Sophia Watson of the Florida Semiconductor Institute Wins 2025 FLATE Distinguished Manufacturing Partner Service Award

Congratulations to Sophia Watson, a seasoned leader in workforce development, currently driving statewide efforts at the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI)! At FSI, she has implemented a comprehensive strategy to enhance semiconductor workforce readiness, from early education awareness to the creation of new industry certifications. She also facilitates collaboration across industry and education to align efforts and meet the growing demand for skilled workers in advanced manufacturing.

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.

Sharing How Chips are Made with H.S. Students
In her current role at the Florida Semiconductor Institute (FSI), Mrs. Watson plays a pivotal role in coordinating Florida’s manufacturing ecosystem. FSI’s efforts focus on aligning industry, education, and workforce development initiatives to strengthen the state’s readiness for emerging technologies, particularly in the semiconductor sector. The strength of Sophia Watson’s leadership has been in fostering collaboration across institutions, businesses, and organizations, paving the way for a robust, future-ready workforce and a stronger manufacturing sector in Florida and beyond.

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
Other contributions to manufacturing education and career awareness include:
  • SACA Industry Certification Development, 2024
  • FSI Professional Development Day for Educators, 2024
  • Hernando Grown (educational event), 2020 -2023
  • Hernando Workforce Summit, 2014

Watson has developed innovative partnerships with local governments and colleges to create training complexes and improve alignment with workforce needs. Her efforts included the successful management of state appropriations and federal funding initiatives, advancing organizational growth and impact. A proven collaborator and strategic thinker, Watson has expanded industry certifications, enhanced marketing efforts to raise program visibility, and contributed to economic development through key leadership roles on advisory boards. Watson continues to champion efforts that strengthen workforce pipelines, foster economic growth, prepare communities for the future and position Florida as a leader in advanced technologies.

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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