Gov. DeSantis awards nearly $15M in grants for workforce development, infrastructure improvements

FORT PIERCE, Fla. – On Wednesday, Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis awarded millions of dollars in grants for workforce development and infrastructure improvements across the state.

In a news conference in Fort Pierce, DeSantis awarded four separate grants: two for state colleges, one for the Sebring Airport Authority and one for Wakulla County.

Press play above to watch DeSantis’ remarks

“Today’s investments in infrastructure are projected to have an economic impact of more than $13 million in our investments in workforce development, will provide up to $64 million in wages for participants of these new programs,” DeSantis said.

The grants awarded on Wednesday include:

  • $4 million to Indian River State College for the Institute for Industrial Manufacturing and Production Training
  • $4.9 million to Miami Dade College to launch new aircraft mechanic training programs, expected to start in 2025
  • $2.1 million to the Sebring Airport Authority to reconstruct and resurface a key roadway
  • $3.5 million to Wakulla County for the development and construction of two new county-owned buildings at Opportunity Park

DeSantis said the new institute at Indian River State College will offer hands-on training in high-demand fields and will support the growing needs of manufacturers in the region.

According to DeSantis, the award for the Sebring Airport Authority will help improve logistics efficiency and create 100 new jobs.

“Our commitment to economic opportunity, economic growth, strong infrastructure, which serves as a foundation of both of those, remains very steadfast,” DeSantis said.


About the Author
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Marcela joined News4JAX in 2023. She grew up in Mexico and eventually moved to California to pursue her dream of becoming a journalist. Now, she is a proud San Diego State University alumna who has many years of experience in TV and digital journalism.

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