What Is It Known For?
ForgeNow is recognized for its transformative vocational training programs that focus on launching fulfilling and sustainable careers in skilled trades. Originally established in 2018 as TRACOM (TRACOM Training Command Career Academy), the institution adopted the name ForgeNow in September 2020.
This rebranding reflected its leadership’s vision for a forward-thinking, innovative program that equips students with the skills to secure immediate job opportunities upon graduation. Each year, ForgeNow trains a significant number of students, though exact enrollment figures are not publicly disclosed.
Degrees & Certifications
ForgeNow offers a variety of certificate programs designed to equip students with practical skills for high-demand trades. Programs typically last around seven weeks, providing an efficient and focused path to workforce readiness.
Available programs include:
- HVAC Maintenance Technician
- Plumbing
- Electrical Wiring Training
- Facilities Maintenance
- Class Schedules
Classes at ForgeNow are immersive, combining classroom instruction with extensive lab-based training. Programs are full-time and typically last seven weeks. The school also offers externship and practical lab components to ensure students gain job-specific experience.
While courses are primarily in-person, ForgeNow prioritizes hands-on training for effective skill-building. For those needing additional support, tutoring is available upon request or as recommended by an instructor, ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed.
Is It Legit?
ForgeNow is approved and regulated by the Texas Workforce Commission, Career Schools, and Colleges in Austin, Texas. Additionally, the institution is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education & Training (ACCET). These credentials ensure that ForgeNow meets rigorous standards for quality education and professional training, providing students with confidence in the legitimacy of its programs.
Acceptance Rate
While specific acceptance rate data isn’t published, the school is focused on providing opportunities for individuals motivated to enter skilled trades. Contact ForgeNow for details on admission requirements.
How Much Does Tuition Cost?
Tuition for each program, including HVAC, Electrical Wiring, Plumbing, and Facilities Maintenance, is approximately $12,000. This cost covers lab materials, books, a uniform, work boots, and over $1,000 in tools. ForgeNow provides financing options, veterans’ benefits, and WIOA training grants to help make education accessible.
For detailed information about ForgeNow’s tuition and available financial assistance, please visit their official tuition page.
Programs & Courses
Skilled Trades
- Electrical Wiring
- Facilities Maintenance
- HVAC Maintenance Technician
Campus Locations
Dallas 8900 John W. Carpenter Fwy Dallas, TX 75247
Reviews
Based on local Google reviews, ForgeNow has a very high overall rating, with many students praising the effectiveness of its fast-paced, 7-week training and the quality of its instructors. However, recent and highly critical reviews, particularly from veterans, point to significant issues with high costs, administrative transparency, and a perception that the school is a “scam.”
Overall Score: 4.5/5 Stars
Common Praises
Knowledgeable Instructors: The instructors are consistently lauded as being “very knowledgeable,” “seriously great,” and “extremely knowledgeable.” Students feel they learned a lot from them in a short time.
Fast-Paced, Effective Training: Many students appreciate the accelerated, “boot-camp” style of the 7-week programs, finding that it provided the necessary skills to secure employment quickly.
Good Job Placement: Several reviewers mention that they found a job or were well-prepared for their new career with the help of the school’s job placement team.
Valuable Hands-On Experience: Students value the practical, hands-on portions of the training, which they say helped them gain knowledge and stand out to employers.
Common Criticisms
High Cost and “Scam” Claims: Several recent reviewers, including a veteran, describe the school as a “scam” for its high tuition costs, particularly when using the GI Bill. A former student expressed regret about paying thousands of dollars for minimal hands-on time in the first week.
Lack of Transparency: Reviewers complain about a lack of clarity on what is provided in the program, and some accuse a staff member of being unprofessional regarding graduation attendance requirements.
Insufficient Resources: Some students note that there were not enough materials for labs, forcing them to “scrap things” together.
Variable Program Quality: One reviewer would not recommend the facilities maintenance program, stating it was too expensive and focused on less important topics.
Momentum
The reviews show a sharp and recent divergence in sentiment. While many older reviews are overwhelmingly positive, the most recent ones are highly negative, with a focus on financial and administrative grievances rather than the quality of instruction. The school’s public responses to these criticisms are detailed and attempt to clarify its policies, but the negative feedback from veterans and others who feel they were overcharged or misled is a significant and growing point of concern.