Jabil Donates $1.1 Million to SPC to Expand Advanced Manufacturing Training

4/2/2026

As Jabil celebrates its 60th anniversary this year and St. Petersburg College prepares to mark its 100th anniversary in 2027, the two institutions are coming together around a shared commitment to the future of Tampa Bay: investing in education, workforce development and opportunity for the next generation.

As demand for skilled workers continues to rise in the manufacturing sector, Jabil is investing in the future of workforce education at SPC.

Jabil, a global engineering, supply chain and manufacturing solutions provider, announced it will donate $1.1 million over three years to SPC to support the growth of the College’s advanced manufacturing training programs and help prepare students for high-demand careers in the Tampa Bay region.

The investment will strengthen SPC’s career-focused workforce training by expanding student access to technology, lab equipment and raw materials used in real manufacturing environments. It will also provide scholarships for students pursuing soldering and mechatronics certifications and enhance workforce readiness programs that connect students with employers in the Tampa Bay region, including Jabil.

Expanding Advanced Manufacturing Workforce Training at SPC

The funding will help SPC continue to build programs that prepare students for careers in advanced manufacturing, robotics, semiconductor production and industrial technology.

As part of the partnership, Jabil engineering and manufacturing professionals will work directly with SPC faculty to help develop an industry-aligned curriculum that reflects current workforce needs. The collaboration will support training for in-demand roles such as:

• Solderers
• Robotics technicians
• Semiconductor technicians
• Mechatronics professionals

These careers are critical to industries ranging from automation and electronics to renewable energy and high-tech manufacturing.

Across Florida, manufacturing is one of the state’s target industries and is home to more than 26,000 manufacturing companies that employ more than 427,000 workers.

Creating Career Pathways for Students in Tampa Bay

SPC leaders said the investment will create more opportunities for students to gain the skills and credentials needed to enter a growing field.

“Workforce is here and it is not going anywhere,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development at SPC. “There are so many pathways within advanced manufacturing, and this support helps us continue to provide hands-on, career-focused education that prepares students for real opportunities.”

Berry said the partnership strengthens SPC’s ability to offer upskilling, certification and technical training programs that lead directly to employment.

“Collaborating with industry leaders like Jabil makes a direct and lasting impact on our students and our community,” said Berry. “This support ensures our programs stay aligned with current workforce needs. Together, we are creating more opportunities for students to build skills, earn credentials and step confidently into high-demand careers.”

The partnership also reflects SPC’s continued commitment to building strong relationships with employers and industry leaders. Berry emphasized that partnerships with employers throughout the region are crucial for student success and expanding workforce opportunities for graduates.

Jabil Invests in Tampa Bay Talent Pipeline

For Jabil, the investment is part of a broader strategy to support the talent pipeline needed to sustain manufacturing growth in the region.

“We’re seeing exciting momentum in U.S. manufacturing, especially here in the Tampa Bay region,” said John Kraus, Vice President of Operations, North America at Jabil. “But continuing that growth requires a highly skilled workforce."

“By investing in SPC’s soldering and mechatronics programs, we’re building a pipeline of in-demand talent equipped with training and technical know-how that can jump into key roles at manufacturers like Jabil from day one, roles that can be the start of exciting, fulfilling careers in a fast-growing industry,” said Kraus.

During remarks at the announcement in March, Kraus said Jabil remains focused on one essential need: people.

“We need skilled people to transform the products,” said Kraus. “This is a partnership and we’re committed to it.”

That need is growing quickly. Kraus shared that one of Jabil’s local manufacturing facilities recently surpassed 1,500 employees and is expected to add another 300 jobs in the next three months. Across the Tampa Bay area, he said, the company expects to have more than 3,500 manufacturing-dedicated team members.

“We have deep roots in this area,” said Kraus. “We want to be part of our community, but I also want to grow my talent within this region. This relationship gives me that opportunity.”

Supporting Economic Growth in the Tampa Bay Region

With more than 3,000 employees across its three local manufacturing sites and corporate headquarters, Jabil is one of the largest employers in the Tampa Bay region and a major contributor to the local economy.

Through its Jabil Cares community engagement platform, local employees also contribute approximately 13,000 volunteer hours each year.

The investment in SPC’s advanced manufacturing programs reflects continued momentum in workforce development, technical education and regional economic growth.

Learn How to Get Started

Students interested in advanced manufacturing training at SPC can learn more through the College’s Workforce Development programs. Those interested in career opportunities at Jabil can explore available positions through the company’s careers page.