Governor Ron DeSantis today addressed parents, students and faculty at the Miami-Dade County Public Schools Pre-Apprenticeship Program 2019 Graduates Recognition Ceremony. Earlier in the day, the Governor signed CS/HB 7071: Workforce Education at the Space Florida offices in Merritt Island. The bill promotes career readiness and workforce opportunities for students and working adults, ensuring alignment between Florida’s education and workforce needs. The Governor was joined by Michelle Dennard, CEO of CareerSource Florida in Miami to highlight the accomplishments of students in the program.
The Miami-Dade Youth Pre-Apprenticeship Career and Technical Training Program is a 23-month program that targets income-eligible 11th and 12th-grade students. Participating students complete 300 hours in one of 12 Pre-Apprenticeship programs in skilled trades. Students participating in the program will be provided with a network of resources that provide a unique pathway into employment. Today, the first class of 81 graduating students will receive their certification in one of the 12 trades, including Heating and Air Conditioning Installer Servicer, Drywall Finisher/Painter, Electrician, Elevator Constructor, Insulation Worker, Operating Engineer, Pipefitter (Construction), Plumber, and Sheet Metal Worker.
“I’m proud to be here to celebrate with the first graduating class of the United Joint Apprenticeship Committee of South Florida,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “Expanding career opportunities for students like you and increasing Florida’s investment in programs just like these is paramount to our success of our state. Each and every one of you should be proud of what you’ve accomplished here today and be confident in your potential to succeed. We stand behind you. We are invested in you. And we are counting on you. Because you are our future.”
“CareerSource Florida applauds Governor Ron DeSantis for the strong emphasis he has placed on the expansion of apprenticeships, which provide vast opportunities for Florida’s future workforce,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard. “Governor DeSantis, the Florida Department of Education, Miami-Dade County Public Schools and CareerSource South Florida are leading the way through this innovative program that leverages the critical intersection between education and workforce development to ensure students have rewarding careers in growing industries.”
