Selby Gardens program graduates class of 10 electricians

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens has prepared 18 residents for in-demand local jobs in the construction trades with the help of an investment of $100,000 from the campaign for development of its master plan. 

Partnering with CareerEdge, the workforce development initiative of the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce, Selby Gardens has supported two fast-track skills training classes. Most of the 18 participants had received job offers before they completed the training, including one who now works full-time for Selby Gardens.

“Our Master Plan is estimated to have an economic impact in our region of more than $78 million,” said Selby Gardens President and CEO Jennifer Rominiecki in a media release. “Investing in innovative workforce training partnership with CareerEdge and the Sarasota Chamber is keeping more of that impact and its long-term benefits here in the Sarasota community.”

The classes were facilitated by CareerEdge through its Bridges to Careers Program. Training was provided in a compressed timeframe and during evening hours, allowing participants to work during the day. The students also received training in life and career skills, and employability. 

Students were considered for employment by subcontractors working on the master plan project site for construction management firm Willis A. Smith Construction.

The most recent fast-track class focused on the electrical trade, with all 10 graduates earning a Level 1 electrical apprenticeships. In the previous class, eight residents completed training in core construction skills. Two graduates from that class were immediately hired by a subcontractor working on the project site.