[{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2210|2338","Content":"<p>For 73-year-old retired dentist Dr. Charles Ford of Seminole, joining the SPC Community Band 13 years ago was a homecoming. Ford practices in the same room where he played alto saxophone as a student for the St. Petersburg Junior College band in 1970. He’s an example of how SPC’s Lifelong Learning program offers students of all ages an opportunity to grow, connect and thrive.</p><p>As people live longer, healthier lives, the retirement phase has become less about slowing down and more about leveling up. Nearly one-third of SPC’s students are older than 25, with many over the age of 60, representing a diverse community of learners with varied interests and needs. Today’s learners are frequently mid-career professionals looking to pivot or older adults seeking the cognitive and social benefits of staying engaged.</p><p>SPC’s Lifelong Learning program provides flexible, short-term courses for busy learners looking to expand their knowledge in a variety of areas including technology, art and music.</p><h3>Expanding workforce skills</h3><p>Whether seeking promotion, delaying retirement or shifting career focus, many lifelong learners are seeking education to expand their skills and, subsequently, their earning potential.</p><p>In an era when artificial intelligence (AI) and digital tools evolve by the month, expanding skillsets has become a requirement for staying competitive in the workforce. Courses such as AI for Everyone or Using ChatGPT to Scale your Digital Presence help students keep pace with technology and stay current in their fields, or even shift into new positions.</p><p>“Our mission is to provide accessible, high-impact education that meets the moment,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development. “Through the integration of AI literacy and leadership principles, lifelong learners are gaining the tools to not just adapt to change, but to lead it.”</p><p>Whether learning new tools like AI, or mastering Microsoft applications like Excel, in-person, online and self-paced options offer flexibility while customized training can also be developed to meet workforce needs.</p><h3>Creating a social network</h3><p>Beyond professional benefits, the program serves as a heartbeat for community engagement. Whether joining the community band or chorus, learning conversational French, or using AI to plan a vacation, students gain more than a hobby. Personal enrichment courses create a social network built on shared interests and creative expression.</p><p>For Ford, the Community Band offers both musical fulfillment and meaningful relationships. He values the expertise of Nathan Muehl, SPC’s Associate Dean of the College of Arts and Humanities, and finds inspiration from his younger classmates.</p><p>“My favorite thing is being around the younger students,” Ford said. “They are youthful and exuberant, and that enthusiasm rubs off.”</p><p>The band has also provided a social outlet, leading to deep friendships with peers that extend beyond the classroom.</p><p>The beauty of the Lifelong Learning program lies in its ability to serve every corner of the community. No matter what age or stage of life, these students are the threads that make the local fabric stronger. By investing in themselves, they are ultimately investing in a more resilient, knowledgeable and connected community.</p>","Date":"2026-08-31T19:14:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/lifelong-learners.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"older female students holding a paintbrush while she applies color to a ceramic head"},"Headline":"The Rise of the Lifelong Learner","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/the-rise-of-the-lifelong-learner","value":{},"title":"The Rise of the Lifelong Learner","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Lifelong Learning courses prove that the pursuit of knowledge has no expiration date.","Teaser":"Lifelong Learning courses prove that the pursuit of knowledge has no expiration date.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/lifelong-learners-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"older female students holding a paintbrush while she applies color to a ceramic head"},"Title":"The Rise of the Lifelong Learner"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2308|2338","Content":"<h2>ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE (SPC) AND UNITED FACULTY OF FLORIDA (UFF)</h2><p>A public meeting of representatives of SPC and UFF to conduct collective bargaining negotiations pursuant to Article 22 of SPC-UFF’s 2024-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement will be held on September 11, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Epi Center, St. Petersburg College, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, Florida in room EPI BD1-451, 1-453, 1-450.</p><p>Pursuant to the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act, any persons with disabilities requiring reasonable accommodations or assistance to participate should contact the Board Clerk at <a href="tel:727-341-3241" target="_blank" title="727-341-3241" rel="noopener">727-341-3241</a> five (5) business days before the meeting date.</p>","Date":"2026-08-31T13:02:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Titan-logo-placeholder-Image-950.