$30 Million Awarded for Florida Space Coast Workforce Development: Aerospace, Cybersecurity, Defense, Manufacturing
DAYTONA BEACH (FLV) – Gov. Ron DeSantis announced his administration is awarding around $30 million to bolster workforce development on Florida’s Space Coast.
“I set a goal to make Florida the best state in the nation for workforce education by 2030 — and we are doing that by making investments that expand opportunity and meet industry needs,” said DeSantis. “Currently there are over 91,000 manufacturing and aerospace technology-related jobs on the space coast and this $30 million investment will build more opportunities for Floridians.”
Highlights of the investment:
– $11.5 million to expand machining, welding, manufacturing and avionics training programs at Eastern Florida State College, Daytona State College, and Indian River State College;
– $9 million to create the Florida Atlantic Workforce Alliance, “a collaborative effort between workforce boards, educational institutions and school systems and aerospace, aviation, cybersecurity and manufacturing employers from Flagler to Martin”;
– $6.4 million to develop and expand machining and welding, aerospace, cybersecurity, and electrical apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs at schools and universities in the area; and
– $3 million to develop, expand, and support cybersecurity programs at colleges in the area,
“Governor DeSantis continues to build on our success to develop a robust space economy across Florida,” said Lt. Gov. Jeanette Nuñez. “Today’s announcement regarding our innovative funding partnership with our state colleges and workforce boards will position Florida as a leader in the aerospace industry. As Chair of Space Florida’s Board of Directors, I look forward to meeting the needs of future growth of space exploration and aviation technology in Florida.”
“In 2019, Governor DeSantis challenged our state to become first in workforce education by 2030. Through his decisive leadership and strategic investments like today’s awards, the Governor has become a true champion for Florida’s workforce education efforts,” said Florida Department of Economic Opportunity (DEO) Secretary Dane Eagle. “As Florida’s workforce continues to thrive, DEO is proud to work closely with our state agencies and its partners to bring the Governor’s vision to life. I look forward to the rewarding opportunities and continued growth this initiative will bring to Space Coast residents.”
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