Jabil Inc., a global engineering, supply chain, and manufacturing solutions provider, will donate a total of $1.1 million over three years to St. Petersburg College (SPC) to support the development of the College’s advanced manufacturing training programs.

“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.”

Funding is intended to strengthen SPC’s career-focused training; expand student access to technology, lab equipment, and raw materials used in real manufacturing environments; provide scholarships for students seeking soldering and mechatronics certifications; and enhance workforce readiness programs that prepare students for employment with manufacturers in the Tampa Bay area, including Jabil.

As part of this donation, Jabil engineering and manufacturing will collaborate with SPC faculty to develop a high-impact curriculum that provides students with the skills and certification necessary for roles like solderers, robotics, and semiconductor technicians. 

These positions are critical to the production of cutting-edge technologies from automation to renewable energy solutions, helping drive economic growth in the Tampa Bay region and beyond.