Palm Beach State College apprenticeship programs recognized during county proclamation

Palm Beach State College apprenticeship programs were recognized for the essential role they play in building a strong, skilled workforce during the Palm Beach County Board of County Commissioners meeting on May 5. The recognition comes as demand continues to grow across Palm Beach County for skilled trades professionals in industries such as construction, electrical, HVAC and plumbing.

During the meeting, the Board of County Commissioners issued a formal proclamation declaring April 26 through May 2, 2026, as National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) in Palm Beach County. Observed nationwide, the week highlights the critical role registered apprenticeship programs play in strengthening the workforce. The 2026 theme, “America at Work: Making America Skilled Again through Registered Apprenticeship,” underscores the growing importance of these programs as the nation marks its 250th anniversary.

The proclamation recognized the College for its leadership in delivering high-quality registered apprenticeship programs that prepare students for in-demand careers while supporting local industry needs.

“Through partnerships with Palm Beach State College, the School District of Palm Beach County and CareerSource Palm Beach County, we're creating pathways for residents to earn while they learn, building careers in high-demand fields without student debt,” said Kimberly Lea, PBSC dean of workforce education and development. “At the same time, we're helping local employers develop the skilled workforce they need. This is education and economic development working together.”

The College’s Career Certificate Program (CCP) apprenticeship pathways combine paid, on-the-job training with technical instruction delivered at the College and partner training locations across the county. Programs in high-demand trades such as HVAC, electrical and plumbing typically span four to five years and include approximately 2,000 hours of on-the-job training and at least 144 hours of classroom or lab instruction per year. These programs prepare apprentices for journeyperson status and long-term career advancement.

“We absolutely need vocational schools. We absolutely need apprenticeship programs in this county. It is vital to everything we do,” said Palm Beach County Mayor Sara Baxter.

Palm Beach State College’s apprenticeship programs play a vital role in meeting labor market demands by developing a skilled talent pool and creating pathways to family-sustaining careers. They also help ensure that today’s apprentices become tomorrow’s business and industry leaders.

National Apprenticeship Week serves as an opportunity to celebrate the strong collaboration among PBSC, employer partners and the broader community in strengthening the region’s economic vitality and expanding opportunities for residents through high-quality career training programs.