CareerEdge, the workforce development program of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is now accepting applications for two upcoming Fast-Track Training programs – an automotive collision Tech program through Manatee Technical College, and a Marine Service program for high school seniors through Suncoast Technical College. Both programs are entirely tuition free, thanks to the generosity of CareerEdge’s funders.

Listening and responding to local business demands is a staple of the CareerEdge model.  In its sustained effort to innovate solutions for the skills gap and grow the local workforce, CareerEdge is launching two “transportation-inspired” fast-track programs in March 2023.

Auto Collision Technician Fast Track Program
When: March 20 – May 25, 2023, Monday and Thursday 5:30 – 7:30pm
Where: Manatee Technical College, 6305 State Road 70 E, Bradenton
Apply today: https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

Starting with the Automotive Collision fast-track, it is a never-before offered opportunity. Employer partners, Sunset Automotive Group and Morgan Automotive Group, believe in investing in their personnel. Candidates hired by or currently working for these regional automotive groups will attend this program at Manatee Technical College. CareerEdge brought the employers and college together to determine the industry’s workforce needs, identify the specific curriculum components, and provide this chance for free education.

The tuition-free classes will begin March 20, 2023 and run through May 1, 2023 in the evenings on Monday and Thursday from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm at Manatee Technical College, 6305 State Road 70 E, Bradenton. No technical experience is required, and all interested applicants will need to apply for and be screened by the employer and college before acceptance is confirmed. Participants must be Sarasota or Manatee County residents and apply by Monday, February 27th.  Graduates of the program will earn entry level certifications.

Marine Service Training (for High School Seniors)
When: March 7 – May 18, 2023, Tuesday-Thursday 5:30 – 9pm
Where: Suncoast Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
Apply today: https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

In addition to the automotive fast-track, CareerEdge is partnering with Local boat manufacturer, Chris-Craft, and Suncoast Technical College (STC) to offer a free Marine Service Technologies training program.  Chris-Craft is looking for ways to recruit and rapidly train people for a very specific skill set and then continue to develop their talent through internships and apprenticeship programs.

Unlike previous Bridges to Careers fast-track programs, the target audience of this partnership is Sarasota County high school seniors.  The tuition-free classes will take place in the evening Tuesday-Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at STC’s main campus 4748 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL 34233 and are scheduled to begin March 7, 2023, and run through May.  Chris-Craft will host a Mandatory Info session to interview participants on Wednesday, February 8^th and to plan to visit the class to enhance the real-world nature of the program. Graduates of this program may be hired by Chris-Craft (contingent upon availability). No technical experience is required. All interested applicants will need to apply and be screened by the employer and college. High school seniors interested in this opportunity must apply by Monday, February 6^th, those selected will be notified after the mandatory info session and interviews.

Eligibility for both programs includes having a clean background, agreeing to a background and drug test prior to starting the training, a valid driver’s license, ability to lift 75 lbs., reliable transportation, and enjoyment of hands-on work.  Each program also includes CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers soft skills and employability training. Funding for both programs is made possible by the gracious donors to the CareerEdge Funders Collaboration. The online applications can be found at:  https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

About CareerEdge Funders Collaborative

CareerEdge Funder’s Collaborative is an innovative partnership of business, government, and philanthropic organizations that leverages public and private dollars to provide opportunities for better jobs and wages in Manatee and Sarasota counties.  CareerEdge is the workforce development initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. For more information about CareerEdge and its partners, please visit www.careeredgefunders.org or call 941.556.4029.

About the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that works to cultivate Sarasota’s prosperity and quality of life through our member businesses, for more information please call (941) 955-8187 or visit us at www.sarasotachamber.com.