Junior Achievement receives $55K grant for workforce training

Junior Achievement of Southwest Florida received a $55,000 grant from the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation to support its pre-apprenticeship program for Lee County high school seniors. The funding will help enroll 40 students during the 2026-27 grant period, providing hands-on training and career preparation for skilled trades. Participants will receive safety instruction, technical skills training, interview preparation and opportunities to earn industry credentials, including OSHA 10, first aid and forklift certifications. The program also connects students with local employers and apprenticeship opportunities. During the 2025-26 school year, Junior Achievement served 16,995 students across Lee, Collier and Charlotte counties.