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graphic of a titan helmet on a blue gradient background"},"Headline":"Public Notice of Collective Bargaining Sept. 11, 2026","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/public-notice-of-meeting-and-collective-bargaining-sept-11-2026","value":{},"title":"Public Notice of Collective Bargaining Sept. 11, 2026","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"A public meeting of representatives of SPC and UFF to conduct collective bargaining negotiations pursuant to Article 22 of SPC-UFF’s 2024-2027 Collective Bargaining Agreement will be held on September 11, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Epi Center, St. Petersburg College, 13805 58th Street North, Clearwater, Florida in room EPI BD1-451, 1-453, 1-450.","Teaser":"Public Notice of Meeting - Collective Bargaining Sept. 11, 2026","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Titan-logo-placeholder-Image-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"graphic of a titan helmet on a blue gradient background"},"Title":"Public Notice of Collective Bargaining Sept. 11, 2026"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1378|1570|2312|2113|1379|1325|2433|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-08-26T13:59:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPCDay-2026.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"white, blue and gold balloons surrounding a big gold star and a whilte balloon with the words SPC Day"},"Headline":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/community-block-party-celebrates-the-colleges-99th-birthday","value":{},"title":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"SPC Day brings students, alumni and neighbors together in the historic Deuces Corridor.","Teaser":"SPC Day brings students, alumni and neighbors together in the historic Deuces Corridor.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/SPCDay-2026-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"white, blue and gold balloons surrounding a big gold star and a whilte balloon with the words SPC Day"},"Title":"Community Block Party Celebrates the College's 99th Birthday"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2310|2402|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College is diving into the blue economy with a variety of programs to fast-track students into Florida’s high-demand maritime-related careers.</p><p>The blue economy encompasses marine and freshwater sectors, including tourism, conservation and energy. “This sector is vital to the state’s economy given Florida’s extensive coastline,” said Erica Moulton, SPC’s Assistant Dean of Natural Sciences.</p><p>According to the St. Petersburg Innovation District (SPID), a professional hub that fosters collaboration between the city’s science and tech sectors, there are 92,566 employees of marine businesses within Pinellas, Hillsborough and Manatee counties.</p><p>To meet industry demands, SPC is prioritizing training in related fields like Geographic Information Systems and drone piloting, which Moulton noted offer versatile applications within science careers. These popular industry certifications complement a broad suite of academic programs that support careers in the blue economy, including certificates in Engineering Technology Support and Artificial Intelligence.</p><p>“SPC is well-positioned with offerings in a variety of degrees and focused, noncredit certifications,” said Alison Barlow, SPID Chief Executive Officer.</p><p>Beyond the classroom, SPC students gain hands-on experience through a variety of research and volunteer opportunities, including providing weekly red tide reports to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, conducting research aboard Florida Institute of Oceanography vessels, participating in study abroad trips and presenting at conferences.</p><p>The alignment between SPC’s programs and the maritime industry ensures a thriving regional blue economy. By providing a clear pipeline for skilled talent, the College remains a premier hub in Tampa Bay for maritime career success.</p><h2>Academic Pathways for Careers in the Blue Economy</h2><h3>Short-Term Training</h3><ul><li>UAS/Drones Flight Training</li></ul><h3>Certificates</h3><ul><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/technology/data-science/artificial-intelligence-responsible-use-certificate" title="Artificial Intelligence Responsible Use Certificate">Artificial Intelligence Responsible Use</a></li><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/science-and-mathematics/science/biotechnology-laboratory-specialist-certificate" title="Biotechnology Laboratory Specialist Certificate">Biotechnology Laboratory Specialist</a></li><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/engineering-and-manufacturing/engineering-technology-support-certificate" title="Engineering Technology Support">Engineering Technology Support</a></li><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/building-arts/sustainable-construction-technology-certificate" title="Sustainable Construction Technology">Sustainable Construction Technology</a></li></ul><h3>Associate Degrees and Transfer Plans</h3><ul><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/science-and-mathematics/science/biotechnology-laboratory-technology-as-degree" title="Biotechnology Laboratory Technology AS">Biotechnology Laboratory Technology</a></li><!