MIAMI – Gov. Ron DeSantis spoke to the inaugural class of Miami-Dade County Public Schools' pre-apprenticeship program students Monday in Miami.
"I'm proud to be here to celebrate with the first graduating class of the United Joint Apprenticeship Committee of South Florida," DeSantis said. "Expanding career opportunities for students like you and increasing Florida's investment in programs just like these is paramount to our success of our state. Each and every one of you should be proud of what you've accomplished here today and be confident in your potential to succeed. We stand behind you, we are invested in you and we are counting on you. Because you are our future."
Eighty-one graduating students received their certification in one of the 12 trades, including air-conditioning installation, electrician, elevator construction, insulation work and plumber.
The 23-month program targets income-eligible 11th and 12th-grade students who complete 300 hours in one of 12 pre-apprenticeship programs in skilled trades. Students participating in the program will be provided with a network of resources that provide a unique pathway into employment.