April 22, 2013

“Florida’s talent pipeline begins in the classroom. As new industries emerge and others, such as manufacturing, welcome a resurgence, we must prepare our students for a job market that increasingly requires highly skilled and trained employees. 

Associated Industries of Florida (AIF) applauds Gov. Rick Scott and the Florida Legislature for signing and passing the Career and Professional Education Act of 2013, which will link educational opportunities with the business needs of today and tomorrow. On behalf of our members, I thank Sen. John Legg (R-Lutz), the author of this bill, for his vision and leadership, as well as President Don Gaetz (R-Niceville) and Speaker Will Weatherford (R-Wesley Chapel) who were instrumental in its passage.

The provisions in this bill will allow our schools and businesses to work hand-in-hand to develop curriculum and real-world training that aligns with the types of skills our current and future workforce demands. From K-12 to college, students will be able to earn industry certifications and credentials that will position them for high-wage jobs.

Businesses will also benefit from having a pool of potential employees who are ready to hit the ground running. The Career and Professional Education Act not only helps retain our existing businesses and industry by cultivating home-grown talent, but also makes the Sunshine State an even more attractive place to locate a business.

Florida is already a great place to do business, and we continue to work toward putting policies into place that will make our state the best place to do business. This bill signed into law today by Gov. Scott will help move Florida toward a vibrant, knowledge-based economy and increase our global competitiveness.”