DeSantis a boon to workforce development

For the first time in 40 years, the Sunshine State has more jobs than New York. Florida is booming as more and more Americans come south, to states with vibrant economies thanks to strong leadership and smart policies.

One example is the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant, which funds apprenticeship expansion as part of Gov. Ron DeSantis’ initiative to make Florida the top state for workforce development across all industries by 2025. Programs like this are making a difference for those of us in the construction industry who, despite our impressive employment numbers, are still facing a severe skilled labor shortage of more than half a million nationwide.

We are already seeing great results from this program. In South Florida, several of our grant recipients are not only thriving in their craft careers, but they are climbing to the top of their game and are competing in a national competition this week in Kissimmee. On Thursday, the construction industry’s best electricians, carpenters, welders and other craft professionals gathered for ABC’s 34th annual National Craft Championships in an intense competition to demonstrate their superior skills in a high-pressure environment before a panel of judges.

For our competitors, this is the pinnacle of achievement in the merit shop construction industry. We thank Gov. DeSantis and our leaders in Florida for their persistence in supporting the construction workers who tirelessly build the communities in which we live, work and play.

Nathan Ferree Fort Lauderdale Nathan Ferree is chief operating officer of the Associated Builders and Contractors Institute.