Tampa GEARs UP to Tackle Mechanic Shortage News General, News Mayor Office The City of Tampa and Hillsborough College (HC) are joining forces to launch GEAR UP, a new workforce[...]

The City of Tampa and Hillsborough College (HC) are joining forces to launch GEAR UP, a new workforce development program designed to build a pipeline of certified, job-ready fleet technicians to meet growing local and national demands.

The GEAR UP program gives participants paid, hands-on experience in the City's Fleet Maintenance Division while they complete their education at HC. The City of Tampa will cover the full cost of program tuition and training for participants while they are employed with the City. The initiative is the first of its kind for the City's Logistics & Asset Management Department and aligns with Mayor Jane Castor's Transforming Tampa's Tomorrow (T3) vision to expand career pathways for residents.

The first three students selected to GEAR UP are Christopher Figuereo, Michael Daniels, and Maurice Daniels. Each are top students in their class, recognized by HC instructors for professionalism, enthusiasm, and potential to contribute to city operations.

"Programs like GEAR UP show what's possible when we invest in people who are already part of our community," said Mayor Jane Castor. "Every great city depends on the people who keep it running, and our fleet technicians are at the heart of that, keeping patrol cars, fire trucks, and service vehicles ready to serve our residents every day."

GEAR UP is being created in response to a growing shortage of qualified automotive technicians across the country and in Florida. The program will help ensure reliable service for the city's essential vehicle fleet while creating a clear pathway into stable, skilled careers for local students.

Media will have the opportunity to learn more about the initiative and interview the students selected for the inaugural GEAR UP program. Media outlets planning to attend are asked to RSVP to [email protected] .