down an academic program, it happens fast. No drawn-out committees, no years of deliberation. If employer demand dries up, the program closes.This streamlined approach piqued the interest of even the college’s own president when she first arrived seven years ago. “I was sort of surprised at how quickly the college would shut programs that were no longer needed and open new programs that were meeting new program needs,” says Dr. Georgia Lorenz, who leads the institution recently named among the top 10 finalists for the prestigious 2025 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. The recognition places Seminole State in the top 1% of community colleges nationwide, competing for the $1 million award that one president called “basically the Oscars for great community colleges.” Behind this agility lies a sophisticated data operation. The college analyzes semi-annual labor market reports, maintains industry advisory boards for every program, and keeps direct lines open to major employers. Florida’s rapid growth demands nothing less. The state now supports approximately 70% of all U.S. space launches, while Jacksonville prepares to become America’s first hub for autonomous vehicle manufacturing. “We always judge our programs against the predicted demand in the future as well as current demand,” Dr. Lorenz explains. The college partners closely with economic development groups and chambers of commerce, ensuring “there’s no wall between us and the region we serve.” Programs must meet two criteria: address workforce needs and lead to family-sustaining wages. Dr. Loretta Ovueraye, Vice President of Academic Affairs, notes that this approach delivers results. “Our placement rates are very high. On average, it’s about 94%.” MEETING FLORIDA’S HIGH-DEMAND SECTORS Florida Council of 100’s statewide analysis gave Seminole State its roadmap. The study identified healthcare as a foundational sector guaranteed to grow with Florida’s population boom, then pinpointed “best bets” including IT, aerospace, aviation, and advanced manufacturing. “For us, those were big areas,” says Dr. Lorenz. “Construction is another foundational sector that we continue to invest in. We’re remodeling our construction trades building.” The timing proves critical. Space Florida reports the state’s aerospace industry needs welders, technicians, and construction workers to support operations that now account for 70% of U.S. launches. The Space Coast presents unique opportunities 3 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 07 SEMINOLE STATE COLLEGE OF FLORIDA
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