A KEY TO VOLUSIA’ S SUCCESS
“ Volusia County Economic Development works closely with local businesses to make sure there’ s a strong talent pipeline in place,” he said.“ To accomplish this, we constantly track employment data, like job trends, wages and degree completions to spot shifts in the local workforce. When we see something important, we don’ t just analyze it, we talk directly with businesses to understand their needs. Then we bring in the right partners, like CareerSource, local schools, and colleges, to figure out how to address any gaps. It’ s a hands-on, collaborative approach to making sure businesses have access to the skilled workers they need now and in the future.”
Paris said Volusia County is fortunate to have local partners who understand that workforce development is critical to economic vitality and can offer programs that include a range of skills that align with the needs of the types of industries expected to grow in the region to keep the talent pipeline strong.
“ Volusia County benefits from a strong foundation for developing and sustaining a workforce with skills that align with current industry immediate needs, thanks to strong collaboration between local businesses and community partners,” he said.“ Employers here are often open to upskilling workers who show a willingness to learn, which makes it possible to design and deliver training programs that directly align with current industry needs.
That collaboration also relies on the area’ s educational institutions that prepare residents to become the kind of skilled workers 21st century industries are looking for.
“ Our local high schools offer academies that help students explore career paths aligned with their interests and regional job market needs, creating early connections between education and opportunity,” Paris said.“ We also benefit from higher-education institutions and workforce development partners like CareerSource Brevard Flagler Volusia, who offer training programs tailored to the skills demanded by our fastest-growing industries. It ' s a well-connected ecosystem that keeps our workforce pipeline strong and responsive to changing economic demands.”
Paris said while Volusia County has been successful in workforce development efforts there is always room for improvement.
“ One key area where our community can improve is in strengthening the connection between local businesses and students who are nearing graduation,” he said.“ On one side, local businesses are actively searching for qualified talent, while our colleges and universities like Stetson University, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, Daytona State College and Bethune-Cookman University are producing exceptional graduates ready to contribute, but many students leave the area simply because they’ re unaware of the opportunities that exist here. To stay competitive, we need to create stronger bridges between employers and these students, through internships, mentorships, career fairs and targeted outreach. That way they see a clear future for themselves in Volusia County. This kind of connection will help retain top talent and keep our workforce pipeline strong and aligned with the needs of local industry.”
AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2025 | 29 |