CareerEdge Receives $150,000 Grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation to Enhance Local Workforce Development Effort 

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CareerEdge Receives $150,000 Grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation to Enhance Local Workforce Development Effort 

Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida (July 8, 2025) – CareerEdge, the workforce development initiative led by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded a substantial $150,000 grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation (Gulf Coast). This generous grant, made possible through the Maria Haber Charitable Fund, further solidifies the longstanding partnership between CareerEdge and Gulf Coast. As one of CareerEdge’s founding funders, Gulf Coast has continuously played an active role in advancing their mission.  

The grant will support CareerEdge Funders Collaborative’s initiatives in providing an exceptional labor force to growing industries by leveraging community assets and forming high-performing workforce partnerships. CareerEdge will utilize the grant to implement demand-driven strategies, including Fast-Track training programs, on-the-job training, internship reimbursement programs, and employer funding to upskill employees.  

“CareerEdge is proud to continue its longstanding funding partnership with Gulf Coast Community Foundation,” said Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development. “This investment directly fuels high-impact workforce programs that address critical skills gaps for local employers, while empowering individuals to gain in-demand training, launch meaningful careers, and improve their long-term financial stability. The ripple effects of this support are felt across the region—in businesses, in households, and throughout our economy.” 

Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $18.5 million, providing training for 8,141 workers, resulting in 1,646 promotions, 5,210 raises, and $42.1 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings. In 2024 alone, CareerEdge and partners invested $1.3 million in workforce development, resulting in 486 workers trained, $2.1 million in added wages, created 117 new jobs, provided 213 new employment opportunities, and 594 new certifications were earned.   

 

 

About CareerEdge Funders Collaborative  

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is an innovative partnership of business, government, and philanthropic organizations, leveraging 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 941.556.4045.  

About the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce  

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that exists to maximize our members’ success, the community’s competitiveness, and the area’s economic strengths. For more information, call (941) 955-8187 or visit online at www.sarasotachamber.com  

About Gulf Coast Community Foundation 
Headquartered in Venice, Fla. and with a second office in downtown Sarasota, Fla., Gulf Coast Community Foundation was founded in 1995 to serve our community – forever. Together with our donors, Gulf Coast transforms the region through bold and proactive philanthropy. Serving the needs of the region as a partner in philanthropy and leader in community initiatives, Gulf Coast has surpassed granting over $605 million in the areas of: health and human services, civic and economic development, education, arts and culture, and the environment. Since 2006, the Foundation has earned accreditation with Community Foundations National Standards®, the nation’s highest standard for philanthropic excellence. Gulf Coast was named one of the “Best Nonprofits To Work For” nationally by The NonProfit Times in 2010, 2011, 2017, 2020, 2021, and 2023. To learn more, visit GulfCoastCF.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.     

CareerEdge, Opportunities For All Earn Big Investment to Further Strengthen Local Workforce Development

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CareerEdge, Opportunities For All Earn Big Investment to Further Strengthen Local Workforce Development

CareerEdge and Opportunities For All, the workforce and minority-owned business development initiatives led by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, have been awarded a significant grant from Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation. The funding will be used to assist unemployed and underemployed individuals who have been unable to earn livable wages in gaining the skills and credentials they need to launch their careers and support their families. 

The grant will be strategically channeled toward implementing demand-driven solutions that align with the evolving needs of the regional job market. CareerEdge plans to leverage these resources to enhance its Fast-Track training programs, on-the-job training initiatives, internship reimbursement programs, and employer-driven upskilling endeavors. The support will enhance CareerEdge’s ability to empower individuals with relevant skills and ensure they are well prepared to excel in their careers, ultimately fostering economic growth within the community. 

Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $17.1 million, providing trainings for 7,655 workers, resulting in 1,646 promotions, 4,951 raises, and $40 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings. In 2023 alone, CareerEdge invested $1.5 million in workforce development, $1.7 million in added wages, trained 461 workers, created 100 new jobs, provided 182 new employment opportunities, and helped workers earn 344 new certifications.  

