Partner Partner Content CDC of Tampa to expand workforce training with FabLab

The Corporation to Develop Communities (CDC) of Tampa’s newest workforce training program is custom-designed for today’s tech-driven economy. 

The Bay Works Training Center, or FabLab, will be a state-of-the-art fabrication and innovation center providing free, hands-on training with advanced tools such as 3D printers, computer numerical control (CNC) machines, and laser cutters. Developing those industry-relevant technology skills will help individuals from low socioeconomic backgrounds and other job seekers land high-demand careers in manufacturing, construction, and technology.

“We just want to have different options for workforce development,” CDC of Tampa Chief Strategy Officer Jeffery Johnson says. “It is designed to be an area to explore creativity for those who are looking to learn more about fabrication arts and 3D printing.”

He says entrepreneurs who start a 3D printing or fabrication business, but lack equipment, will be able to lease space at FabLab. 

CDC of Tampa already has a large 3D printer to build affordable housing and provide on-the-job workforce training. The FabLab is projected to cost approximately $2 million for equipment, supplies, staff, and other expenses. CDC of Tampa has submitted a $1 million funding request to the Florida Legislature, with $750,000 in federal funding and a $250,000 local match covering the rest.

The funding request to the Legislature says that by “promoting innovation and economic mobility,” the FabLab will be a “catalyst for equitable growth and community revitalization.” Johnson says offering the free training program in East Tampa eliminates barriers such as cost or lack of transportation for some prospective students. The FabLab will be part of CDC of Tampa’s Tampa Vocational Institute (TVI), at 2605 N. 43rd St. in Tampa. The FabLab and TVI will relocate to the East Tampa Innovation Center when that planned 65,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility opens. 

Heroes Landing

Looking ahead, CDC of Tampa’s next affordable housing development to break ground will be Heroes Landing, a 19-home subdivision for disabled veterans in Seffner. 

“Right now, there are different places for veterans to live, but they’re not necessarily dedicated communities for veterans,” Johnson says.

He says a veteran donated the property for the Heroes Landing community on the condition that CDC of Tampa build him a home.

Party With a Purpose

“Party With a Purpose,” CDC of Tampa’s 34th annual fundraiser luncheon, is scheduled from noon to 2 p.m. on Saturday, November 7th, at The Motor Enclave in Tampa. 

The annual event is the main fundraiser that keeps CDC of Tampa’s workforce training and youth programs free for community members. Johnson says it’s also a time to celebrate 34 years of accomplishments, such as the more than 3,500 young men and women its youth programs have impacted, more than 15,000 people who have received workforce training, and the nearly 1,200 individuals and families who have achieved home ownership. 

For tickets and sponsorship information, go to Party With a Purpose

Youth FIRE Academy

Over summer break, the Youth FIRE Academy will provide high school students with the opportunity to explore careers in fire rescue, emergency response, and public safety through field trips, immersive training, and simulations of real-world scenarios. They will earn certifications in basic life support CPR/first aid, teen mental health CPR, and workplace ethics.

“They begin to explore the world of work,” CDC of Tampa Chief Operating Officer Charmain Moss-Torres says. “The classes are led by firefighters and first responders. We find that one of the best ways to impact youth in terms of career is to put them in a position to meet individuals currently in that career. Some of them develop an actual mentor relationship that lasts past the summer. There’s a lot of growth and mentoring that takes place over the summer. It really makes a difference. We want young people to be able to answer that really scary question that happens with all graduates ‘What am I going to do with the rest of my life?’“

For more information, go to Youth Fire Academy