MIAMI — More than 8,000 Florida students will gain valuable hands-on career training through a $14.6 million investment from the Florida Department of Education’s Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant (PCOG), an initiative designed to expand apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship programs across the state.
The funding will support 37 school districts, state colleges, and private training organizations during the 2026–27 school year, providing students with practical workforce experience while helping employers build a pipeline of skilled workers in high-demand industries.
The latest round of grants reflects Florida’s continued investment in workforce education by expanding industry-driven training programs that prepare students for careers in fields experiencing strong job growth.
Since its launch, the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant has awarded more than $120 million to fund 387 proposals, benefiting more than 28,000 students statewide. The program has increased access to proven apprenticeship and pre-apprenticeship opportunities that connect classroom instruction with real-world job training.
Florida has also committed more than $12 billion to workforce education and training under Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration, helping the state earn the nation’s top ranking in workforce education.
According to the Florida Department of Education, the state’s workforce initiatives have produced significant growth, including a 70% increase in registered apprentices, a 49% increase in registered apprenticeship programs, a 153% increase in apprenticeable occupations, and a record 25,000 active apprentices and pre-apprentices—an 11% increase over the previous year.
“Governor DeSantis’ continued investment in workforce education is creating meaningful opportunities for Floridians to build in-demand skills and prepare for rewarding careers,” said Interim Commissioner of Education Paul O. Burns. “By combining classroom instruction with hands-on training, these programs give students a direct path to success while helping Florida employers develop the highly skilled workforce needed to compete and grow.”
Among this year’s recipients are Miami-Dade County Public Schools and Miami Dade College, both of which will receive funding to expand career training opportunities for students.
Other organizations awarded grants include Tallahassee State College, Tampa Area Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, UF Health Jacksonville, AAR Aircraft Services Inc., Boys Electrical Contractors, LLC, the Florida Deputy Sheriffs Association, the Florida East Coast Electrical Joint Apprenticeship and Training Committee, and the Florida Finishing Trades Institute.
For more information about the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant, visit the Florida Department of Education’s Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant webpage.
