Insights Into the Skills and Roles in Demand

South Florida’s tech job market is heating up, and employers are scrambling to fill roles in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Hiring managers want more than technical expertise.

They’re seeking problem-solvers who can apply their skills to real-world challenges. Our Coalition discussions and employer feedback confirm the rising demand for AI specialists who turn data into insights, cloud architects who enable agile systems, and cybersecurity experts who protect against persistent threats. To stay ahead, there is a need to build training programs that go beyond theory and provide hands-on experience with the latest tools. By preparing talent for these in-demand tech skills, we strengthen South Florida’s position as a growing hub for innovation and growth.

We’re tackling the skills gap by working with universities, boot camps, and employers to design training that mirrors real industry demands. Together, we’re creating programs that emphasize technical expertise and practical application, ensuring students learn with the same tools and challenges they’ll encounter on the job. These partnerships allow us to continually update curricula with emerging technologies and business needs. By aligning education with employer expectations, we’re building a talent pipeline ready to strengthen South Florida’s tech workforce from day one.

We work closely with colleges, universities, and bootcamp providers to shape training programs that reflect the realities of South Florida’s tech economy. By aligning curricula with employer feedback, we ensure participants gain in-demand skills in areas like cloud computing, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Cloud training, for example, incorporates insights from local startups and scaling companies, giving learners applied knowledge they can use immediately in the workplace. In cybersecurity, we collaborate with academic and industry experts to address the needs of key regional sectors such as banking and healthcare, preparing talent to manage the most pressing threats.

Artificial intelligence is another growing focus of our partnerships. At Miami Tech Works, we launched a pilot program for upskilling and reskilling in AI with Coalition employers and training providers. Miami Dade College led this work by introducing new AI certificates and degrees, creating multiple entry points for learners at different stages of their careers. These efforts ensure that our workforce pipeline keeps pace with evolving technology and gives employers access to talent that can strengthen South Florida’s innovation economy.

Our boot camp pathways provide a fast-entry point for those transitioning into tech, especially individuals from diverse or non-technical backgrounds. In its first year, the initiative trained 675 individuals through universities and boot camps—and notable early results include 315 participants securing tech roles with salaries of $66,000 or more. While specific timelines vary by provider, each program equips learners with skills quickly and prepares them for the job market.

We also extend support beyond the classroom, offering career services and wraparound resources that connect learners to job opportunities and help them navigate the tech landscape. These supports are structured to help remove barriers to entry and guide emerging tech talent into meaningful roles.

South Florida’s tech boom has revealed a mismatch between what employers need and what local talent can deliver, slowing hiring and threatening regional growth. Through coalition discussions, we’ve identified four areas where talent falls short:

At Miami Tech Works, we address these gaps by partnering with universities and industry leaders to design training programs that merge technical knowledge with practical application. Our goal is to strengthen the South Floridatech workforce by producing highly skilled and workplace-ready professionals. When employers and stakeholders engage with us (whether by joining Coalition working group meetings or supporting targeted training), they help shape the future tech talent pipeline. Together, we can ensure South Florida’s tech ecosystem continues to innovate and thrive.

We offer several entry points for companies looking to tap into this growing talent pool. Regular roundtable discussions allow employers to voice their evolving needs directly to training providers. These conversations have led to curriculum adjustments, ensuring that training programs remain relevant in a rapidly changing tech landscape.

Offering internships or apprenticeships to Miami Tech Works program graduates is another powerful way to engage. This opportunity provides companies with access to fresh talent and helps shape the skills and expectations of the next generation of tech professionals in South Florida.