Empowering Miami’s Future Through Workforce Development
September, 2026
“Preparing young people for the future takes more than education, it takes exposure, opportunity, mentorship, and real connections starting at a young age. When educators, employers, nonprofits, and community leaders come together, we can create meaningful pathways for Miami’s next generation.”
Ian Welsch, Founder/ CEO
National Workforce Development Day brought together community leaders, local entrepreneurs, and changemakers at The Edge (The Motivational Edge) for an inspiring Lunch & Learn focused on the state of workforce development in Miami. Moderated by our Board Chair, Adriana Oliva, with the purpose of driving meaningful dialogue, the panel featured prominent voices including Gizelle Ortiz-Velazquez from United Way Miami’s Upskill Miami, Caroline Miller from The Miami Foundation, and Yian Perez from CareerSource South Florida. Together, these organizations examined how targeted Miami-Dade job training and strategic investment can fortify our local economy while expanding sustainable career opportunities in South Florida for youth, underrepresented communities, and working families.
Throughout the panel discussion, experts delved into the dual challenges of bridging both skills and access gaps across the region. While technical training remains essential, key barriers such as transportation, economic hardship, and program awareness often hinder individuals from accessing career advancement pathways. Panelists emphasized the importance of upskilling initiatives by equipping the future workforce with access to resources alongside practical training, local organizations can ensure job seekers remain competitive in an evolving labor market.
Achieving long-term workforce development success requires actionable, cross-sector community partnerships that connect nonprofits, educational institutions, and employers. From providing essential small business support to securing sustainable funding and capacity-building resources, local leaders highlighted the vital role that collaborative ecosystems play in reducing employee turnover and driving economic mobility. By fostering continuous engagement and shared advocacy, Miami-Dade can build an inclusive, thriving workforce equipped to build a stronger financial future for all residents.
Thank you to S&S Global for sponsoring the lunch, Strive 305 for being a community partner, our guest panelists, and everyone who joined us.
The Motivational Edge
Facebook: www.facebook.com/motivationaledge
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/the-motivational-edge-inc
Instagram: www.instagram.com/motivationaledge
Website: themotivationaledge.org
The Miami Foundation
Facebook: www.facebook.com/themiamifoundation
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lonnie-cox-3376b24a
Instagram: www.instagram.com/miamifoundation
X: twitter.com/miamifoundation
Website: www.miamifoundation.org
CareerSource South Florida
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CareerSourceFlorida LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/careersourceflorida
Instagram: www.instagram.com/careersourceflorida
X: twitter.com/careersourcefl
Website: careersourceflorida.com
United Way Miami
Facebook: www.facebook.com/UnitedWayMiami
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/unitedwaymiami
Instagram: www.instagram.com/unitedwaymiami
YouTube: www.youtube.com/channel/UCAduhxNrjm3-fnv9L5BE6hw
Website: unitedwaymiami.org