Bay Economic Development Alliance

Workforce & Training

BAY COUNTY, FLORIDA

Workforce Advantage

Within a 60-mile radius of Bay County, there are more than 500,000 residents and a civilian labor shed of over 250,000 workers with the state’s youngest mean age. This energetic, motivated, and productive workforce is ready to meet the needs of employers across industries.

A strong military presence contributes significantly to the talent pool. Each year, nearly 500 service members separate from Tyndall Air Force Base, many choosing to stay in Bay County to begin second careers. Combined with graduates from local colleges and universities, this creates a steady pipeline of skilled, experienced workers.

Hire • Train • Recruit

Bay County’s Hire-Train-Recruit initiative connects businesses with the right talent through local and state workforce partners.

Hire

Through CareerSource Gulf Coast (CSGC), one of Florida’s top workforce organizations, companies gain access to the region’s largest applicant pool. CSGC provides applicant assessment, screening, and referrals — all at no cost to employers.

Train

Educational partners across Bay County deliver customized training programs online, on campus, or on-site at your facility. Many programs are eligible for local and state training incentives, helping businesses expand at no cost.

Recruit

Through CSGC’s Job Center and the Employ Florida Marketplace, businesses can reach thousands of local, state, and national jobseekers. If specialized skills aren’t available locally, CareerSource helps recruit talent from beyond the region — again, at no cost.

Workforce Training Incentives

Incumbent Worker Training (IWT)

Supports existing businesses by providing funds for employee skills upgrades. Priority is given to targeted industries, Enterprise Zones, HUB Zones, and other designated areas.

Quick Response Training (QRT)

Helps new or expanding companies train employees quickly and effectively. Programs are developed in partnership with local training providers, and eligible expenses — such as instructor salaries, curriculum, and materials — are reimbursable.

Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC)

Enjoy sugar-sand beaches, vibrant local events, and friendly neighborhoods that make living—and doing business—in Bay County a natural choice.

Within a 60-mile radius of Bay County, there are more than 500,000 residents and a civilian labor shed of over 250,000 workers with the state’s youngest mean age. This energetic, motivated, and productive workforce is ready to meet the needs of employers across industries.

A strong military presence contributes significantly to the talent pool. Each year, nearly 500 service members separate from Tyndall Air Force Base, many choosing to stay in Bay County to begin second careers. Combined with graduates from local colleges and universities, this creates a steady pipeline of skilled, experienced workers.