TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – The CareerSource Florida Board of Directors unanimously approved the first statewide Apprenticeship Policy for Florida’s workforce system. Through this policy, the CareerSource Florida board, which oversees workforce development policy and investment for the state, supports and encourages the continued expansion of apprenticeship opportunities in Florida.
“I am committed to ensuring Floridians have diverse career opportunities and that Florida’s businesses have the skilled workforce they need to compete and grow,” said Gov. Ron DeSantis. “My Bold Vision for a Brighter Future Budget includes $10 million to support the expansion of apprenticeships and other industry-specific learning opportunities, and CareerSource Florida’s policy ensures our workforce system is aligned with these future-focused priorities.”
The new Apprenticeship Policy defines CareerSource Florida’s vision for apprenticeship, noting that expansion of apprenticeship programs presents opportunities for innovation of this time-tested and trusted method of skills development for Florida’s industries. The board vote follows Gov. DeSantis’ issuance last month of an Executive Order to begin the process of making Florida the No. 1 state in the nation for workforce education as well as ensuring that Florida students are prepared to fill high-demand, high-wage jobs.
“The CareerSource Florida board applauds Gov. DeSantis for prioritizing workforce education and inspiring us to continue to work collaboratively to ensure our current and future workforce is prepared to fill high-demand, high-wage jobs,” said CareerSource Florida Board Chairman Kevin Doyle. “CareerSource Florida’s statewide Apprenticeship Policy empowers the CareerSource Florida network of 24 local workforce development boards to identify and implement opportunities for new or expanded apprenticeships in industry sectors important to our state’s economy.”
In June 2018, CareerSource Florida and the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity and Department of Education hosted the first statewide Apprenticeship FLA Summit, bringing together hundreds of stakeholders to advance recommendations. This new policy, approved at the Feb. 13 board meeting, represents the collaborative work of the three partners and the next step in Florida’s apprenticeship expansion efforts.
“Workforce quality continues to be a top concern for business leaders in Florida and across the nation, and our board’s action sets the vision for our workforce system’s role in apprenticeship expansion as a solution for both businesses and job seekers,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard. “We are grateful to Gov. DeSantis for his leadership on this national issue.”
Florida Education Commissioner Richard Corcoran, a member of the CareerSource Florida board, said, “Governor DeSantis has once again proven his commitment to making Florida No. 1 in every aspect. Apprenticeships have provided countless students with the invaluable opportunity to earn a living while mastering skills that will help them grow their income and contribute to high-demand career fields. I commend Governor DeSantis for continuing to push bold policies that put Floridians first.”
“Governor DeSantis’ vision for a robust and highly-skilled workforce is vital to strengthening Florida’s economy and ensuring its sustainable growth,” said DEO Executive Director Ken Lawson, also a member of the CareerSource Florida board. “We are eager to work with our partners to expand apprenticeship opportunities throughout the state.”
Industry sectors of focus for apprenticeship expansion in Florida include Healthcare, Information Technology, Advanced Manufacturing, Leisure and Hospitality, and Construction.
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About CareerSource Florida
CareerSource Florida provides oversight and policy direction for talent development programs administered by the Department of Economic Opportunity, Florida’s 24 local workforce development boards and their 100 career centers. Together, the CareerSource Florida network connects employers with qualified, skilled talent and Floridians with employment and career development opportunities to achieve economic prosperity. Learn more at careersourceflorida.com.
About the Department of Education
The mission of Florida’s K-20 education system is to increase the proficiency of all students within one seamless efficient system, by allowing them the opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills through learning opportunities and research valued by students, parents and communities, and to maintain an accountability system that measures student progress toward the following goals: highest student achievement, seamless articulation and maximum access, skilled workforce and economic development, and quality efficient services.
About the Department of Economic Opportunity
The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity combines the state’s economic, workforce and community development efforts. This new approach helps expedite economic development projects to fuel job creation in competitive communities. For more information, including valuable resources for employers and job seekers, please visit www.floridajobs.org.