The Business Development Board of Palm Beach County (BDB) continues to strengthen the region’s talent pipeline by connecting higher education leaders with companies bringing high-skill jobs to the Palm Beaches.
On March 4, the BDB hosted its latest Academic Leaders Council meeting, bringing together presidents and senior leaders from local colleges and universities along with representatives from the School District of Palm Beach County and CareerSource Palm Beach County. The council meets throughout the year to align industry workforce needs with academic programs, ensuring local students are prepared for emerging career opportunities.
Connecting Education Leaders with Expanding Employers
The meeting featured an “Industries of the Future” discussion with four innovative companies that have recently relocated or expanded operations in Palm Beach County with support from the Business Development Board.
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D-Wave – a global leader in quantum computing relocating to Boca Raton
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ServiceNow – a global leader in artificial intelligence opening in West Palm Beach
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Voloridge – a global leader in quantitative investment based in Jupiter
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Ampera – an advanced nuclear energy company opening in Palm Beach Gardens
Together, these companies represent thousands of new high-skill jobs in fields such as technology, engineering, data science, and advanced business services.
Executives shared insights about their Palm Beach County expansion plans, hiring timelines, and the specialized skills needed for future employees.
Building the Talent Pipeline in Palm Beach County
During the session, university presidents and academic leaders highlighted existing programs, workforce training initiatives, and partnership opportunities that support the region’s rapidly evolving industries.
Participating institutions included:
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Florida Atlantic University
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Palm Beach State College
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Palm Beach Atlantic University
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Keiser University
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Nova Southeastern University
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The School District of Palm Beach County
These institutions play a critical role in preparing students for careers in advanced technology, engineering, finance, healthcare, and emerging innovation sectors.
Creating Partnerships Between Industry and Education
The collaborative discussion produced several immediate outcomes, including:
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Direct connections between company leaders and academic institutions
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Exploration of new internship, apprenticeship, and research partnerships
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Opportunities for companies to participate in career fairs and on-campus recruiting
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Stronger alignment between curriculum development and industry workforce needs
By connecting employers with educators, the Academic Leaders Council helps ensure Palm Beach County companies can recruit skilled local talent while providing students with clear career pathways.
Supporting Job Growth in the Palm Beaches
The BDB’s Academic Leaders Council is one of several initiatives designed to strengthen the regional workforce ecosystem as companies relocate and expand in Palm Beach County.
Through collaboration with universities, K-12 education leaders, and workforce organizations, the BDB helps position the Palm Beaches as a destination for innovation-driven industries and high-wage careers.
As more technology and advanced companies choose Palm Beach County, partnerships between industry and education will remain critical to preparing the next generation of talent.
Learn more about economic development, industry growth, and career opportunities in Palm Beach County at:
👉 www.bdb.org
