Career and technical education is a key component to developing the region’s workforce.

That’s why the Greater Naples Chamber supports efforts to expand and enhance career and technical training opportunities both in Collier County and across the state. Career and technical education provides youth and adult learners alike with the training and experience they need to enter the workforce.

“Skilled human capital is the lifeblood of any economy,” said Michael Dalby, president and CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber. “A key part of a healthy talent pipeline is training up new talent, sometimes called emerging talent, when entering the workforce.”

Collier County is fortunate to have career and technical training providers who are not only responsive to industry demands, but are also supported by public, private and philanthropic organizations. Thanks in part to private-public partnerships, career and technical education helps prepare students for the workforce by allowing them to identify passions, get hands-on training and have a better understanding of available careers.

While career and technical education provides students with valuable training, it is also important for our region’s employers. By making these programs responsive to industry needs, career and technical training institutions can ensure students not only receive relevant training experience but also are provided with opportunities for hands-on learning experiences.

The Greater Naples Chamber has played a critical role in serving the community as a connector between employers and training providers. The Chamber also continues to advocate for increased funding to allow providers to expand capabilities and capacity.

Prioritizing work-based learning opportunities, such as career and technical training opportunities, ensures we have a talented workforce now and in the future.

For more information about the Chamber’s talent initiatives, email Alex Breault, the director of talent initiatives, at alex@napleschamber.org.