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.

CareerEdge Establishes Tuition Free Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) FastTrack with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to Address Healthcare Industry Demand

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CareerEdge Establishes Tuition Free Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) FastTrack with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to Address Healthcare Industry Demand

(March 27, 2023) – Sarasota, FL. CareerEdge is partnering up with Suncoast Technical College (STC) to offer a free Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) fast-track program which will launch in May. 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 community businesses to upskill their non-certified healthcare employees.

The curriculum for this opportunity will be a condensed version of STC’s Certified Nursing Assistant program. The tuition-free FastTrack begins May 2, 2023, and runs through June 14, 2023, with classes held Monday-Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. at STC’s main campus, 4748 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL 34233.  Additionally, Sarasota Memorial Hospital will host the participants for Clinical trainings during the first two weeks of June from 6:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. 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 background and drug test prior to starting the training, must be a Sarasota or Manatee County residents, and apply by Monday, April 17. This is a tuition-free training funded by CareerEdge which also covers two sets of scrubs, a stethoscope, and shoes for each participant. Participants are responsible for paying for their certification exam fee and fingerprint testing, reimbursable upon passing 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.

To read the Herald-Tribune article, click here.

CareerEdge Launching Two Tuition-Free FastTrack Trainings in March

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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 8th 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 6th, 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.

Gulf Coast Community Foundation Awards CareerEdge $125,000 to Train and Upskill Local Workforce

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 Gulf Coast Community Foundation Awards CareerEdge $125,000 to Train and Upskill Local Workforce

Sarasota, Fla. (August 1, 2022) CareerEdge, the workforce development initiative of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, will continue its workforce efforts thanks to a $125,000 grant from Gulf Coast Community Foundation.  This grant award extends the 11-year-long partnership between CareerEdge and Gulf Coast, who was a founding investor in CareerEdge and continues to play an integral role in the region’s workforce development.

CareerEdge will use the grant funds for on-the-job training, internships, and salary subsidies for local employers.  They will also be used for CareerEdge’s Fast-Track training programs.  Fast-Track training is a way for employers to quickly fill in-demand job openings while offering rapid credentialing and certifications critical within the industry.

“Gulf Coast’s generous support will allow CareerEdge to continue the meaningful work of partnering with local companies to upskill and train their employees,” said Heather Kasten, President/CEO of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce. “Companies now more than ever, need a skilled workforce to accomplish their goals and demands.”

Gulf Coast Community Foundation’s cumulative support for CareerEdge now exceeds $1.5 million. The foundation was an inaugural investor when the initiative was launched back in 2009, and it has continued to help steer and fund CareerEdge since then.

“With the one-two punch from inflation, and a protracted pandemic, workforce readiness and economic diversification are greater priorities for our region now, more than ever—and therefore for Gulf Coast Community Foundation,” said Jon Thaxton, Gulf Coast’s senior vice president for community investment and co-chair of the CareerEdge Funders Committee. “CareerEdge continues to lead the way in providing responsive programs that help employers train and retain workers and provide them with career pathways otherwise difficult to navigate in these uncertain times.”