Pictured: Future-Ready Scholars at Education Foundation of Sarasota County took part in a career exploration at Sarasota County Fire Station No. 9. Career explorations provide opportunities for students to consider postsecondary car0eer paths.

Florida’s economic future depends on its people — on students who are ready not only to graduate but to step confidently into careers that sustain our local communities and drive statewide growth. The new Talent Strong Sarasota initiative highlights the collaborative effort happening right here at home to help every student graduate with a plan, a pathway, and a purpose.

We’ve often heard people say that “college isn’t for everyone.” Looking at it through today’s lens let’s consider reframing that — “education beyond high school is for everyone,” because our students are entering a world that demands it. Whether that means earning a technical certificate, industry credential, associate degree, or bachelor’s degree, continuing to learn is no longer optional — it’s essential.

The statewide Talent Strong Florida campaign, powered by the Florida College Access Network (FCAN), builds on research showing that postsecondary education is a powerful economic driver. The Helios Education Foundation’s recent Florida Future Billions report revealed that when more Floridians earn a college degree or credential, communities see billions in added economic impact.

Our local college access network (LCAN), PLANit Sarasota, is leading this campaign in our region, bringing together partners and organizations that believe today’s youth will make crucial workforce contributions to our community in the future. Dr. Kimberly Krupa, network development and engagement consultant for FCAN touched on this and more in our recent Education Conversations podcast. (https://edfoundationsrq.org/podcast/s3e5-florida-college-access-network-local-connections-statewide-impact/)

Sarasota’s workforce landscape is rapidly evolving. As industries — from healthcare and manufacturing to technology and the arts — adapt to new demands, local employers are eager to connect with the next generation of skilled, educated talent. By aligning education and workforce priorities, Talent Strong Sarasota will create bridges between classrooms and careers.

Our new economy rewards curiosity, flexibility, collaboration, and lifelong learning — and it requires students to build skills beyond academics. They must embrace adaptability and continuous learning; collaboration and communication; critical thinking and problem-solving; emotional intelligence and self-awareness; and, most importantly, purpose and agency — knowing how to navigate choices and transitions.

We invite Sarasota’s business, nonprofit, and education communities to join us and PLANit Sarasota to help students graduate with a plan. Partner with PLANit, support efforts to increase FAFSA completion and postsecondary access, and mentor or apprentice students today who can contribute to your business or organization tomorrow.

Because when our community invests in its students, we build not just stronger individuals, but a stronger, more resilient Sarasota.

Jennifer Vigne is the President and CEO of the Education Foundation of Sarasota County and powers PLANit Sarasota.

Pictured: Future-Ready Scholars at Education Foundation of Sarasota County took part in a career exploration at Sarasota County Fire Station No. 9. Career explorations provide opportunities for students to consider postsecondary car0eer paths.