--<li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/science-and-mathematics/science/environmental-science-technology-as-degree" title="Environmental Science Technology A.S. Degree">Environmental Science</a></li>--><li>Geology</li><li>Marine Biology</li></ul><h3>Bachelor’s Degrees</h3><ul><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/science-and-mathematics/science/biology-bs-degree" title="Biology B.S. Degree ">Biology</a></li><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/building-arts/construction-technology-bas-degree" title="Construction Technology">Construction Technology</a></li><li><a href="/future-students/degrees-training/business/sustainability-management/sustainability-management-bas-degree" title="Sustainability Management B.A.S. Degree ">Sustainability Management</a></li></ul>","Date":"2026-08-19T19:14:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Innovation-District.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"city of buildings sitting on the edge of a body of water"},"Headline":"Bridging the Blue Economy Workforce Gap with High-Tech Training","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/bridging-the-blue-economy-workforce-gap-with-high-tech-training","value":{},"title":"Bridging the Blue Economy Workforce Gap with High-Tech Training","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"From drone certifications to four-year degrees, SPC is mapping out the academic pathways needed to fuel Tampa Bay’s maritime future.","Teaser":"From drone certifications to four-year degrees, SPC is mapping out the academic pathways needed to fuel Tampa Bay’s maritime future.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Innovation-District-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"city of buildings sitting on the edge of a body of water"},"Title":"Bridging the Blue Economy Workforce Gap with High-Tech Training"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2402|2433|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College and CareerSource Tampa Bay are expanding their partnership to help more residents facing financial challenges discover affordable education, workforce training and financial assistance that can lead to stable, high-wage careers.</p><p>Through the partnership, <a href="https://now.spc.edu/careersource" target="_blank" title="career source Tampa Bay SPC page" rel="noopener">CareerSource Tampa Bay</a> will educate eligible residents in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties about SPC's academic and short-term workforce training programs while helping them understand the financial assistance available to enroll. The initiative is designed to connect individuals with career pathways that offer greater economic opportunity and long-term financial stability.</p><p>The partnership highlights programs that address critical workforce needs across the Tampa Bay region, including nursing and allied health, semiconductor manufacturing, lineworker training, advanced manufacturing, information technology, public safety and skilled trades.</p><p>"Education and workforce development go hand in hand," said Dr. Tonjua Williams, SPC President. "Many people don't realize the affordable training and financial resources available to help them prepare for high-demand careers. This partnership helps educate residents about those opportunities and connects them with the support they need to take the next step toward a better future."</p><h2>Connecting students with funding and career guidance</h2><p>CareerSource Tampa Bay staff will work directly with eligible participants to identify available funding opportunities, assess career goals, and provide guidance throughout the enrollment process. SPC will collaborate closely with CareerSource to ensure prospective students receive the information and support they need to begin their educational journey successfully.</p><p>"Affordability should never stand in the way of opportunity," said Keidrian Kunkel, President & CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay. "By working together, we're helping more residents learn about the education, training and funding available to build careers that offer long-term stability and growth."</p><p>The partnership reflects both organizations' shared commitment to strengthening the regional workforce, expanding economic mobility and helping more residents gain the skills needed for in-demand careers.</p><p>Residents interested in learning more about SPC workforce programs and available funding opportunities can visit the <a href="https://now.spc.edu/careersource" target="_blank" title="Career source Tampa Bay" rel="noopener">SPC CareerSource Tampa Bay web page.</a></p>","Date":"2026-08-11T13:46:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/career-source.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a young lady wearing a black long sleeve shirt holding a manufacturing controller"},"Headline":"CareerSource Tampa Bay, SPC Expand Workforce Pathways","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/careersource-tampa-bay-spc-expand-workforce-pathways","value":{},"title":"CareerSource Tampa Bay, SPC Expand Workforce Pathways","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Partnership connects job seekers with affordable training and funding opportunities","Teaser":"Partnership connects job seekers with affordable training and funding opportunities","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/career-source-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a young lady wearing a black long sleeve shirt holding a manufacturing controller"},"Title":"CareerSource Tampa Bay, SPC Expand Workforce Pathways"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2433|2308|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College has appointed Dr. Leslie Hafer as Vice President for Academic Affairs, effective Aug. 3, 2026.