Program Focuses on Increasing Talent for Region’s In-Demand IT Jobs


March 26, 2015



TAMPA, Fla. / CareerSource Tampa Bay’s new Information Technology (IT) apprenticeship program is developing the region’s talent pool through an “earn and learn” training model that combines on-the-job training and tuition-free related technical instruction at no cost to employers. The Tampa Bay IT Apprenticeship Program, a partnership that includes CareerSource Pinellas, Pinellas Technical College, and Aparicio-Levy Technical Center, provides tuition-free education, hands-on training, and certification within the IT industry. Community partners Tampa Bay Technology Forum and Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation endorse this initiative as a solution to foster top IT talent in Tampa Bay.
 
“CareerSource Tampa Bay’s IT Apprenticeship Program offers a win for employers and those who want to learn the requisite skills to launch successful careers in our local IT industry,” said Rick Homans, President & CEO of the Tampa Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation. “This collaboration between the agency, education providers, and employers provides a timely solution to our regional workforce needs that will lay the foundation for our long term economic competitiveness in the technology industry.”
 
Funded in part by a $3.8m grant awarded by the U.S. Department of Labor, the program provides a structured training method where employees can learn skills recognized by the industry and directly relate to four in-demand IT occupations: Applications Developer (Software), Applications Developer (Web), Help Desk Technician, and Network Support Technician. Information Assurance Specialist (Cyber Security) and other occupations will be added later this year.
 
“Tampa Bay has a wealth of IT jobs available but employers are finding it difficult to fill these in-demand positions with qualified, skilled workers. One advantage to this program is that employers utilize existing employees; someone who is already familiar with the company’s methods and culture. The participant will learn while on-the-job and receive related technical training and classroom instruction in the IT occupation specific to the industry’s needs,” said Ed Peachey, President and CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay.
 
Benefits to companies that participate in the program include recruiting and developing a quality workforce with the skills they desire, improving productivity, increasing worker retention and reducing turnover costs, and standardized and structured training – employees receive the same industry-recognized credentials.
 
To learn more about Tampa Bay IT Apprenticeship Program and how companies can participate, visit: www.careersourcetampabay.com.
 
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About CareerSource Tampa Bay:
CareerSource Tampa Bay is a member of the CareerSource Florida workforce system. CareerSource Tampa Bay is an equal opportunity employer/program. Auxiliary aids and services are available upon request to individuals with disabilities by calling TTY/TDD 711.

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