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PORT ST. LUCIE, Fla., March 9, 2020 – This week, New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster and CareerSource Research Coast (CSRC) announced a new Distribution and Logistics Technician Registered Apprenticeship program to expand career opportunities in distribution and logistics for new and existing employees at New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster’s 20,000-square-foot seafood processing facility in Stuart, Florida.

During the 12-month work-based training program, apprentices will earn $15 to $18 per hour to start and complete 80 hours of related technical instruction (RTI) and two thousand hours of on-the-job (OJT) training. The RTI and OJT both address core technical competency needs for higher-skilled, higher-wage positions in logistics. These include but are not limited to communication best practices, customer relations, customs processes, dispatch operations, quality control, handling of hazardous material, inventory control, order processing, stocking, shipping, receiving, supply chain logistics and teamwork.

Upon completion, participants will receive their Certified Logistics Associate (CLA) and Certified Logistics Technician (CLT) certifications. Both certifications are nationally recognized and portable and help provide advancement opportunities for those who successfully complete the program.

“This new apprenticeship opportunity and partnership is another wonderful example of the collaboration between the CareerSource Florida network and private business to provide opportunities to build the talent pipeline for Florida.  Locally, CareerSource Research Coast is proud to assist New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster in training a qualified and skilled workforce,” said CareerSource Research CEO Brian Bauer.

The announcement comes on the heels of a recent push by Governor Ron DeSantis to advance and diversify Florida’s economy through apprenticeships and other workforce training opportunities. Apprenticeships play and important role in not only building talent pipelines for in-demand careers but also reducing turnover rates, increasing productivity, lowering recruitment costs, and increasing safety in the workplace.

“New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster Inc., is very excited to partner with CareerSource,” said Chris Lick, business operations manager for New England Wholesale. “We feel this is a great opportunity to expand our reach within the community while seeking talented young professionals looking for a skilled trade in our workplace.”

Program applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent and experience with computerized inventory control systems and leading a team. Forklift operator certification is preferred but not required. Interested candidates may contact Susan Haggard at shaggard@careersourcerc.com.

Distribution and Logistics Registered Apprenticeship program has been approved for VA education benefits. Veterans who qualify for the GI Bill, Vocational Rehabilitation and Employment (VR&E) services or other educational assistance programs through the Department of Veterans Affairs are encouraged to apply.

For program funding details in compliance with the Stevens Amendment, please visit www.careersourcerc.com/program-funding.

About CareerSource Research Coast

CareerSource Research Coast (CSRC) is a private, non-profit, Florida corporation with a board of directors consisting of private businesses, economic development and education representatives, community and state agencies, and elected officials. Members of the board represent the diversity of businesses, organizations and trades that operate in Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties. The State of Florida chartered CSRC to create and manage a workforce development service delivery system responsive to the needs of businesses and job seekers. Our certified workforce professionals can be reached by calling 1-866-4U2-HIRE or 1-866-482-4473. Visit www.careersourcerc.com to learn more. An equal opportunity employer/program. TTY/TDD use Florida Relay Service 711.

About New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster

New England Wholesale Fish & Lobster is the largest family owned seafood supplier in Florida serving single-chain and large-chain restaurants, country clubs, yachts, direct to the public and more. Offering a wide selection of wholesale seafood and fresh fish, New England Wholesale operates from a 20,000-square-foot seafood processing facility in Stuart, Florida, where it specializes in live lobster and shellfish. Its wholesale team is dedicated to providing the best wholesale seafood delivery experience possible. Visit www.newenglandwholesale.com to learn more.

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Tags: apprenticeship, press release