Titusville High School has completed a new partnership with Brevard County's manufacturing sector, offering students hands-on training in advanced manufacturing techniques. The program, launched this month, includes partnerships with three local companies and provides dual-enrollment credits through Eastern Florida State College. Students participating in the initiative will earn certifications in CNC machining and robotics, skills in high demand at firms like SpaceX and Northrop Grumman, which have operations in the area. The program is part of a statewide effort to address workforce shortages in advanced manufacturing and aerospace. School board member Maria Lopez said the initiative responds to feedback from local employers who have expressed concerns about finding qualified workers. 'We’re trying to bridge the gap between classroom learning and what’s needed on the job site,' Lopez said. The program includes a new lab at the high school equipped with industry-standard tools, funded through a $500,000 grant from the Florida Department of Education. Classes began in September, with the first cohort of students expected to complete their certifications by next spring. Local business leaders have praised the move, though some have called for expanded opportunities in other industries like healthcare and IT. 'This is a step in the right direction, but we need more programs like this across the county,' said John Carter, owner of a Titusville-based engineering firm. The school district plans to evaluate the program’s impact after one year and consider expanding it to other high schools in Brevard County.