Additionally, the grant will continue Baranick Foundation support for the two main components of Opportunities For All—a summer-internship program and business-assistance funds to help minority small-business owners and nonprofit organizations grow and thrive. Since 2021, Opportunities for All has supported 82 minority-owned small businesses through grant funding. Additionally, the program has placed 95 students with local employers in meaningful internship experiences, empowering these students by fostering relationships, mentorships, educational opportunities, and future employment. 

“The Chamber is proud to continue our longstanding partnership with Barancik Foundation to strengthen our region’s workforce,” said Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development. “This investment in our programs enables us to provide even greater support to our community’s workers and entrepreneurs. By expanding access to workforce and small business initiatives, we are helping to enhance financial stability and foster future career growth for all.” 

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About CareerEdge Funders Collaborative 

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is an innovative partnership of business, government, and philanthropic organizations, leveraging 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 941.556.4045. 

About Opportunities For All 

Opportunities For All is a program of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce dedicated to helping small, minority-owned businesses and individuals in our region. 

About the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that exists to maximize our members’ success, the community’s competitiveness, and the area’s economic strengths. For more information, call (941) 955-8187 or visit online at www.sarasotachamber.com 

CareerEdge and Dwyer Workforce Development fund hybrid learning CNA training in partnership with Meridian West Central College

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CareerEdge and Dwyer Workforce Development fund hybrid learning CNA training in partnership with Meridian West Central College

(July 16, 2024) – Sarasota, FL The workforce development initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, CareerEdge, continuously seeks innovative programs and techniques to support local businesses.  In this new pilot program, CareerEdge, with Dwyer Workforce Development, and Meridian West Central College offer a tuition free hybrid learning Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) class launching in August.

Dwyer Workforce Development (DWD) is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to providing healthcare training to communities and enhancing care for seniors.  DWD will offer free case management and need-based wraparound services, such as financial support for housing, childcare, transportation, scholarships, and more.

Meridian West Central College, a local private school licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, will provide the 120-hour program to prepare individuals for entry-level nursing work in hospitals, skilled nursing facilities and/or private duty settings.  The goal of the program is to address the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in our community and provide individuals from Sarasota and Manatee County with the opportunity to start a rewarding career in healthcare without the financial burden.

This program is taught in English, with a combination of lecture, discussion, hands-on practical lab exercises, and real-world clinical experience conducted off-campus at local nursing/rehab facilities. The tuition-free FastTrack begins August 12, 2024, and runs through October 18 with AM and PM classes available.  Morning classes are held Monday – Wednesday online, Thursday in person, from 9:00 am to 1:00 pm. In-person classes will take place at Meridian West Central College, 201 Montgomery Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34243.  Evening classes take place from 5:00 to 9:00pm with the same three days of online instruction and one day of in-person practice. The program will also include CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers soft skills training where participants learn additional aspects of professionalism, including interview and resume building skills.

Program Highlights:

  • Tuition-Free: The CNA training program is tuition-free for all eligible participants.
  • Comprehensive Curriculum: The program includes 9 weeks of remote learning instruction, with in person hands-on clinical training, and preparation for the state certification exam.
  • Job Placement Assistance: Graduates will receive support in finding employment opportunities upon completion of the program.
  • Flexible Schedules: Classes are available during the day 9am to 1pm or evenings 5pm to 9pm to accommodate different schedules.
  • Wraparound services: Financial support during training for housing, childcare, transportation, scholarships, and more.

To be eligible, applicants must have a GED or high school diploma, reside in Sarasota or Manatee County, submit their application by Monday, July 22nd, and pass a background check and drug test before beginning the training.

Participants are responsible for paying for their application fee, certification exam fee, fingerprint testing, drug screening and CPR certification. Participants must also complete a medical clearance, provide proof of certain immunizations, and are responsible for covering expenses associated with these steps.  No technical experience is required for this training.  Interested applicants need to apply and interview with CareerEdge staff.  Those selected will be notified. The program is limited to only 15 participants per cohort (AM and PM).  For more information go to https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/.

