WORKFORCE CAREER BLOG

Florida is growing fast. New housing developments, commercial buildings, and renewable energy projects are popping up everywhere — but there’s a problem. There simply aren’t enough electricians to keep up. 🔧 A High-Demand Career With Excellent Growth According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics , electrician jobs are projected to grow 6% from 2022 to 2032 , faster than the average for all occupations. In Florida, the need is even greater. Recent reports show that the state needs over 6,000 more electricians in the coming years to meet the demand. This shortage is creating incredible opportunities for those ready to learn this essential trade. ⚠️ Growing Shortage + Aging Workforce Every year, nearly 10,000 electricians retire or change careers , but only about 7,000 new electricians are entering the field , resulting in a shortfall.  🔧 Florida Is a Top Market Florida ranks among the top five states for electrician employment and had over 32,000 electricians in 2015 Bureau of Labor Statistics+11Tulsa Welding School+11IECI+11 . BLS projects employment growth in Florida of approximately 12% from 2020 to 2030 —well above national averages 💰 Strong Wages & Job Security Florida electricians earn an average annual wage of $50,000–$60,000 , with experienced professionals making even more. Because skilled electricians are in such high demand, you can enjoy strong job security, opportunities for advancement, and the flexibility to work in a variety of settings — residential, commercial, industrial, and even green energy. 🏆 Now Is the Time to Start With so many construction and remodeling projects underway, there has never been a better time to enter the electrical field. By starting your training now, you can position yourself for a secure and rewarding career for years to come. ✨ Join Our Electrician Program Today! Our Electrician Program provides hands-on training, expert instruction, and real-world experience to get you job-ready fast. Whether you're a recent graduate or looking to change careers, we’ll help you build the skills and confidence you need. ✅ Flexible schedules ✅ Industry-expert instructors ✅ Job placement support 👉 Don’t wait! Enroll today and take charge of your future. Sign Up Now or contact us to learn more. Your future as a licensed electrician starts here!

Registration for the Fall Term is now OPEN!

Great Opportunity for 2025/2026 HVAC Students

A New Era of Opportunity at LaBelle Adult School In the heart of Southwest Florida, a movement is gaining momentum—one that promises to reshape careers and strengthen communities. It’s the return of the trade school, and LaBelle Adult School is leading the charge with a brand-new facility designed to empower the next generation of skilled workers in Hendry County and beyond.

When high school ends, many students face a major decision: should they go to college or pursue a skilled trade? Both options have their merits, and the right choice depends on your goals, interests, and the kind of future you want to build. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each path—and why learning a trade through programs like Plumbing, HVAC, Diesel Mechanics, and Welding in Hendry County might be the best next step for you.  The Case for Trade School Pros: Faster Entry Into the Workforce : Most trade programs take 6 months to 2 years, compared to 4+ years for a college degree. Lower Cost : Trade programs are typically far more affordable than college tuition, and many offer financial assistance or even paid apprenticeships. High Demand : Skilled trades are in serious demand. Electricians, plumbers, HVAC techs, diesel mechanics, and welders are needed now more than ever. Hands-On Learning : Trade programs are practical and skill-focused, perfect for learners who want to work with their hands and see the results of their labor. Cons: Physical Demands : Many trades are physically intensive and may require working in various weather conditions. Limited Scope for Some Roles : While trades offer strong career paths, certain jobs may have less upward mobility compared to corporate or academic careers (though business ownership is a strong option!). The Case for College Pros: Wider Career Options : Some careers (like law, education, or medicine) require a four-year degree or higher. Broader Education : College offers a wide range of classes that can help students explore different fields and develop soft skills. Social Experience : College can offer a vibrant campus life and networking opportunities. Cons: High Cost : Student loan debt can be a serious burden. Longer Time to Employment : Many students graduate in debt and still need time to secure a job. Uncertain Job Market : A degree doesn’t guarantee a job, especially in saturated fields. Why Trades Like Plumbing, HVAC, Diesel Mechanics, and Welding Are Worth a Look Each of these trades offers unique advantages: Plumbing : High demand, great pay, and essential work. HVAC : A rapidly growing field with year-round work and constant technological innovation. Diesel Mechanics : With the rise of logistics and transportation, skilled mechanics are more essential than ever. Welding : A versatile trade used in construction, manufacturing, and art — with opportunities to travel and work on big projects. These trades allow you to start earning faster, avoid massive debt, and enjoy a hands-on, satisfying career. And best of all, they’re all available through Hendry County Schools Workforce Development . What’s Your Next Step? Whether you’re ready to weld your future, turn a wrench on a diesel engine, or bring comfort to homes with HVAC skills, we have programs to help you get started. The first step is simply learning more. 👉 Reach out to Hendry County Schools Workforce Development today. Explore our hands-on programs, meet our instructors, and find out how we can help you build a future you can be proud of. Your career starts here. #SkilledTrades #HendryWorkforce #FutureReady #TradeSchoolVsCollege #HandsOnCareers

It's hard to decide, so we made this guide!

In today’s fast-changing job market, one industry continues to offer job security, great earning potential, and long-term career growth: plumbing. Skilled plumbers are in high demand across the country, and as older professionals retire, the need for new talent has never been greater. If you’re looking for a career that provides stability, excellent wages, and the chance to work with your hands, plumbing might be the perfect fit for you!

Fast-Track Your Future with Career and Technical Education

Welding Day and Afternoon now to be offered in LABELLE!!