</p><p>Hafer brings more than 30 years of higher education leadership experience in academic affairs, student affairs, enrollment management and campus operations. Since joining SPC in 2018 as provost of the St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus and its associated instructional sites, she has led initiatives that strengthen student success, workforce preparation and faculty support while overseeing campus operations and student affairs.</p><p>"Dr. Hafer has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to academic excellence and student success throughout her career," said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. "Her collaborative leadership, dedication to our faculty and employees and deep understanding of our students and community make her exceptionally well prepared to lead the College's academic affairs as we build on nearly a century of educational excellence."</p><p>As vice president, Hafer will oversee the College's academic programs, faculty and instructional initiatives, helping ensure SPC continues to deliver high-quality, workforce-focused education that meets the evolving needs of students and employers.</p><p>"I am honored to serve St. Petersburg College in this new role," said Hafer. "Throughout my career, I have believed academic excellence and student success go hand in hand. I look forward to working alongside our outstanding faculty, staff and community partners to expand opportunities for our students and strengthen SPC's impact across the Tampa Bay region."</p><p>Before joining SPC, Hafer spent 25 years at Georgia Military College, advancing from faculty member to department chair, academic dean and ultimately executive director and chief executive officer. She led academic programs, curriculum development, accreditation, faculty development, advising, enrollment management, academic support services and campus operations.</p><p>Although she has held increasingly senior leadership positions throughout her career, Hafer has remained committed to teaching and continues to serve as an adjunct faculty member at SPC, maintaining a direct connection to the classroom and student experience.</p><p>Hafer earned a Doctor of Education in Leadership from Valdosta State University and a Master of Science in Biology from Georgia College & State University. She also remains active in professional and community organizations throughout the Tampa Bay region. Hafer's appointment comes as SPC prepares to celebrate its centennial in 2027 and continues its mission of providing accessible, high-quality education that transforms students' lives and strengthens the workforce across the Tampa Bay region.</p>","Date":"2026-08-05T15:10:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Leslie-Hafer.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Dr. Leslie Hafer"},"Headline":"Dr. Leslie Hafer Named Vice President for Academic Affairs","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/dr-leslie-hafer-named-vice-president-for-academic-affairs","value":{},"title":"Dr. Leslie Hafer Named Vice President for Academic Affairs","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Experienced higher education leader to oversee academic programs, faculty and student success initiatives.","Teaser":"Experienced higher education leader to oversee academic programs, faculty and student success initiatives.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Leslie-Hafer-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"portrait of Dr. Leslie Hafer"},"Title":"Dr. Leslie Hafer Named Vice President for Academic Affairs"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1320|2307|2433|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College is investing in the future of workforce education through major upgrades to its public safety training facilities. As part of the planned sale of the Allstate Center main building and a broader campus modernization effort, the College is creating modern training environments that better prepare first responders and meet the evolving needs of communities across Pinellas County and the Tampa Bay region.</p><p>A new public safety training facility is under construction at the newly named Public Safety Training Center, replacing the recently sold main building of the Allstate Center. The facility will serve as a centralized hub for classroom instruction and hands-on training for SPC's law enforcement program.</p><p>The project builds on recent investments in public safety training, including a renovated $2.5 million indoor firing range with 32 training stations and a joint-use, state-approved driving facility developed in partnership with Pinellas County. The driving pad was funded through a $1.5 million investment from SPC and $6 million from Pinellas County, expanding regional training capacity.