The City of Tampa has launched a summer internship program aimed at addressing labor shortages in trade industries by providing high school students with hands-on experience in vocational fields. This year, 46 interns from Hillsborough County high schools were placed in various city departments, where they gained practical skills in areas such as plumbing, mechanics, and building maintenance.
National data indicates that the United States is expected to face a shortage of 2.4 million skilled trade workers by 2028. The demand covers positions like electricians, plumbers, HVAC technicians, and maintenance workers.
Mayor Jane Castor emphasized the importance of these efforts for workforce development. “Without stronger pathways into these essential careers, the gap between labor demand and supply will only widen, making programs like the City of Tampa Summer Youth Internship Program critical to long-term workforce sustainability,” said Mayor Jane Castor.
In addition to on-the-job training from experienced professionals, the program will expand to include scholarship opportunities for advanced vocational education. The City’s Logistics and Asset Management Department hosted seven interns this year across its Fleet Maintenance and Facility Management divisions and plans to introduce a scholarship program for vocational studies. Graduates who complete their certification may be eligible for permanent positions with the City of Tampa.
For more information about the Summer Youth Internship Program, interested individuals can contact Rugina Castillo at Rugina.Castillo@tampagov.net or call 813-955-3839.
