Military expertise is powering Florida’s boating industry via a veteran apprenticeship program.
FloridaMakes has joined forces with Chris-Craft, Orion Talent and the Sarasota Manatee Manufacturers Association (SAMA) to develop a comprehensive veteran apprenticeship program addressing Florida’s manufacturing workforce needs while supporting former military personnel.
The multi-partner initiative leverages the Pathway to Career Opportunities Grant, enabling companies to recruit, hire and train veterans without additional costs. Florida’s boat manufacturing sector contributes more than $31 billion annually to the state economy and supports over 109,000 jobs. Sales of new powerboats and related products reached $6.4 billion in 2024, up 3.1% from 2023.
“This program bridges a critical gap between veteran talent and manufacturing needs, creating sustainable careers while strengthning Florida’s marine industry,” said Marcelo Dossantos, Director of Workforce Development for FloridaMakes. “By combining military experience with specialized training, we’re developing a workforce pipeline that benefits Florida manufacturing.”
“Veterans bring unmatched discipline, technical skills and leadership to the manufacturing industry,” said Kathy Alder, vice president of human resources at Chris-Craft. “Our hiring managers mentioned, ‘these are some of the best candidates we have ever had.'”
The collaborative FloridaMakes Apprenticeships program combines on-the-job training with classroom instruction, offering employers customized training solutions, financial incentives and industry-aligned curricula. Through this partnership, manufacturers can also enhance the skills of existing employees using the apprenticeship framework and grant funding.
“This collaborative effort demonstrates our shared commitment to building a highly skilled manufacturing workforce while supporting those who have served our country,” said Rob Harris, executive director of the Sarasota Manatee Manufacturers Association.
FloridaMakes, based in Orlando, is a statewide, industry-led partnership aimed at strengthening Florida’s manufacturing sector. Through services focused on talent development, process improvement, and business growth, FloridaMakes works to enhance the productivity and competitiveness of manufacturers across the state.
