By 2030, Florida is expected to gain 2.5 million new residents and need 1.3 million new jobs. This economic explosion brings with it rapid technological advancement across all industries. Employers must innovate to prepare today’s workforce for tomorrow’s needs.
Registered apprenticeship programs are a dynamic training model more employers are adopting. Last year, Florida had nearly 20,000 apprentices and preapprentices — a 14% increase over the previous year — and saw a 21% increase in apprenticeable occupations, including in-demand industries such as advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and aviation and aerospace.
A CREATIVE WAY TO CULTIVATE TALENT
Consider the learn-and-earn program offered by Warren Henry Auto Group in partnership with Miami-Dade County Public Schools. The South-Florida based company’s automotive service technician apprenticeship blends classroom instruction with paid on-the-job training across three locations in Miami-Dade and Broward counties. Apprentices learn in-demand skills and gain experience working on high-end, luxury vehicles.
Erik Day, Chief Financial Officer, said the program is an essential investment in building the company’s talent pipeline.
“We have a significant number of people working in the automotive technician field who are retiring. Our apprenticeship program allows us to bring fresh talent into the industry and creatively grow our workforce,” said Erik Day, Chief Financial Officer at Warren Henry Auto Group. “If I look at the amount of money we invest in the program and the yield from each apprentice, it’s a significant return on investment.”
PROVEN ROI FOR BUSINESSES
“As technology advances, more businesses need employees with industry- and companyspecific skills best learned in the workplace,” said Kevin O’Farrell, Chancellor of the Florida Department of Education’s Division of Career and Adult Education. “By building an apprenticeship unique to your business, you give employees the knowledge, experience and expertise necessary to excel in their roles, advance their careers and drive success for your company.”
The return on investment is compelling: For every dollar employers invest in registered apprenticeship programs, they see an average return of $1.50, and 97% of participating employers recommend the registered apprenticeship model.
SUPPORT EVERY STEP OF THE WAY
Apprenticeship navigators and apprenticeship training representatives located in nearly every Florida county help businesses of all sizes start their registered apprenticeship programs, often with the support of grant funding.
“These programs reduce turnover rates, increase productivity, lower the cost of recruitment and increase safety,” said Adrienne Johnston, President and CEO of CareerSource Florida. “Apprenticeships allow employers to mold talent from the ground up. By providing hands-on training and mentorship, businesses can ensure apprentices develop the precise skills necessary to excel."
Visit ApprenticeFlorida.com to learn more.