Funding for the program is made possible by CareerEdge Funders Collaborative and the generous support from its funders and with the support of the local health care business community.

 

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.

CareerEdge’s Funders Collaborative and Partners Invest $1.5 million in Local Workforce Development

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CareerEdge’s Funders Collaborative and partners invest $1.5 million in local workforce development

Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida (May 6, 2024) – CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, the workforce initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce its 2023 efforts resulted in an economic impact of $2.7 million for the local economy. Their funding opportunities, unique programs and strategic partnerships with employers, educators, government officials, and community stakeholders are significantly contributing to the development of the region’s workforce.  The collaborative approach to local solutions led to outstanding ratings in several critical areas of the yearly evaluation.

CareerEdge’s 2023 Annual Evaluation shows the substantial impact to the Sarasota-Bradenton economy, including more than $1.5 million invested in workforce development, almost $1.8 million in added wages, 461 workers trained, the creation of 100 new jobs, 182 new employment opportunities and 344 new certifications earned.  The highly informative and detailed report includes other valuable metrics including demographics by gender, ethnicity, certifications earned by industry, and increases in annual wages per program.

Notably, CareerEdge observed a significant shift in training priorities, spurred by the evolving needs of the community. In 2023, there was a pronounced focus on enhancing leadership skills across various sectors, underlining the crucial role of leadership in team effectiveness, goal achievement, and reducing turnover. Internally, CareerEdge’s Leadership Academy program, aimed at developing emerging leaders, expanded into the insurance industry and saw increased engagement in manufacturing and healthcare. The Upskilling Workers Grant program experienced a similar increase, with a majority of employer applications citing retention as a challenge. This surge in demand for leadership programs underscores the growing recognition of leadership’s impact on workplace effectiveness and employee satisfaction.

Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $17.2 million, providing trainings for 7,655 workers, resulting in 1,548 promotions, 4,951 raises and $40 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings.

Overall, the evaluation data announces another year of achievement for CareerEdge’s innovative programs focused on tangible outcomes. By building workforce capacity through upskilling and additional credentials, and increased access to funding, CareerEdge Funders Collaborative has improved pay scales and created a better standard of living in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Elevate Data Consulting, an independent third party, conducted quantitative and qualitative analyses of the raw data, CareerEdge provided grant reports, and grant management database to produce the evaluation.  The Regional Input-Output Modeling System (RIMS-II), an Input-Output Multiplier dataset provided by the US Bureau of Economic Analysis, was used to estimate type II direct economic impacts of increased wages and jobs.

To access the full report, click here.

About CareerEdge Funders Collaborative

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is an innovative partnership of business, government, and philanthropic organizations, leveraging 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 941.556.4045.

About the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce is a not-for-profit organization that exists to maximize our members’ success, the community’s competitiveness, and the area’s economic strengths. For more information, call (941) 955-8187 or visit online at www.sarasotachamber.com

CareerEdge announces another tuition free Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) FastTrack with Suncoast Technical College

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CareerEdge announces another tuition free Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) FastTrack with Suncoast Technical College

(Mar. 5, 2024) – Sarasota, FL.  CareerEdge is partnering with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to offer a free CNA fastTrack program which will launch in April. The workforce development initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, CareerEdge, continuously seeks innovative programs and techniques to support local businesses. In this most recent partnering, CareerEdge and STC address a major national issue, the nursing shortage, in a local way. This effort supports the academic institution’s mission to help prepare the next generation of nurses while providing an opportunity for individuals in the community to gain foundational knowledge and join the healthcare industry.

The curriculum for this opportunity will be a condensed version of STC’s Certified Nursing Assistant program.  The tuition-free FastTrack begins April 30, 2024, and runs through June 6, 2024 with classes held Monday-Friday from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm at STC’s main campus 4748 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL 34233.  Additionally, Sarasota Memorial Hospital will host the participants for Clinical training during the last two weeks from 6:30 am to 1:30 pm. which enhances the real-world nature of their education. The program will also include CareerEdge’s Bridges to Careers soft skills training where participants learn additional aspects of professionalism.

