Premier Private Jets Hosts U.S. Secretary of Labor for Major Apprenticeship Investment Announcement in Stuart

Premier Private Jets welcomed U.S. Secretary of Labor Keith Sonderling to its Stuart facility on November 2 for the announcement of nearly $200 million in federal investment aimed at expanding registered apprenticeships and strengthening America’s industrial workforce.

The investment, announced by Secretary Sonderling at Premier’s hangar, will support Pay-for-Performance models designed to expand apprenticeship opportunities and develop the skilled workforce needed across critical American industries. Florida is earmarked to receive $40 million in grant funding, with investments supporting sectors including shipbuilding, maritime, defense, aerospace, aviation and advanced manufacturing.

Secretary Sonderling was joined by representatives from the Florida Department of Commerce, the Florida Department of Education and Congressman Brian Mast for the announcement.

Premier Private Jets CEO Josh Birmingham welcomed the opportunity to host the Secretary and highlighted the importance of investing in the next generation of skilled American workers.

“Building the next generation of that workforce is something deeply important to us, and it’s an honor to welcome a leader that shares that connection,” said Birmingham.

Secretary Sonderling emphasized Florida’s strategic role in advancing the nation's industrial capabilities and the importance of registered apprenticeships in connecting Americans with career opportunities.

“That’s what we’re helping Florida and helping the United States deliver: a skilled American workforce. There’s no better way to do it than through registered apprenticeships across the country,” said Sonderling. “We are giving over $200 million to invest in registered apprenticeships. In Florida, $40 million of that is going to industries such as shipbuilding, maritime, defense industrial space, aerospace, aviation and advanced manufacturing.”

The Secretary also highlighted Stuart's unique position as a hub for industries that will benefit from the investment.

“I’m so excited to be in Stuart to be able to announce this. There’s no better location. Not only with the maritime industry here, but the aviation industry and the many, many more jobs to come,” said Sonderling.

For Premier Private Jets, hosting the announcement reflects the importance of a strong aviation and industrial workforce to the continued growth of the industry. As the company continues to expand its aviation operations, developing the next generation of skilled professionals remains an important part of the industry's future.