Jabil has committed $1.1 million over three years to support advanced manufacturing training at St. Petersburg College, expanding access to hands-on technology, industry-aligned curriculum and workforce readiness programmes for in-demand production roles.
Building Skills for Advanced Manufacturing
Global manufacturing solutions provider Jabil has announced a $1.1 million, three-year donation to St. Petersburg College (SPC) to strengthen the college’s advanced manufacturing training programmes and support the development of skilled production talent in the Tampa Bay region.
The funding will expand student access to real-world manufacturing technology, laboratory equipment and raw materials, while also supporting scholarships for soldering and mechatronics certifications and workforce readiness programmes.
The initiative aims to prepare students for in-demand roles in manufacturing, including soldering and robotics or semiconductor technician positions.
Industry Collaboration on Training and Curriculum
As part of the partnership, Jabil’s engineering and manufacturing teams will work with SPC faculty to develop curriculum and certification pathways aligned with current industry needs.
The programme will focus on equipping students with the technical skills required for roles supporting the production of technologies across sectors such as automation and renewable energy.
“We’re seeing exciting momentum in U.S. manufacturing, especially here in the Tampa Bay region. But continuing that growth requires a highly skilled workforce,” said John Kraus, Vice President of Operations, North America at Jabil.
“By investing in St. Petersburg College’s soldering and mechatronics programs, we’re building a pipeline of in-demand talent equipped with training and technical knowhow that can jump into key roles at manufacturers like Jabil from day one — roles that can be the start of exciting, fulfilling careers in a fast-growing industry.”
Supporting Workforce Development in Tampa Bay
Founded in 1966, Jabil is marking its 60th anniversary this year. The company employs more than 3,000 people across three manufacturing sites and its corporate headquarters in the Tampa Bay region, making it one of the area’s largest employers.
Employees also contribute approximately 13,000 volunteer hours each year through the company’s Jabil Cares community engagement programme.
“Collaborating with industry leaders like Jabil makes a direct and lasting impact on our students and our community,” said Belinthia Berry, Dean of Workforce Development at St. Petersburg College.
“This support strengthens our ability to deliver hands-on, career-focused education and ensures our programs stay aligned with current workforce needs. Together, we are creating more opportunities for students to build skills, earn credentials, and step confidently into high-demand careers.”
About St. Petersburg College
Founded in 1927, St. Petersburg College holds the distinction of being Florida’s first two-year institution. Institutionally accredited and nationally recognized, SPC became Florida’s first state college to offer bachelor’s degrees. The College now offers more than 300 programs, including associate and bachelor’s degrees, certificates, workforce certifications, transfer pathways, and short-term training opportunities.
SPC’s career-focused curriculum is developed in close partnership with industry leaders, ensuring that our students gain real-world skills and are prepared to thrive in today’s workforce.
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