U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor released the following statement today regarding a $15 million grant for St. Petersburg College, Hillsborough Community College, Pasco-Hernando Community College and others throughout the state:

“The investment of $500 million in community college students and the jobs of the future is a great shot in the arm for the State of Florida.  Labor Secretary Hilda Solis and the Obama Administration are right on track in their focus on education initiatives that will train our students for the jobs of the 21^st century. 

“This grant will help our students learn advanced manufacturing skills. There is a shortage of machinists, engineers, quality assurance/ inspection officers, and master mechanics and technicians in our state. Now more students will have an opportunity to learn these critical skills and land jobs at some of the leading employers in Florida.

“The Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College and Career Training Grant Program was designed to give students the skills they need to land good-paying jobs. With this investment in education, community colleges will provide the skills training that will prepare students for jobs in fields, such as manufacturing, where demand is expected to be high. That will result in more employment opportunities for students in the Tampa Bay area. Partnerships such as this create a job pipeline for students into local businesses. This grant couldn’t come at a better time for our students and our economy.”