Workforce Development
The plan places heavy emphasis on technical trade development alongside specialized science careers.
Donalds outlined non-tuition training initiatives paired with commercial space firms to train trade workers, alongside plans to expand the Space Florida Academy into secondary education technical programs during his second year in office.
"This is not just an economy for engineers and scientists," said Donalds. "Florida needs our own welders, machinists, electricians and construction crews."
Donalds emphasized that expanding high-wage manufacturing and trade roles within the aerospace sector serves as a direct economic solution for state residents facing rising living costs.
"We talk about affordability so much all across Florida," said Donalds. "One of the things that helps people afford our state is a high paying job."
A core element of the campaign platform involves lobbying the federal government to move NASA headquarters from Washington, D.
C. , to Florida, alongside establishing a dedicated Space Force military training academy within the state.
Funding for the proposals would rely on existing state programs rather than new taxpayer allocations.
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"If all the action is here, then why is NASA sitting in Washington to do what exactly?" said Donalds.
Supporters from the regional aerospace sector noted existing labor shortfalls.
Lynda Weatherman, president and CEO of the Space Coast Economic Development Commission, cited recent research indicating the local region requires approximately 7,000 additional aerospace workers across 12 distinct skill categories.
"Florida is going to lead, and we are going to take the next giant leap right here in the Sunshine State," said Donalds.
