Celebrating the First Year of the Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub

In 2024, St. Petersburg College unveiled the Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub at the Tarpon Springs Campus. A cutting-edge facility designed to bridge the gap between education and industry, the Hub has since become a thriving center for workforce development with an emphasis on hands-on training and industry partnerships.

Building a Talent Pipeline

One successful program at the Hub is soldering, courses which provide students with IPC Certifications. Taught by Keith Walker, Master IPC Trainer at Honeywell, the program provides soldering skills that are in high demand by local employers.

“IPC is the industry standard used globally for all manufacturers that build electronic circuits,” said Walker, who’s been in the defense industry for more than 30 years and has taught the program for 20 years. “Several companies in the Tampa Bay area are looking for this certification. It’s great to have on your resume, especially for entry level jobs. It’s also good for technicians, inspectors, assemblers, engineers, designers. If you work in electronics, this certification gives you marketable skills.”

While not new to SPC, the expansion of this training to the Tarpon Springs Campus offers access and employment opportunities in North Pinellas County. Soldering certification can lead to immediate employment opportunities with starting wages up to $25 per hour.

“The goal is to create a talent pipeline, much like SPC’s lineworker program,” said Rod Davis, Provost of the Tarpon Springs Campus. “Employers are searching for skilled manufacturing technicians, and we are providing that talent.”

Business and Community Partnerships

The Hub also serves as a meeting place for students and clubs, community members and industry professionals. With sleek, modern gathering space, work spaces and classrooms for conferences, training and presentations, the Hub provides premium event space for businesses and community organizations. Among those using the space include NASA, Jabil, Lockheed Martin, Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office, Bay Area Manufacturers Association and MicroLumen.

Business partnerships also provide students with opportunities to showcase their skills and connect with industry leaders through competitions and events. As today’s manufacturing jobs require more technical skills, the Hub’s lab space and equipment, along with industry partnerships, are preparing students for careers in advanced manufacturing, engineering and design.

“Together with our partners, we’re changing perceptions of modern manufacturing, making it more accessible and attractive to diverse talent, including women and high school graduates looking to go right into the job market,” Davis said. “And we’re continuously looking for new corporate partners and innovative courses that meet the changing demands of industry.”

Looking ahead

In addition to programs such as soldering and SolidWorks, new courses in CNC machining and entrepreneurship are also on the horizon. With capabilities for 3D printing and laser etching, expansion of hands-on training will provide students with cutting-edge skills that are applicable across industries.

As the Workforce Innovation Hub enters its second year, the focus remains on growth, collaboration and preparing students for high-demand careers. With new programs, industry engagement and a strong commitment to hands-on learning, SPC is paving the way for the next generation of skilled professionals.