New Workforce Initiative Expands Training and Job Opportunities in South St. Pete CRA

St. Petersburg College has been selected to administer a three-year, $6 million workforce development initiative approved by the St. Petersburg City Council.

SPC and the City of St. Petersburg are partnering once again to launch St. Pete Works: Employment & Development for a Growing Economy (EDGE), a workforce initiative that expands job readiness and economic opportunity in the South St. Pete Community Redevelopment Area (CRA). The EDGE Initiative will launch in early 2026.

EDGE is designed to connect CRA residents with employment opportunities in the City’s targeted industries while expanding access to training in technical and construction trades. The program emphasizes practical pathways to employment and long-term economic mobility.

As the City’s workforce development partner, SPC brings decades of experience connecting students, jobseekers and employers across the region, including the successful delivery of St. Pete Works since 2020, which placed 433 individuals into jobs and helped hundreds more through training, credentials and wraparound services.

“Workforce readiness looks different for everyone,” said Dr. Tonjua Williams, President SPC. “For some, it’s a degree; for others, it’s short-term training, a certificate, or skill development that leads directly to employment. This partnership reflects SPC’s commitment to meeting people where they are and guiding them throughout their journey toward meaningful careers.”

Mayor Kenneth T. Welch highlighted the importance of investing in people and workforce readiness as a cornerstone of community growth. “Developing and maintaining a qualified and robust workforce is a top priority for my administration and I thank City Council for supporting a program that will benefit hundreds of St. Pete residents,” said Mayor Welch. “This program was intentionally designed to connect participants with the right resources, education and support so they can fully focus on developing their skills and completing their training. When we invest in our workforce, the whole community thrives and I appreciate St. Petersburg College for its continued partnership.”

Gaining an Edge

The EDGE Initiative takes a holistic approach to workforce development by pairing training with wraparound services, including transportation, technology, mental health services and more.

“This agreement centers people and removes barriers to success,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development at SPC. “By combining workforce training with essential resources, we’re helping residents build skills, connect to employment and move toward long-term economic stability while strengthening the South St. Pete community.”

Following a competitive review process, the City moved to award the contract to SPC in October of 2025. SPC’s proposal demonstrated strong collaborative relationships and a proven ability to deliver outcomes aligned with the City’s workforce goals.

Local business leaders also recognized the value of the initiative in strengthening the region’s talent pipeline.

“This program represents a major commitment by our City, thoughtfully designed to serve residents pursuing new careers while helping employers connect with ready-to-work talent,” said Chris Steinocher, President and CEO of the St. Pete Chamber of Commerce.

EDGE positions SPC and the City of St. Petersburg to deliver coordinated workforce solutions that connect residents to opportunity, meet the needs of local employers and strengthen the economic future of the South St. Pete community.