Florida offers a wide range of career training and services to help individuals acquire the skills and resources they need to succeed in the job market. These programs and services aim to enhance employability, provide vocational training, support career development, and connect job seekers with employment opportunities.
CareerSource Florida is a statewide network of career development centers that provide comprehensive employment services. These centers offer job search assistance, resume writing and interview preparation workshops, skills assessment, career counseling, and access to job listings and job fairs. They also administer various training programs and partner with local employers to connect job seekers with employment opportunities.
The Florida Division of Vocational Rehabilitation assists individuals with disabilities in achieving employment and independence. VR services include vocational assessments, counseling, skills training, assistive technology, job placement assistance, and support for self-employment. VR works closely with individuals, employers, and community partners to promote inclusive employment opportunities.
The Florida Ready to Work program is a statewide initiative that assesses and certifies individuals in essential workplace skills. It offers three levels of certification—Bronze, Silver, and Gold—in Applied Mathematics, Reading for Information, and Locating Information. These certifications enhance employability and serve as a credential to demonstrate proficiency to potential employers.
Apprenticeship programs and Internships in Florida provide individuals with on-the-job training and classroom instruction, allowing them to acquire specialized skills in various industries. The Florida Department of Education, in collaboration with employers, industry associations, and educational institutions, develops and supports apprenticeship programs across the state. These programs often lead to industry-recognized credentials and higher-wage employment.
The state of Florida also offers grants and incentives to support workforce training and development initiatives. The Incumbent Worker Training Program (IWT) provides funding to businesses to upgrade the skills of their current employees, enhancing their productivity and competitiveness. The Quick Response Training (QRT) program assists new or expanding businesses in training newly hired employees.
Florida operates Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) funded programs that provide comprehensive employment and training services to eligible individuals. These programs assist job seekers in accessing training, education, and support services to secure employment. WIOA programs also connect employers with qualified candidates and offer specialized services for specific populations, such as veterans and youth.
Florida is home to a large number of educational institutions, including universities, community colleges, and career colleges, that offer a wide array of academic and vocational programs. These schools provide training in fields such as healthcare, information technology, skilled trades, business, and hospitality. Many educational institutions collaborate with local employers to align their programs with industry needs and facilitate internships or job placement opportunities.