Interested applicants need to apply for the free program and interview with CareerEdge staff.  Those selected will be notified.  Eligibility requirements include a GED or high school diploma, must be Sarasota or Manatee County resident, apply by Friday, March 29th and pass a background and drug test prior to starting the training.  Participants are responsible for paying for their application fee, certification exam fee, fingerprint testing, and drug screening, reimbursable upon passing the exam. Participants must also complete a medical clearance, provide proof of certain immunizations, and are responsible for covering expenses associated with these steps.  No technical experience is required for this training.  The program is limited to only 15 participants.  For more information go to https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

Funding for the program is made possible by CareerEdge Funders Collaborative and the generous support from its funders and with the support of the local health care business community.

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative receives a $71,000 grant from Truist Foundation to Upskill Workers

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CareerEdge Funders Collaborative receives a $71,000 grant from Truist Foundation to Upskill Workers

Sarasota, Fla., (Jan. 17, 2024) – CareerEdge Funders Collaborative today announced it received a $71,000 grant from Truist Foundation to assist the skills and earning capacity of its community members by providing them with an opportunity to obtain the necessary training and credentialing so that they can enter the workforce successfully.

“We are thrilled to collaborate with Truist Foundation to bolster our Bridges to Careers training programs,” said Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development. “This generous funding provides our community the life-changing launchpad for individuals to acquire foundational skills and industry-recognized credentials, increasing participants’ earning capacity and setting them on a career path within our targeted sectors.”

The grant will be strategically directed toward enhancing the Bridges to Careers program, facilitated by CareerEdge. This effort seeks to enhance the skills and income potential of community members by offering essential training and credentials to facilitate their successful entry into the workforce. The program often employs a “Fast-Track” approach, rapidly upskilling participants within a compressed timeframe, effectively preparing them to meet the skills demanded by employers in today’s job market. This backing will significantly increase CareerEdge’s capacity to equip individuals with pertinent skills, ensuring their readiness for success in their careers. Ultimately, this will contribute to fostering economic growth within the community.

“Truist’s purpose of inspiring and building better lives and communities often begins with helping build pathways to steady employment and financial independence,” said Truist Regional President Steve Fisher. “We believe we can help communities achieve this through increasing access to training and breaking barriers to employment.”

 About CareerEdge Funders Collaborative

CareerEdge Funders Collaborative is an innovative partnership of business, government, and philanthropic organizations, leveraging 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 941.556.4045.

About Truist Foundation

Truist Foundation is committed to Truist Financial Corporation’s (NYSE: TFC) purpose to inspire and build better lives and communities. The Foundation, an endowed private foundation established in 2020 whose operating budget is independent of Truist Financial Corporation, makes strategic investments in a wide variety of nonprofit organizations centered around two focus areas: building career pathways to economic mobility and strengthening small businesses to ensure all communities have an equal opportunity to thrive. Embodying these focus areas are the Foundation’s leading initiatives – the Inspire Awards and Where It Starts. Learn more at Truist.com/Foundation

Empowerment Through Education: CareerEdge Funders Collaborative offers Tuition-Free HVAC Training Opportunity

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Empowerment Through Education: CareerEdge Funders Collaborative offers Tuition-Free HVAC Training Opportunity

SARASOTA, FL (November 8, 2023) — CareerEdge is proud to announce an innovative initiative to address the growing demand for skilled HVAC technicians in our community. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the North Port-Sarasota-Bradenton area has the fifth highest concentration of jobs in the country for this occupation.  We are thrilled to partner with American Vocational Academy (AVA) to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to thrive in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry.  Graduates of the program will earn EPA certifications and industry recognized Heat Pump/Air Conditioner service and installation credentials.

