Florida’s Department of Education helps students fast-track their careers

For high school students who are preparing for future careers, workforce training programs deliver high-value skills at an accelerated pace. These programs are designed to meet the demands of today's job market, ensuring that students are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen fields.

That's the inspiration behind a new video from the Future of Work Florida Initiative, which presents Career and Technical Education as a fast, affordable way to prepare for a variety of fulfilling, stable careers with mid- to high-wage potential.

Powered by the Department of Education in partnership with the Florida Chamber of Commerce and CareerSource Florida, Future of Work Florida is raising the profile on CTE's ability to provide job seekers with the credentials, skills and experience they need to find fulfilling employment.

The new video features The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA), showcasing Florida's thriving automotive industry through the lens of CTE. The many careers available at IMSA — from automotive mechanic to computer system analyst — are a testament to CTE as a cornerstone of Florida's education system, making numerous career pathways in high-growth industries achievable for all Floridians.

"The doors CTE opens are beyond valuable. Floridians can quickly build a resume of real experience, skills and credentials in a high-demand industry and even earn a paycheck while doing it," said Manny Diaz Jr., commissioner of the Florida Department of Education. "By making these opportunities available, we are not only preparing students for success but also driving the economic growth of the state."

CTE offers a valuable alternative to a four-year postsecondary education. In CTE, students will find an affordable pathway to success in a career that matches their skills and interests — with hands-on learning and rapid credentialing with programs that can be completed in as little as a couple months.

"The International Motor Sports Association (IMSA) is by nature a fast-paced, challenging environment where CTE students can test their skills in the real world," said John Doonan, president of IMSA. "On the racetrack, IMSA is a laboratory where the latest and greatest technologies take off. But off the racetrack, things are just as thrilling. It's where people with a wide variety of passions, interests and skills can find their niche and thrive."

Florida is home to a growing labor force, low unemployment and incredible economic prosperity. As Florida's economy continues to grow, Florida is working to ensure that the talent pipeline can keep up with industry demand to fill high wage job openings.

The state has made an $8.5 billion investment in workforce education, apprenticeship expansions and the Get There initiative — leading to a remarkable 30% increase in postsecondary enrollments since Governor DeSantis took office. During the 2023-24 academic year alone, Florida experienced record-breaking CTE enrollments, including over 800,000 K-12 students and 480,000 postsecondary students taking CTE courses.

Are you ready to fast-track your future? Visit https://gettherefl.com/future-of-work/ to get connected with programs in your area today.