</p><p>"The Pinellas County Sheriff's Office values its partnership with SPC to construct a new training facility specifically for driving," said Jennifer S. Crockett, CPM, Director of Public Relations for the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. "This facility supports public safety agencies throughout Pinellas County by providing a safe, controlled environment for everything from foundational driver training to advanced emergency response techniques. We look forward to continuing our partnership with SPC."</p><h2>State investments strengthen public safety training</h2><p>Recent state funding is helping SPC further expand first responder education. During the 2026 legislative session, the College received funding to enhance its Applied Mental Health Certificate for First Responders and Law Enforcement Field Training Equipment and Support initiatives. These investments will expand Florida's first academic mental health certificate for first responders while adding advanced simulation technology and immersive training focused on de-escalation, crisis response and mental health awareness. Together, the projects will strengthen training for more than 4,400 public safety students annually and support law enforcement, fire, EMS and dispatch professionals across Florida.</p><p>"These programs directly support the safety, infrastructure and well-being of our region," said Michael DiBuono, Public Safety Program Director at SPC. "By investing in modern facilities and aligning programs with industry needs, we are creating stronger pathways to careers while serving our community better."</p><p>College leaders say the investments reflect SPC's long-term commitment to expanding workforce education.</p><p>"This transition represents an important investment in the future of workforce education at SPC," said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development. "By modernizing our facilities and expanding training opportunities, we're ensuring students are prepared for in-demand careers while meeting the evolving needs of employers and public service agencies."</p><h2>Program transitions support future growth</h2><p>As part of the campus transition, the lineworker program will relocate to the St. Petersburg/Gibbs Campus, as will the College's EMT and Paramedic programs. Students will train in a renovated facility featuring an immersive simulation lab, upgraded classroom technology and a simulated indoor ambulance.</p><p>Firefighter training will continue to be held in Clearwater at 5005 126th Ave. N.</p><p>The Paramedic program relocated to the Allstate Center in 2018 as enrollment grew from about 20 to more than 60 students annually. Since then, more than 200 students have completed the program there while participating in interdisciplinary mass-casualty exercises alongside SPC's Law Enforcement Academy, providing realistic, team-based training for future first responders.</p><h2>SPC Public Safety Training by the Numbers</h2><p>SPC serves as a regional hub for public safety education, preparing thousands of students and professionals each year. During the 2024-25 academic year, more than 4,400 students participated in public safety and workforce programs, including local law enforcement officers as well as federal, state and military personnel. The College also offers more than 250 specialized training sessions annually supporting certification, advanced instruction and professional development.</p><p>In 2025, SPC hosted a national nuclear response team at its simulation house: one of only five such facilities in the world. The highly realistic training environment prepares responders for active shooter incidents, disaster responses and other critical emergencies.</p><h2>Building on the Allstate Center legacy</h2><p>The Allstate Center's transformation marks the next chapter in a facility that has served workforce and public safety education for more than 30 years. In 1988, Allstate Insurance Company donated its former regional office to St. Petersburg Junior College. Valued at more than $11 million, it was the largest property donation ever made to a Florida institution of higher education and, at the time, the largest ever made to a U.S. community college.</p><p>Following renovations, the Allstate Center opened in 1991 as the home of SPC's public safety academies, grant-funded initiatives and in-service training for first responders. Thousands of professionals have trained there before serving communities throughout the region.</p><p>As SPC approaches its 100th anniversary, these investments in the Public Safety Training Center continue that legacy by creating modern training environments that prepare students for meaningful careers while strengthening public safety across the region.</p>","Date":"2026-07-29T18:55:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/driving-range-wet.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a white unmarked police training vehicle with red and white light bar on top driving through a gigantic puddle"},"Headline":"College Invests in First Responder Programs","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/college-invests-in-first-responder-programs","value":{},"title":"College Invests in First Responder Programs","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Modernized facilities enhance training and strengthen community impact.","Teaser":"Modernized facilities enhance training and strengthen community impact.