A massive coalition of Florida workforce leaders is descending on the Bradenton Area Convention Center this month to reshape how the region gets back to work.
On Thursday, April 30, 2026, the “Apprenticeship Works” regional summit will bring together industry and education heavy hitters to tackle chronic labor shortages through hands-on training models.
The timing isn’t accidental. The summit coincides with the 12th annual National Apprenticeship Week, running from April 26 through May 2. This year’s national theme focuses on “building the future,” a goal local organizers say is best met by letting workers earn a living while they master a trade.
Hosted by CareerSource Suncoast, the event serves as a strategy hub for several regional boards, including CareerSource Tampa Bay, CareerSource Pasco Hernando, and CareerSource Polk.
The goal is simple: bridge the gap between classroom theory and the grit of the actual job site.
“Registered apprenticeships are one of the most effective ways to connect education and industry while creating real career opportunities for Floridians,” said Joshua Matlock, president and CEO of CareerSource Suncoast. He noted that the summit is designed to give businesses a blueprint for building their own talent pipelines rather than just waiting for qualified candidates to appear.
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The morning’s agenda includes a keynote from Adrienne Johnston, president and CEO of CareerSource Florida, who is expected to lay out the state’s broader vision for economic expansion. Attendees will also navigate a series of panel discussions and networking sessions focused on the mechanics of high-quality training partnerships.
For many, the draw of the apprenticeship model is the financial reality of modern education. “Registered apprenticeships allow individuals to earn while they learn, while giving employers a proven model for developing skilled talent,” explained Keidrian Kunkel, CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay. Kunkel emphasized that by working across county lines, these regional partners can better address the shortages in high-demand careers that affect the entire Tampa Bay area.
The summit runs from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. at 1 Haben Blvd. in Palmetto. Employers, educators, and community members interested in the future of the local workforce can find registration details and further information through the official CareerSource Suncoast website.
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