Florida achieves historic milestone with record numbers of apprentices and preapprentices across the state

Tallahassee, Florida – Florida is celebrating historic growth in its apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs, with the state’s Registered Apprenticeship System achieving unprecedented levels of participation and success, according to the latest report from the Florida Department of Education. The announcement was made today by Commissioner of Education Anastasios Kamoutsas during Workforce Day at the Capitol, highlighting the state’s ongoing commitment to workforce development and career readiness.

The 2024–2025 Annual Apprenticeship and Preapprenticeship Report shows that Florida now has more than 25,000 active apprentices and pre-apprentices statewide, reflecting a remarkable upward trend in career and technical education. Over the past year alone, more than 2,200 apprentices completed their programs, exiting with an average wage of nearly $28 per hour. For many, this translates to an annual salary exceeding $58,000, offering life-changing economic opportunities.

“These record apprenticeship and preapprenticeship numbers reflect the incredible success of Florida’s approach to workforce education,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “Governor DeSantis’ vision for expanding career and technical education has created life-changing opportunities for Floridians to learn, earn and advance in high-demand industries.”

The report details several significant achievements over the past year. The total number of active apprentices and preapprentices increased by 11%, while the number of registered apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs rose by 4%. Forty-three new apprenticeship programs were added, bringing the total to 344 active programs statewide. These programs now span a wide range of industries, from healthcare and advanced manufacturing to information technology and skilled trades.

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Florida’s apprenticeship system has experienced transformative growth since Governor Ron DeSantis took office. The state has recorded a 70% increase in registered apprentices and a 49% rise in registered apprenticeship programs. Preapprenticeship programs have more than doubled, with a 112% increase in registered preapprenticeship programs. Overall, total apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs have grown by 57%, and apprenticeable occupations have surged by 153%.

This rapid expansion reflects targeted investments and strategic initiatives designed to strengthen Florida’s workforce pipeline. Programs like the Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant have been instrumental in this effort, providing $105 million in funding to over 350 proposals and serving more than 20,000 participants across the state. These initiatives ensure that students, job seekers, and businesses have access to proven training methods that promote practical skills, career advancement, and economic mobility.

The benefits of these programs extend beyond individual participants. By connecting students with hands-on training and industry mentors, Florida’s apprenticeship and preapprenticeship system helps local employers fill high-demand roles while creating a sustainable, skilled workforce. Participants gain real-world experience, technical expertise, and career-ready skills that align with the needs of the modern economy.
According to the Department of Education, the state’s investment in apprenticeship programs supports a diverse range of industries and geographic regions, helping ensure that all Floridians have access to meaningful career opportunities. The growth also reinforces Florida’s position as a national leader in workforce education, demonstrating how strategic public investment and industry partnerships can deliver measurable results.

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Looking forward, the Department of Education is committed to continuing this upward trajectory. Stakeholders emphasize the importance of ongoing collaboration between schools, employers, and government agencies to maintain and expand these pathways. As Florida continues to build its apprenticeship infrastructure, more students and workers are expected to benefit from innovative programs designed to prepare them for high-demand, high-paying careers.

For more information about apprenticeship and preapprenticeship programs in Florida, visit apprenticefl.com. The full 2024–2025 Annual Apprenticeship Report can be accessed at here.