When Keidrian Kunkel stepped into the CEO role at CareerSource Tampa Bay, she inherited more than an organization. She took responsibility for shaping the region\u2019s workforce at a moment of extraordinary growth.<\/p>\n
Nearly one year later, she has unified two major counties, expanded employer partnerships and built a more connected talent system. As she approaches her first anniversary in January 2026, Kunkel has positioned CareerSource Tampa Bay as a model for workforce innovation and regional collaboration.<\/p>\n
A region growing faster than its talent supply<\/p>\n
Tampa Bay\u2019s economy continues to outpace its available workforce. Employers across health care, technology and advanced manufacturing face persistent shortages. Many residents still struggle to find stable careers that align with their skills.<\/p>\n
For decades, Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties ran separate workforce programs. Each operated with its own board, budget and priorities. That structure limited collaboration and often duplicated services.<\/p>\n
The decision to unify under CareerSource Tampa Bay created a rare opportunity to rebuild the system from the ground up. Kunkel\u2019s appointment marked the start of that transformation.<\/p>\n
How Kunkel is rebuilding the workforce system<\/p>\n
Kunkel\u2019s strategy centers on three pillars: collaboration, data and equity.<\/p>\n
Collaboration
She is bringing employers, educators and public agencies into one coordinated system. That alignment allows the region to respond faster to changing labor needs and to create shared solutions instead of siloed ones.<\/p>\n
Data
CareerSource is using real-time labor intelligence to identify skill gaps and design targeted training programs. Data also helps employers understand where their pipelines are breaking down.<\/p>\n
Equity
Kunkel is expanding access for veterans, youth and underserved communities. Her priority is making sure opportunity reaches every ZIP code.<\/p>\n
These efforts have already produced visible results. CareerSource launched new sector partnerships in health care, IT and logistics, giving employers direct influence over training design and hiring pathways.<\/p>\n
Why this shift matters for Tampa Bay\u2019s economy<\/p>\n
Kunkel\u2019s approach reframes workforce development as an engine of economic growth \u2014 not an afterthought. Tampa Bay\u2019s ability to compete nationally depends not only on attracting companies but also on preparing and retaining the talent they need.<\/p>\n
By integrating two counties into one system, CareerSource now offers:<\/p>\n
A single point of contact for employers<\/p>\n
Streamlined recruitment and hiring support<\/p>\n
Clearer career pathways for job seekers<\/p>\n
Less duplication and more regional impact<\/p>\n
The result is a stronger, more efficient workforce ecosystem that benefits businesses and residents across Tampa Bay.<\/p>\n
How business leaders can support workforce innovation<\/p>\n
Kunkel\u2019s message to employers is clear: partnership drives progress.<\/p>\n
Companies that engage early with CareerSource can help shape training programs, access funding, host apprenticeships and participate in pilot initiatives that test new hiring models.<\/p>\n
The more employers participate, the more resilient the region becomes.<\/p>\n
What\u2019s next for CareerSource Tampa Bay<\/p>\n
Kunkel plans to deepen the organization\u2019s capacity for innovation in 2026. Upcoming initiatives include:<\/p>\n
An Integrated Business Services Team to unite partners and leaders around shared strategies<\/p>\n
Expanded employer advisory groups to design industry-specific solutions<\/p>\n
New efforts to close opportunity gaps across both counties<\/p>\n
A recent Lightcast report named Tampa Bay one of the nation\u2019s strongest regions for talent retention. Kunkel wants to build on that momentum.<\/p>\n
\u201cI want to explore how we can make sure we are intentionally fostering a regional ecosystem that encourages talent to stay in Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
For companies or community partners looking to get involved, visit CareerSourceTampaBay.com<\/a> or listen to Keidrian\u2019s latest podcast<\/a> about her first year as President and CEO.<\/p>\n This article was written by Keidrian Kunkel, CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay.<\/p>\n Stay Connected<\/p>\n Sign up for TBBW\u2019s newsletter<\/a><\/p>\n Watch TBBW\u2019s Podcast<\/a><\/p>\n