FloridaCommerce has introduced a new initiative aimed at building a workforce to enhance Florida’s communications networks. The program, in collaboration with CareerSource Florida, the REACH Office, the Florida Department of Education, state and technical colleges, and other public and private sector partners, seeks to attract and train individuals to bring broadband internet to the state.
Recently, the Florida Department of Education approved a new curriculum for a Telecommunications and Fiber Optics Technician program at Miami Dade College to prepare students for careers in the broadband sector. The program is designed to equip them with skills for high-wage jobs.
“In partnering with Florida’s state and technical colleges—including Miami Dade College, the Florida Department of Education, CareerSource Florida, Local Workforce Development Boards, the REACH Office, and other public and private sector stakeholders, we are building the workforce needed to support Florida’s broadband industry,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly. Kelly emphasized the financial commitment made by Governor DeSantis toward workforce education.
“Florida is leading the nation in talent development because our colleges continue to adapt their programs to meet workforce needs,” stated Commissioner of Education Manny Diaz, Jr. The aim is to provide students access to jobs in the growing broadband field.
“There are so many career opportunities for individuals who are not pursuing traditional four-year degrees,” explained Madeline Pumariega, President of Miami Dade College. She highlighted the crucial role of educational institutions in readying the workforce for the state’s digital infrastructure.
Leo Garcia, Director of the FloridaCommerce Office of Broadband, underscored the need for workforce skills for communications network deployment, mentioning the Broadband Nation initiative aimed at boosting awareness and recruitment for broadband jobs.
The initiative includes a partnership between the FloridaCommerce Office of Broadband and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) to promote jobs related to broadband infrastructure deployment. By 2030, about 130,000 locations in Florida are expected to connect to broadband, necessitating more than 20,000 workers for related jobs.
The effort is part of a larger plan, supported by $1.16 billion in BEAD funds, to improve broadband access across Florida in underserved areas, in coordination with the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA).
Floridians seeking training and employment opportunities in the broadband industry can reach the FloridaCommerce Office of Broadband via email at Broadband@Commerce.fl.gov or visit BroadbandNation.org/Florida.
