$430K Awarded To Manatee Technical College For Diesel Tech Course

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — Through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund, Gov. Ron DeSantis awarded $430,000 to Manatee Technical College for its diesel systems technology course.

The program prepares highly skilled workers for in-demand jobs in the transportation, distribution and logistics industries, according to a news release from the governor’s office.

“Advancing Florida’s workforce continues to be a top priority for my administration and this program will further expand opportunities for Floridians to gain skills as diesel technicians — one of the state’s most in demand industries,” DeSantis said.

Henry Mack, senior chancellor at the Florida Department of Education, added, “The idea that every student needs a university degree to be successful is mistaken,”. “We know that programs like diesel mechanics and the other valuable programs at Manatee Technical College result in earnings that rival most baccalaureate programs. This is an exciting step for the region in promoting the value of a career and technical education.”

The Florida Job Growth Grant Fund is an economic development program designed to promote public infrastructure and workforce training across the state. Proposals are reviewed by Florida Department of Economic Opportunities and Enterprise Florida, Inc., and are chosen by the governor to meet the demands for workforce training or infrastructure needs in communities around the state.

DEO and EFI are currently accepting proposals until all funding has been awarded.