St. Petersburg College (SPC) contributed $3.5 billion to the Tampa Bay regional economy during fiscal year 2023–24, according to an independent economic impact analysis conducted by Lightcast. The study also found that SPC supports 37,083 jobs—equivalent to roughly one out of every 60 positions in the area—highlighting its role as a major workforce engine. n nDr. Tonjua Williams, president of SPC, emphasized that the institution’s influence extends well beyond its campuses. She noted that each graduate, credential earned, and industry collaboration strengthens the local labor market and contributes to community prosperity. n nThe college offers over 300 academic and training programs tailored to high-demand sectors such as health care, technology, public safety, business, and advanced manufacturing. These career-focused pathways equip students with practical skills, leading to improved employment outcomes and higher lifetime earnings. n nKelsey Krebs, president of SPC’s Student Nurses Association, shared how hands-on clinical training and flexible support systems enable students to balance education with personal responsibilities. She stressed that investments in institutions like SPC directly translate into a stronger health care workforce capable of meeting community needs. n nA significant portion of SPC’s economic contribution comes from alumni productivity. Graduates fill critical roles across Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco, and Hernando counties, helping to close skill gaps and drive business growth. Additionally, the influx of out-of-region students boosts local spending, further stimulating the economy. n nStatewide, Florida’s 28 public colleges form a vital component of economic development. Governor Ron DeSantis’s proposed 2026–27 budget includes $1.9 billion for the Florida College System and $800 million dedicated to workforce education, building on over $12 billion invested since 2019. These funds aim to expand nursing programs, technical education, and apprenticeships. n nDr. Williams underscored that such funding enables colleges to adapt quickly to labor market changes and provide affordable, high-quality pathways to employment. As Tampa Bay continues to expand, SPC remains integral to sustaining regional competitiveness through education and talent development. n
— News Original —n”Economic Impact Data Shows SPC Generates $3.5 Billion for Tampa Bay Economy”nIn recognition of Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in February, St. Petersburg College highlights the significant impact of CTE on the region’s economy. SPC contributed $3.5 billion in total economic impact in the Tampa Bay area during fiscal year 2023–24, supporting 37,083 jobs, or roughly one in every 60 jobs in the region, according to a recent independent economic impact study. n n”SPC’s economic impact goes far beyond our campuses,” said SPC President Dr. Tonjua Williams. “Every student we educate, every credential earned and every industry partnership with SPC strengthens Tampa Bay’s workforce and helps our communities thrive.” n nThe data from Lightcast, a global pioneer in the collection and big-data analysis of information in the labor market, showcases the long-term productivity of SPC alumni employed throughout Pinellas, Hillsborough, Pasco and Hernando counties. n nFueling Workforce Pipelines and Talent Growth n nSPC’s economic influence is driven largely by its role as a workforce engine for Tampa Bay’s key industries, including health care, business, technology, public safety, and advanced manufacturing. Through more than 300 degrees, certificates and workforce training pathways, SPC equips students with job-ready skills that translate directly into higher earnings, increased productivity and sustained regional growth. n n”Career and Technical Education programs like nursing at St. Petersburg College are preparing students like me to step directly into careers our community urgently needs,” said Kelsey Krebs, president of SPC’s Student Nurses Association. “SPC gives students hands-on training, real-world experience and the support we need to balance school, work and family. When the state invests in colleges like SPC, it’s investing in nurses who are ready to care for patients, strengthen our health care system and make a real impact in Tampa Bay.” n nThe economic data reflects SPC’s success in n nStrengthening workforce pipelines by aligning programs with employer needs n nBoosting student employability through career-focused curricula and hands-on learning n nAttracting out-of-region students whose spending contributes to the local economy n nSupplying skilled talent that supports business expansion and innovation n nAlumni productivity accounts for a significant share of SPC’s economic contribution, as graduates earn higher wages, fill in-demand roles and help meet workforce shortages across the region. n nA Key Player in Statewide Economic Growth n nSPC’s impact mirrors broader findings across the Florida College System (FCS), which has been identified as a major driver of statewide economic growth. Florida’s 28 state colleges play a critical role in producing a skilled workforce that supports Florida’s continued population growth, business relocation and national competitiveness. n nProposed state investment in the FCS further underscores the importance of CTE at institutions like SPC. n nGov. Ron DeSantis’ recommended 2026–27 Floridians First Budget includes: n n$1.9 billion for the Florida College System n n$800 million for workforce education programs n nThe proposed funding builds on more than $12 billion invested in higher education and workforce development since 2019 and would support nursing education, career and technical programs and apprenticeship opportunities across the state. n n”These investments recognize that state colleges are essential to Florida’s economic success,” said Dr. Williams. “They allow us to expand high-demand programs, respond quickly to workforce needs and ensure Floridians have access to affordable, high-quality education that leads to good jobs.” n nSustaining Economic Momentum in Tampa Bay n nAs Tampa Bay continues to grow, SPC remains a cornerstone of the region’s economic infrastructure. By providing accessible education, advancing workforce readiness and partnering closely with employers, SPC helps ensure the region has the skilled talent needed to compete, innovate and prosper. n nThe economic impact data affirms SPC’s mission in action: transforming lives through learning while generating measurable economic value for students, businesses and communities throughout Tampa Bay.