their achievement alongside family members and community partners during a graduation ceremony held in Belmont's Jack C. Massey Center. The graduates will soon take the national RBT certification exam and, upon passing, they will be connected with local job opportunities in behavior support and autism services.
Their success shows what’s possible when we remove barriers and invest in learners holistically.”
Get involved with Fast Forward today.