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/driving-range-wet-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a white unmarked police training vehicle with red and white light bar on top driving through a gigantic puddle"},"Title":"College Invests in First Responder Programs"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2115|1320|2113|2402|2314|2433|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College is expanding its leadership in advanced manufacturing and technology education with the launch of its new <a href="/future-students/degrees-training/engineering-manufacturing-and-building-arts/engineering-and-manufacturing/semiconductor-cleanroom-operator-certificate" title="Semiconductor Cleanroom Operator Certificate">Semiconductor Cleanroom Operator Certificate</a>, beginning this fall. The 18-credit certificate program will prepare students for careers in one of the fastest-growing sectors of the global economy while helping meet Florida's increasing demand for skilled manufacturing technicians.</p><p>According to Deloitte, the global semiconductor industry is projected to reach a record $975 billion in annual sales by 2026, fueled by increasing demand for artificial intelligence infrastructure and next-generation technologies.</p><p>Cleanrooms play a critical role in semiconductor production, providing highly controlled environments where even microscopic particles are eliminated to ensure the quality and reliability of semiconductor chips. These chips power modern technologies ranging from smartphones and computers to artificial intelligence systems, medical devices and advanced manufacturing equipment.</p><p>The new certificate offers students a flexible pathway into the semiconductor industry, allowing them to gain specialized workforce skills quickly or apply their coursework toward SPC’s Applied Engineering Technology Associate in Science program.</p><p>"The semiconductor industry is driving innovation across nearly every sector of our economy," said Belinthia Berry, SPC’s Dean of Workforce Development. "This new certificate gives students access to high-demand careers while providing employers with the skilled talent needed to support continued growth in advanced manufacturing throughout Florida." The Semiconductor Cleanroom Operator Certificate is the latest addition to SPC's Semiconductor, Mechatronics, Automation and Robotics Training (SMART) Tech programs, which are supported by $7.2 million in workforce development grants from the State of Florida. Earlier this year, the College launched Electronic Assembly Operator and Robotics and Semiconductor Technician training programs, providing graduates with industry-recognized credentials and employers with a growing pipeline of qualified workers. Through collaborations with industry leaders such as Jabil, SPC continues to align its curriculum with workforce needs and expand opportunities for students pursuing careers in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor technologies.</p><h2>Meeting Industry Demand</h2><p>Florida continues to strengthen its position as a global leader in advanced manufacturing and semiconductor innovation, with Pinellas County serving as a major hub for the high-tech industry. Major employers in the region include Jabil, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin, Plasma-Therm and Bigorre Aerospace.</p><p>"With the global growth in AI and other advanced technologies, demand for semiconductor manufacturing and testing is only increasing,” said John Kraus, Vice President of Operations, North America, at Jabil. “For companies like Jabil, it’s critical that we collaborate with academic leaders like SPC to provide our future workforce with the training and hands-on experience they need to hit the ground running when they enter the manufacturing industry.”</p><p>Industry leaders and workforce development partners recognize SPC's growing impact on Florida's advanced manufacturing ecosystem. "St. Petersburg College is a cornerstone of Florida's high-tech manufacturing education ecosystem," said Ernie Friend, Executive Director of the Florida Advanced Technological Education Center (FLATE) at FloridaMakes. "By aligning their semiconductor and SMART Tech programs directly with industry needs, they aren't just teaching students — they are building the highly skilled workforce that will power Florida's global competitiveness for decades to come."</p><p>According to the Florida Department of Commerce, Florida's manufacturing industry employed 434,600 workers in March 2025, representing an increase of 5,700 jobs compared to the previous year. The state is also home to more than 27,000 manufacturing establishments, reflecting a 32% increase since 2019.</p><p>Through hands-on training, industry-aligned curriculum and strategic partnerships with employers, SPC continues to create pathways to high-wage, high-demand careers while supporting economic growth throughout the Tampa Bay region and beyond.</p>","Date":"2026-07-23T12:40:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Semiconductor-fall26.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"student in scrubs working at a microscope with black gloves on"},"Headline":"SMART Tech Program Grows with SPC's Launch of Semiconductor Certificate","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/smart-tech-program-grows-with-launch-of-semiconductor-certificate","value":{},"title":"SMART Tech Program Grows with SPC's Launch of Semiconductor Certificate","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"New credential expands the College’s SMART Tech offerings and strengthens the talent pipeline","Teaser":"New credential expands the College’s SMART Tech offerings and strengthens the talent pipeline","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Semiconductor-fall26-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"student in scrubs working at a microscope with black gloves on"},"Title":"SMART Tech Program Grows with SPC's Launch of Semiconductor Certificate"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"1316|2314|2210|2338","Content":"<p>St. Petersburg College is once again designated a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA), with recognition extending through the 2031 academic year.