Florida education commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announces a landmark $40 million investment to expand workforce education programs across the state
Tallahassee, Florida – In a major move to strengthen Florida’s workforce and prepare students for careers in high-demand industries, Florida Department of Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas announced today the award of $40 million through the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program (Workforce CAP). The funding is aimed at expanding and enhancing workforce education programs across the state, supporting students in high school and postsecondary programs as they acquire skills needed to succeed in Florida’s rapidly evolving economy.
“Florida’s workforce is stronger than ever because we are investing directly in students and the programs that prepare them for success,” said Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas. “This $40 million investment expands opportunities across the state, giving students access to cutting-edge training and ensuring Florida remains the best place to build a career.”
The latest round of funding strengthens 49 workforce programs statewide, increasing workforce capacity by an impressive 59 percent. This brings the total investment in workforce initiatives under Workforce CAP to $240 million since its inception in 2023, highlighting Florida’s ongoing commitment to developing a highly skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of priority industries. Workforce CAP grants are designed to support programs in sectors with high employment demand, including engineering, cybersecurity, healthcare, aviation, artificial intelligence, robotics, advanced manufacturing, and construction.
Among the institutions benefiting from this funding, Santa Fe College received $1,568,972 to bolster programs in Engineering Technology, while Bay County School District secured $84,878 for programs in Engineering Pathways and Allied Health Assisting. Brevard County School District was awarded $1,448,987 to support programs in Applied Cybersecurity, Applied Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence Foundations, Aviation Assembly and Fabrication, and Cloud Computing & Virtualization, reflecting the growing importance of technology-driven fields.
In Broward County, the funding is substantial, totaling $4,278,285, and will support a wide range of programs including Allied Health Assisting, Applied Robotics, Artificial Intelligence Foundations, Electrocardiograph Technician, Nursing Assistant programs, HVAC/Refrigeration, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations. “These programs prepare students to enter the workforce with industry-recognized certifications, ready to contribute immediately to high-demand sectors,” said Kamoutsas.
Other school districts and colleges across Florida also received significant awards. Miami-Dade County School District received $5,830,190 to support Allied Health Assisting, Applied Engineering Technology, Aviation Mechanics, Biomedical Sciences, Engineering Pathways, and Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations. Orange County School District was granted $2,864,087 for programs in Artificial Intelligence Foundations, Telecommunications and Fiber Optics Technician, Biomedical Sciences, and Engineering Pathways, reflecting the state’s emphasis on technology, healthcare, and engineering careers.
Several smaller counties and colleges also benefited, including Franklin County School District, awarded $290,706 for Welding Technology Fundamentals, AI Foundations, and Aviation programs, and Chipola College, which received $310,000 to enhance Advanced Manufacturing and Production Technology programs. These allocations ensure that rural and underserved areas of Florida have access to workforce programs aligned with industry needs.
Funding also targets programs in emerging technologies. Hernando County School District will expand training in Applied Cybersecurity, Applied Information Technology, AI Foundations, Welding Technology, HVAC/Refrigeration, and Industrial Machinery Maintenance with an award of $1,896,260. Volusia County School District received $2,001,515 to support Allied Health Assisting, Building Trades, Applied Robotics, and Game/Simulation/Animation Programming, providing students opportunities to explore creative and technical career paths.
The Workforce CAP grants not only fund classroom and laboratory resources but also provide support for instructors, equipment, and curriculum development. Programs emphasize hands-on experience, industry-recognized certifications, and applied learning to ensure students graduate workforce-ready. “These funds ensure that students across Florida have access to the tools, resources, and training necessary to thrive in emerging industries and meet the demands of Florida’s growing economy,” Kamoutsas noted.
In addition to preparing students for immediate employment, Workforce CAP programs strengthen the state’s economic resilience by providing a steady pipeline of skilled workers for industries vital to Florida’s growth. Sectors such as healthcare, technology, advanced manufacturing, and aviation rely on a workforce trained in both technical and practical skills. These programs also help students build credentials recognized by employers, enhancing career mobility and long-term economic opportunity.
Schools and districts receiving Workforce CAP funding are encouraged to integrate modern equipment, cutting-edge software, and industry partnerships into their programs to maintain high-quality training standards. Programs also include opportunities for internships, apprenticeships, and co-ops to give students real-world experience and connections with potential employers. This approach ensures that the workforce is prepared for both immediate employment and long-term career advancement.
Commissioner Kamoutsas emphasized that Workforce CAP is central to Florida’s workforce development strategy, saying, “We are committed to giving students the education and skills they need to succeed, and these grants reflect a focused effort to align education with industry demands.” The program demonstrates a statewide commitment to bridging the gap between education and the evolving job market, ensuring that Florida remains competitive in attracting businesses and fostering economic growth.
Institutions interested in applying for future Workforce CAP grants can find more information and the application process on the CAP Grant page of the Florida Department of Education website. By continuing to invest in workforce education, Florida aims to equip students with the technical knowledge, problem-solving skills, and practical experience necessary to thrive in careers that are essential to the state’s economic future.
From high-tech cybersecurity labs to aviation maintenance hangars, healthcare training centers, and advanced manufacturing workshops, Workforce CAP grants are shaping the future of Florida’s workforce. This $40 million investment reflects a strategic vision to prepare students for jobs that are both in demand and well-compensated, ensuring that communities across Florida benefit from a robust and capable workforce.
As Florida continues to expand and diversify its economy, programs funded by Workforce CAP will play a crucial role in providing students with the education and skills required to meet industry needs, while supporting local businesses, healthcare providers, and technology firms that rely on a skilled and adaptable workforce. Commissioner Kamoutsas’ announcement underscores the state’s dedication to creating opportunities, supporting educational institutions, and investing in the next generation of professionals who will drive Florida’s economy forward.
