FORT PIERCE — Indian River State College (IRSC) will add Yacht Service Technician and Surgical Technician to its growing list of apprenticeship programs with funds awarded through the Florida Department of Education Pathways to Career Opportunities grant program. The $10 million grant program was established as part of Workforce Education legislation passed in early 2019. The initiative promotes career readiness and workforce opportunities for students and working adults, ensuring alignment between Florida’s education and workforce needs. The College will receive grants totaling $775,610.

“The demand for skilled trades workers is rising, and IRSC is prepared to meet that demand by offering a wide range of career and technical education options for our citizens,” says IRSC President Dr. Timothy Moore. “We commend Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature for their commitment to the Pathways to Career Opportunities grant program and for their investment in IRSC and these new apprenticeship programs.”

The Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship infuses on-the-job training with related classroom instruction. Apprentices receive technical instruction by qualified instructors in the yacht industry to provide a solid foundation of the overall yacht service industry and prepare them to move from apprentice to technician. Upon completing the program, a nationally recognized Completion of Apprenticeship certificate is offered by the State of Florida.

The Surgical Technician Apprenticeship program seeks to expand on IRSC’s current Surgical Technology program by providing traditional instruction and an accelerated alternate delivery option where students receive credit for on-the-job training. The program will help local healthcare facilities grow a more skilled workforce while employees receive better access to high-demand jobs, higher wages, and a more secure career path.

Programs are scheduled to begin May 2021. Apprenticeship candidates must be 18 years or older, have a high school diploma or equivalent GED, and commit to on-the-job and in-classroom program requirements.

To enroll at IRSC, or learn more about these programs, call the IRSC Information Call Center at 772-462-4772.