In response to the demand for qualified HVAC professionals, CareerEdge and AVA are committed to making education accessible to everyone, regardless of financial constraints. Our program is made tuition-free through CareerEdge gracious funders, and will provide hands-on training, industry-relevant coursework, and mentorship opportunities, ensuring participants are well-equipped to excel in their future careers.

Program Highlights:

Comprehensive Curriculum: Our program covers a range of essential HVAC topics, including system installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and energy efficiency.

Experienced Instructor: Participants will learn from industry experts with years of experience in HVAC systems, gaining valuable insights and practical knowledge.

Hands-On Training: We believe in learning by doing. Our participants will have the opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios, ensuring they are well-prepared for the challenges of the field.

Job Placement Assistance: Upon successful completion of the program, participants will receive support in securing employment within the HVAC industry through a “Meet the Employer” event. The Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce has established partnerships with local businesses and organizations to facilitate job placement.

Soft Skills Training: The program goes beyond technical expertise, integrating comprehensive employability and soft skills training to ensure our graduates not only excel in their technical roles but also thrive in the dynamic and collaborative work environments of today’s professional landscape.

“CareerEdge is dedicated to creating opportunities for individuals to build successful careers. By offering tuition-free training, we aim to break down financial barriers and open doors to a brighter future for our participants. We believe that investing in the skills of our residents not only benefits the individuals but also contributes to the overall growth and well-being of our community.”  Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge and Economic Development, Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce.

Enrollment for the program is now open. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply at www.careeredgefunders.org, spaces are limited, and candidates will be selected based on their motivation, aptitude, and potential to thrive in the HVAC field as determined by their application and interview with CareerEdge staff.  Applicants must be at least 17 years of age and have a High School diploma or GED.  Classes meet every Tuesday through Friday from 9a to 1p starting January 19th and ending on April 23rd at American Vocational Academy, 1080 Enterprise Ct. Unit D, Nokomis, FL 34725.

CareerEdge Partners with Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation to Strengthen Local Workforce Development Initiative

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CareerEdge Partners with Charles & Margery Barancik Foundation to Strengthen Local Workforce Development Initiative

Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida (September 5, 2023) – CareerEdge, the workforce development initiative led by the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, has been awarded a significant grant from Barancik Foundation. This grant will assist unemployed and underemployed individuals unable to adequately earn livable wages to support themselves and their families because of a lack of skills or credentials needed to launch their careers.

The grant will be strategically channeled toward implementing demand-driven strategies that align with the evolving needs of the job market. CareerEdge plans to leverage these resources to enhance the Fast-Track training programs, on-the-job training initiatives, internship reimbursement programs, and employer-driven upskilling endeavors. This support will significantly enhance CareerEdge’s ability to empower individuals with relevant skills and ensure they are well-prepared to excel in their careers, ultimately fostering economic growth within the community.

“We know that one of the keys to strive for a successful and happy life in our region is a good job with potential for advancement,” said Teri A Hansen, CEO of Barancik Foundation. “CareerEdge helps lift the skill sets of our neighbors to boost their pay and provide them with opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise, and we are grateful for this program.”

Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $15.7 million, providing trainings for 7,194 workers, resulting in 1,548 promotions, 4,775 raises, and $38.2 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings. In 2022 alone, CareerEdge has invested $1.1 million in workforce development, $3 million in added wages, trained 501 workers, created 93 new jobs, provided 170 new employment opportunities, and 671 new certifications were earned.

“This investment in CareerEdge’s programs is critical in supporting our team’s efforts to close skills gaps in our region, providing individuals with an opportunity to gain sought-after skills that will set them on a path with greater upward career trajectory and earning potential,” said Dan Sidler, Vice President of CareerEdge & Economic Development. “We are honored and grateful to continue our longstanding funding partnership with Barancik Foundation.”

