SPC Launches OnBoard Tampa Bay to Power Local Workforce for Infrastructure Boom

Samantha Stanich | 10/30/2025

construction equipment at the site of the replacement Howard Frankland Bridge between Tampa and St. Pete

St. Petersburg College Workforce teamed up with OnBoard Tampa Bay, a new regional workforce development initiative in partnership with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) District 7, to prepare and place residents into high-demand transportation and infrastructure careers. The program strengthens the region’s multibillion-dollar road and bridge investment by helping meet critical workforce demands — while expanding pathways to economic mobility for Tampa Bay communities.

Building a Pipeline for Opportunity

red and blue logo with the words OnBoard Tampa Bay

Florida’s infrastructure sector is growing at an unprecedented pace. In fiscal year 2022–23, FDOT awarded 459 construction contracts valued at $4.69 billion, fueling a statewide surge in demand for skilled workers. With billions more in projects planned across the Tampa Bay region, the need for a trained local workforce has become critical.

OnBoard Tampa Bay was created to meet that challenge head-on — connecting residents with job opportunities in construction and transportation. The program links job seekers directly to over 139 road construction contractors hiring now through onboardtampabay.com, while providing hands-on support to help participants secure and succeed in their new roles.

Why SPC Was Chosen

FDOT selected SPC Workforce as its regional partner for its proven success with St. Pete Works, a nationally recognized model for community workforce development. That program connected hundreds of St. Petersburg residents to training and employment through collaboration and data-driven outcomes.

“The proven success of St. Pete Works created the foundation for this regional model,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development & Corporate Partnerships. “We are excited to expand this work across Tampa Bay through our new partnership with FDOT.”

As part of this initiative, SPC is pleased to announce the appointment of Melvin Shepard Jr. as Project Manager for OnBoard Tampa Bay. Shepard successfully led St. Pete Works for the past four years and will now bring his expertise and leadership to drive success at the regional level.

What the Program Provides

  • Career Pathways Across Skill Levels:
    Training for roles from general labor and skilled trades to equipment operators and project managers.
  • Direct Employer Connections:
    Streamlined access to hiring contractors through onboardtampabay.com, supported by SPC’s employer network.
  • Comprehensive Support:
    Wrap-around services such as mentoring, transportation assistance and career coaching to ensure job retention and advancement.
  • Regional Collaboration:
    Partnerships among SPC Workforce, FDOT, workforce boards and community organizations to align resources and outcomes.

Regional Impact Goals

  • Meet contractor demand with a ready, skilled workforce
  • Reduce project delays tied to labor shortages
  • Promote economic mobility through equitable access to training and employment
  • Strengthen local partnerships to sustain long-term workforce growth

As Tampa Bay’s infrastructure investment surpasses $6 billion, OnBoard Tampa Bay represents a proactive strategy to ensure that residents — and local talent — are the driving force behind the region’s progress. For information or to explore opportunities, visit onboardtampabay.com or contact SPC Workforce Project Manager Melvin Shepard Jr. at shepardjr.melvin@spcollege.edu.