FloridaMakes announced on March 26 that it has been awarded a $600,000 Pathways Grant to expand apprenticeship opportunities for manufacturers across the state.
The grant aims to help address workforce needs in Florida’s manufacturing sector by supporting both new hires and existing employees through structured training programs. This initiative is expected to help manufacturers build stronger talent pipelines and prepare for future growth.
Marcelo DosSantos, Director of Workforce Development at FloridaMakes, said, “This investment strengthens our ability to meet manufacturers where their workforce needs are today and position them for future growth.” DosSantos also said, “Our apprenticeship programs give Florida manufacturers a no-cost, turnkey solution to upskill both new hires and existing employees.”
The apprenticeship model combines on-the-job training with technical instruction recognized by the industry. According to FloridaMakes, this approach helps elevate frontline workers into higher-skill roles while reducing turnover rates and building a more resilient workforce.
To support recruitment efforts and job placement, FloridaMakes will collaborate with community partners such as Samaritan Center and Elevance Health. These partnerships are intended to connect manufacturers with job-ready candidates who can fill open positions while complementing the organization’s employer-driven approach focused on skills development and workforce stability.
