FROM THE PUBLISHER
Workforce development is one of the most discussed topics in boardrooms, economic development meetings and legislative chambers across Florida. But as you ' ll discover throughout this issue of EVOLVE, building a stronger workforce is about much more than filling jobs. It ' s about creating a connected talent pipeline that begins early, grows through education and experience, and is strengthened by collaboration at every stage.
Our cover story,‘ Building Florida’ s Talent Pipeline Starts with Fighting Childhood Poverty,’ explores how employers, educators and community organizations are embracing a cradle-to-career approach to talent development. The message is clear: the future workforce is shaped long before someone enters the job market. Early learning, mentorship, career exposure and access to opportunity all play a critical role in preparing the next generation for success.
That theme continues in‘ Where Opportunity Begins,’ which highlights the remarkable work of Food Brings Hope. The story serves as a powerful reminder that workforce readiness often starts with meeting basic needs. When children have access to food, support, stability and opportunity, they gain the foundation needed to thrive in school, careers, and life.
This issue also showcases innovative programs creating pathways into high-demand careers today. From healthcare scholarships, internships and apprenticeships at Halifax Health and Daytona State College, to new firefighting training opportunities at Cocoa High School, to workforce and professional development initiatives emerging across St. Johns and Volusia counties, organizations throughout our region are investing in talent with purpose and intention.
The numbers tell an important story as well. Across St. Johns, Flagler, Volusia and Brevard counties, more than 75,000 net new jobs are projected to be needed by 2030. Meeting that demand will require smart investments, strong partnerships and a shared commitment to developing talent at every level.
The encouraging news is that our communities are already rising to the challenge. Business leaders, educators, nonprofit organizations and public-sector partners are working together to ensure that opportunity is accessible and that the workforce of tomorrow is being developed today.
Success tomorrow demands that level of collaboration and partnership.
PUBLISHER Howard M. Holley
CHIEF CONTENT OFFICER Elesha Mavrommatis
ART DIRECTOR Leslie Proctor
CHIEF OPERATING AND SALES OFFICER Jeanne Coates
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Yvette Alleman
EDITORIAL ADVISORY BOARDS
First Coast Region Eric Becher • Vavarde Strategic Funding Cindy Dalecki • Marketing 2 Go Maks Levanovich • SouthState Bank Craig McKinney • City of Palm Coast Scott Maynard • St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce Sarah McPherson • Advent Health Dr. Sandra Miles • DSM Initiatives, LLC Sherri Mitchell • Nassau County Economic Development Board Dr. Daniel Ray • St. Johns River State College
Space Coast Region Nick Conte • City of DeLand Richard Cooper • Foundation Risk Partners Heather Edwards • Volusia County Economic Development Department John Guthrie, Halifax Health Tracy Marino • Team Volusia EDC Dean O’ Brien • 06 Marketing LLC Brian Rademacher • City of Ormond Beach Kate Sark • Ocean Center Amy Workowski • The W Agency
INTERESTED IN ADVERTISING? If you would like to advertise in EVOLVE, please call 386.449.8353 or email us at info @ TouchPointIS. com
HOWARD M. HOLLEY Co-Publisher
CONTACT US info @ TouchPointIS. com
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