The Florida Chamber Foundation’s Future of Work Initiative has started a new series of workforce roundtables aimed at bringing together leaders to address talent pipeline needs across the state. The first event in Tallahassee, hosted with Florida State University, is part of a broader effort to help businesses and communities prepare for future job demands.
Mark Wilson, President & CEO of the Florida Chamber of Commerce and Foundation, highlighted the importance of these efforts: “Businesses in the Tallahassee Region need to create approximately 25,000 new jobs by 2030 and Florida’s workforce is the backbone of our economy, and the future depends on the partnerships and best practices we create today. These roundtables provide local leaders an opportunity to discuss regional challenges, share what’s working, and identify solutions to strengthen Florida’s talent pipeline by leveraging localized workforce data.”
The roundtable also features a re-entry simulation led by Amy Frizzell from the Florida Department of Corrections. This activity aims to give participants insight into challenges faced by Floridians re-entering the workforce after incarceration.
Erica Averion, Executive Director of the Florida Foundation for Correctional Excellence, commented on the significance of supporting re-entry: “Re-entry is about more than a second chance. It is about building stronger families and communities by helping people find meaningful employment. When we connect data with action, we create opportunities that reduce recidivism and strengthen Florida’s workforce.”
Rachel Ludwig, Vice President of Talent Development for the Future of Work at the Florida Chamber Foundation, explained the goal behind these discussions: “The real work happens at the local level. By equipping regional leaders with both state and local insights into Florida’s talent supply and demand gaps and opportunities, we can move the needle on strengthening our workforce pipeline from cradle to career.”
Upcoming roundtables are scheduled in Jacksonville (in partnership with Miller Electric), Orlando (with Valencia College), Miami (with United Way), Fort Lauderdale (with Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance), Fort Myers (with Florida Gulf Coast University), and Pensacola (with Pensacola State College).
Rob Liddell, AVP of FSU’s Career Services and Advisory Board member for the Future of Work Initiative, emphasized collaboration: “Employers, educators and community leaders all play a vital role in preparing Floridians for the jobs of today and tomorrow. These conversations help us better understand the opportunities ahead and ensure we are building a talent pipeline that supports both our people and our economy.”
More information about workforce data resources can be found at www.FLTalentData.org.
The Florida Chamber Foundation is a business-led research organization focused on long-term strategies for economic growth in Florida. Its work includes improving the state’s talent pipeline and supporting economic diversification through technology and innovation.