CareerEdge and Local Auto Partners Unite for Tuition-Free Auto Lube Technician Training

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CareerEdge and Local Auto Partners Unite for Tuition-Free Auto Lube Technician Training

When: June 6 – August 30, 2023, Tuesday-Thursday 5:30 – 9:00 pm
Where: Suncoast Technical College, 4748 S Beneva Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233
Apply today: https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

(April 13, 2023) Sarasota, FL.: CareerEdge is partnering with Suncoast Technical College (STC), local automotive groups, and dealers to offer a free FastTrack Auto Lube Technician training program in June. Employers are seeking to recruit and rapidly train workers for a unique and high-demand skill set and then further develop these employees through additional training. These “Bridges to Careers” FastTrack training programs continue to attract employer partners.

CareerEdge brought the employers and college together to determine the industry’s workforce needs and to identify the specific curriculum components of this program, which will be a condensed version of STC’s Automotive Service Technologies program.

The tuition-free class will begin June 6, 2023, and run through August 30 with classes held in the evening Tuesday-Thursday from 5:30 pm to 9:00 pm at STC’s main campus, 4748 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL 34233. The program will also include CareerEdge’s “Bridges to Careers” soft skills and employability training. Funding for the program is made possible by the CareerEdge Funders Collaboration community.

Interested individuals should apply and interview with the dealership(s) of their choosing. The dealerships will hire select individuals at $16/hr for full-time positions, prior to the start of training. These individuals must attend the 12-week training.

Graduates of the program will be paid $17/hr full-time with benefits, with the potential to earn additional certificates, skills, and pay increases throughout their career. Eligibility includes having a clean background, agree to a background and drug test prior to starting the training, a valid and clean driver’s license for the past three years, ability to lift 75 lbs., reliable transportation, and enjoyment of hands-on work. Interested applicants must be Sarasota or Manatee County residents and apply by Tuesday, May 18th, those selected will be notified. The online application and links to employers’ applications can be found at:  https://careeredgefunders.org/bridges-to-careers/

CareerEdge’s Workforce Efforts Result in $4.6 million Economic Impact

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CareerEdge’s Workforce Efforts Result in $4.6 million Economic Impact

Sarasota-Bradenton, Florida (April 5, 2023) – CareerEdge Funders Collaborative, the workforce initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, is proud to announce its efforts resulted in an economic impact of $4.6 million. Their funding opportunities, unique programs and strategic partnerships with employers, educators, government officials, and community stakeholders are significantly contributing to the region.  Their commitment and dedication to excellence resulted in high marks in several key areas of the evaluation.

CareerEdge’s 2022 Annual Evaluation shows the substantial impact to the region’s economy, including more than $1.1 million invested in workforce development, more than $3 million in added wages, 501 workers trained, the creation of 93 new jobs, 170 new employment opportunities and 671 new certifications earned.  The highly informative and detailed report includes other valuable metrics including demographics by age, gender, and ethnicity, certifications earned, and increases in annual wages.

Throughout 2022, CareerEdge achieved several notable honors while setting records in contributions to local business.  In May 2022, CareerEdge received Sarasota County School’s Outstanding Business Partner Award for its involvement in the creation of a Tiny Home project.  The two-year project was a combined effort between CareerEdge and Suncoast Technical College to allow students to learn construction-related skills by building a tiny home on the school’s campus.  In other major efforts, multiple “Bridges to Careers” FastTrack training programs contributed to the Marie Selby Gardens’ Master Plan in downtown Sarasota. Since its inception in 2010, CareerEdge and its employer partners have invested $15.7 million, providing trainings for 7,194 workers, resulting in 1,548 promotions, 4,775 raises and $38.2 million in workers’ aggregate annual earnings.

Overall, the evaluation data announces another year of achievement for CareerEdge’s innovated programs focused on tangible outcomes. By building workforce capacity through upskilling and additional credentials, and increased access to funding, CareerEdge Funders Collaborative has improved pay scales and created a better standard of living in Sarasota and Manatee Counties.

Elevate Data Consulting, an independent third party, conducted quantitative and qualitative analyses of the raw data, CareerEdge provided grant reports, and grant management database to produce the evaluation.  The Regional Input-Output Modeling System (RIMS-II) was used to estimate type II direct economic impacts of increased wages and jobs.

To access the full report, click here.