In 2013, as then Supervisor of Technical and Adult Education, Sophia introduced the Certified Production Technician (CPT) course to Hernando Adult Postsecondary Education, providing adult students for the first time with essential skills to enter the manufacturing workforce. In 2015 she and her team collaborated with the Iron Workers Union and local businesses to establish a thriving welding program that served both secondary and postsecondary students, addressing industry needs and expanding career opportunities for students.
She went on to establish Hernando County's first technical college, Wilton Simpson Technical College, with strong support from local businesses, legislators, and the community, launching over 20 new programs and securing over $19 million in external funding. In 2024, a CNC program was added to the newly constructed Wilton Simpson Technical College, equipping students with precision machining skills highly sought after in advanced manufacturing. To maximize resources and expand educational offerings, she negotiated a facility-sharing agreement with the state college, enabling the addition of its Engineering Technology program in the same classroom. This innovative collaboration created a seamless pathway for students pursuing careers in engineering and manufacturing technology.
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Sharing How Chips are Made with H.S. Students |
Sophia’s professional memberships and awards include:
- ACE of Florida, Board member 2021-present
- South Brooksville Tax Redevelopment Advisory Committee, founding member, 2021 - present
- Hernando Economic Development and Aviation Technical Advisory Committee, 2020 – 2024
- Region 16 Workforce Development Board, 2022-2024
- ACE of Florida, President’s Award, 2023
- Greater Hernando Chamber of Commerce, Training Committee member, 2013 - 2021
- SACA Industry Certification Development, 2024
- FSI Professional Development Day for Educators, 2024
- Hernando Grown (educational event), 2020 -2023
- Hernando Workforce Summit, 2014
Manufacturing education plays a huge role in building strong communities and keeping industries competitive. It gives people the hands-on skills needed to succeed in well paying, in demand jobs. For areas with thriving manufacturing sectors these programs create a steady flow of qualified workers, helping local businesses grow and boosting the economy. Manufacturing programs also open doors for students to jump straight into rewarding careers or move up the ladder in their fields. As manufacturing keeps evolving with cutting-edge technologies like automation and semiconductors, education programs ensure workers stay ahead of the curve. It's all about keeping our workforce prepared, our communities thriving, and our industries at the forefront of innovation. – Sophia Watson
Congratulations again to Sophia for her support of manufacturing education and career awareness! For more information on the FLATE Awards visit http://fl-ate.org/programs/flate-awards, or contact Ernie Friend, Executive Director of FLATE, at ernie.friend@flate.org.
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