</p><p>The designation underscores SPC’s continued leadership in cybersecurity education and its role in preparing students to meet the growing national demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals.</p><p>“This designation is a testament to the outstanding work of our faculty and the success of our cybersecurity programs in preparing students for one of the nation's most critical and rapidly growing fields,” said Dr. Mark McKinney, Dean of the College of Computer and Information Technology at SPC. “As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to increase, St. Petersburg College remains committed to developing the talent needed to protect our communities, strengthen our economy and support our nation's security.”</p><p>According to the NSA, the National Cyber Strategy highlights the urgent need to address the cybersecurity workforce shortage and emphasizes the critical role of higher education in strengthening national cyber defense capabilities.</p><p>Strengthening a Critical Workforce Pipeline</p><p>The Tampa Bay region’s defense and security sector spans aviation, cybersecurity, IT, intelligence, advanced manufacturing and training and simulation, according to the Tampa Bay Economic Development Council. Regionally, defense-related activity generates an estimated $16.6 billion in economic impact and supports more than 152,000 jobs, while Florida’s military and defense industry contributes $102.6 billion statewide. SPC’s CAE-CD designation recognizes its role in preparing cybersecurity talent for regional employers and national security needs.</p><p>SPC first received the CAE-CD designation in 2019 for its Cybersecurity Associate in Science degree and has since expanded its offerings to include a Bachelor of Applied Science in Cybersecurity. Commitment to Cybersecurity Excellence The CAE-CD designation is awarded to institutions that demonstrate academic excellence in cybersecurity education and a strong institutional commitment to preparing students for careers in the field.</p><p>SPC will be formally recognized at an upcoming National CAE Program designation ceremony, with additional details to be shared with institutional representatives.</p><p>For information about SPC’s cybersecurity programs, visit the College’s Center for Cybersecurity webpage.</p>","Date":"2026-07-02T12:43:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/cybersecurity-center.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a female student holding a tablet in front of a room of servers against a blue background"},"Headline":"SPC Earns Re-Designation as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"spc-newsroom/spc-earns-re-designation-as-national-center-of-academic-excellence-in-cyber-defense","value":{},"title":"SPC Earns Re-Designation as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"Awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA),the designation underscores SPC’s continued leadership in cybersecurity education.","Teaser":"Awarded by the National Security Agency (NSA),the designation underscores SPC’s continued leadership in cybersecurity education.","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/cybersecurity-center-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"a female student holding a tablet in front of a room of servers against a blue background"},"Title":"SPC Earns Re-Designation as National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense"},{"Author":"","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"2114|1379|2433|2210|2338","Content":"","Date":"2026-07-02T12:43:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Achieva-check-presentation.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of people in business attire hilding a giant check"},"Headline":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC","Link":{"isValid":true,"url":"foundation/foundation-newsroom/achieva-credit-union-presents-historic-1-million-gift-to-spc","value":{},"title":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"A Partnership Built on Community: SPC and Achieva Credit Union Share Nearly a Century of Service","Teaser":"A Partnership Built on Community: SPC and Achieva Credit Union Share Nearly a Century of Service","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":true,"src":"/Images/Newsroom/Achieva-check-presentation-sm.jpg","w":"","h":"","alt":"group of people in business attire hilding a giant check"},"Title":"Achieva Credit Union Presents Historic $1 Million Gift to SPC"},{"Author":"195","ImageCaption":"","CategoryIds":"","Content":"","Date":"2023-10-30T13:28:00","FeaturedImage":{"isValid":false,"src":"","w":"","h":"","alt":""},"Headline":"","Link":{"isValid":false,"url":"","value":{},"title":"","target":"","isCurrent":false,"attributes":{}},"OpenGraphDescription":"","Teaser":"","ThumbnailImage":{"isValid":false,"src":"","w":"","h":"","alt":""},"Title":""}]