On Tuesday, Santa Fe College was awarded $3 million from the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to develop a new associate degree in engineering as part of a statewide initiative to expand semiconductor and chip manufacturing industries.

The funds came from more than $28 million awarded to five projects throughout the state. SF’s money is earmarked to design and develop the new associate degree in engineering technology with a specialization in advanced manufacturing, according to Tuesday’s press release from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ office.

“Today’s awards will expand Florida’s manufacturing industry and provide high quality jobs for Floridians,” said DeSantis in the press release. “In Florida, we are laying the groundwork for a strong economic future by investing in growing, high-demand industries that offer high-wage jobs for our residents.”

According to the press release, the awards are part of the workforce development initiative through the Florida Job Growth Grant Fund to support the semiconductor industry throughout the state. The funds will be used to create high-wage and high-demand jobs in Florida.

Florida is rated No. 3 in the country for semiconductor establishments and No. 5 for semiconductor manufacturing jobs.

“Less than two months ago Governor DeSantis called for Job Growth Grant Fund applications to strengthen Florida’s semiconductor manufacturing industry and to enhance its workforce — our partners in economic development and workforce education around the state responded overwhelmingly,” said Secretary of Commerce J. Alex Kelly in the press release. “Today’s awards provide more education options for the learner’s benefit and ensure that crucial industries have qualified and eager candidates interested in working in their field.”

For more information on the Job Growth Grant Fund, click here.