MINUTES OF THE MEETING OF THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA

 

 

September 5, 2007

 

 

 

The Board of County Commissioners of Brevard County, Florida, met in special session on September 5, 2007 at 9:00 a.m. in the Government Center Florida Room, Building C, 2725 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, Florida.  Present were:  Chairperson Jackie Colon, Commissioners Truman Scarborough, Chuck Nelson, Helen Voltz, and Mary Bolin, County Manager Peggy Busacca, and County Attorney Scott Knox.

 

David Dingley, Special Assistant to District 4 Commissioner Mary Bolin, gave the Invocation.

Motion by Commissioner Voltz, seconded by Commissioner Nelson, to approve the use of a 24-foot extension ladder, Hurst spreader (Jaws of Life), rescue dummy/manikin, 50-foot 2.5-inch hose, 50-foot 1.75-inch hose, fog nozzle, high rise pak; and halagon, axe and sledge hammer, for the 343 Challenge on September 11, 2007 in Melbourne.  Motion carried and ordered unanimously.

 

 

Commissioner Scarborough stated on August 22, 2007 there was an excellent forum at the Radisson at the Port; he tried to get Representative Tom Feeney’s and Congressman Dave Weldon’s remarks; the thrust of the comments could be put in the terms as after the second World War, the one resource that both Russia and the United States rushed into get were great minds in space; and today the County will be talking along those terms; and Representative Feeney talked about the danger from China.  He advised the two articles he handed out were in this mornings London Garden; one of them talks about how the Chinese Army is focusing on control of space; Representative Feeney said that he had read from Winston Churchill’s writings that the strength of the Britain was their Navy; and it has moved to air power and it is going to be space.  He noted the theory is one does not have to attack a country if they are totally vulnerable in space; Beijing was able to successfully blast one of its own communication satellites 500 miles above the Earth; there is also another article talking about their knowledge and getting to hack into the Pentagon; and it talks about their closing down a portion of the Pentagon with their recent hacking into the Pentagon.  Commissioner Scarborough stated the idea will be put forward that maybe the issue is not just jobs in Brevard County, but whether it is going to be a viable force in the future or it is going to be relinquished to others; today there is the communication, high technology society; and why should not the warfare advance to the same level; and how does one have national security if they do not have the minds.  He noted Congressman Weldon’s thought  was  if  there  is  this  gap, this hiatus, with getting to the International Space Station, the only way there, is through the Russians;  he  said  they  will  say

REPORT, RE:  FORUM AT RADISSON AT PORT (CONTINUED)

 

they need to renegotiate the Contract  in  a  side  room  off the record; it puts the County vulnerable, the gap specifically, and what it means to have a loss of commitment and this Nation to have the personnel; Bill Parsons said the workforce is our most precious resource; and it is a wonderful location.  He advised the quality and depth of Representative Feeney’s and Congressman Weldon’s thoughts were remarkable; and if some time in the future that either of them can address the Board on the subject, it would be very good for the community to hear their concerns. 

 

 

Dr. David L. Hosley congratulated Dr. Richard DiPatri, the Brevard County Public School System, Dr. Blake and Brevard Community College (BCC), Economic Development Commission (EDC), Workforce Development, and the Legislature; stated the workforce is the most valuable commodity; there are some challenging times ahead if everyone looks at what is happening to this culture and the economy; and there is a study called, “The Perfect Storm”, that was put together by the Educational Testing Service (ETS) that shows some data  economically and statistically as to what is happening to America with the immigration situation, the outsourcing of technology, and what is happening in China and India.  He noted the statistics that are floating around this Country shows that it graduates approximately 70,000 engineers; in China, the numbers range anywhere from 400,000 to 600,000; and in India, it is somewhere around 350,000.  He advised the dropout rates in the schools, Florida is doing a very good job and Brevard County is doing an exceptional job as far as dropout rates; there are some areas in this Country and even in Florida that it is running about 50%; there is one County in the State that is 60+% dropout rate; so career academies are starting, and EDC and the Workforce Development people are involved in that.  Dr. Hosley stated they need the support of not only the school system, but also the industry and professional associations so they can inspire and motivate the young people to encourage them to be prepared to go into the workforce so they can meet the challenges economically and culturally coming to the future.

 

 

Chairperson Colon recognized State Representative Thad Altman.

 

State Representative Thad Altman expressed appreciation to the Board for its leadership and trying to get ahead of this issue and potential problem with the loss of jobs on the Space Coast; stated it is a scary time; those people that have been here long enough to remember what it was like between the Saturn and the Apollo, and the Shuttle Program, know the impacts; the unemployment rate was over 14%; and aerospace engineers were pumping gas, if they were lucky to get that job.  He advised everyone needs to learn from those mistakes of the past; the County needs to keep its workforce ready and trained if it wants to excel in space; it needs to work very closely with its Congressional Delegation and United States Senators; and Congressman  Dave  Weldon is working for some appropriations and dollars to go toward space

 

 

workers to keep the workforce intact.  He stated ultimately the most important thing that can happen is to have the federal appropriators continue to support the Space Program; that does not relieve Brevard County from its duty to be competitive in the economic development field; it needs to work with Space Florida and local economic development agencies to insure that it can keep the NASA facilities and facilities at Cape Kennedy Air Force Station accessible as possible to provide that launch facility and be competitive globally in the commercial launch market; and it needs to work hard in Florida to insure it has the best education system as possible.  Representative Altman stated he has met with NASA officials and they tell him the two most important things to keeping NASA employees and bringing NASA Programs to a community is infrastructure and education; he Chairs the Education Innovation and Career Prep Committee in the House; one of its top priorities is expanding programs for those very bright and talented students, those high academic achievers, and those gifted students that are so critical for these high technology jobs and the aerospace industry; and the Committee has finally received approval and appropriation for a Governor School for Space Science and Technology located either in or near Kennedy Space Center.  He stated the Committee hopes to make this a world class educational experience for the brightest and best students in Brevard County and Statewide; in the long term, the favorable experience they will have, some of the students will be directors of KSC or presidents of aerospace industries; and they will choose to bring those jobs here.  He advised there are also some real challenges financially, they will be in Tallahassee looking at some budget cuts; they have constantly said that they will not compromise the education system; and it is the future.  He commended the Board for bringing awareness to this issue;  stated he is looking forward to working with it in the future; Florida needs to make its voice heard; and it needs to get the commitments from the Presidential Candidates on space.

 

Discussion ensued concerning space exploration, developing strategic partnerships with other States, commercial launch programs, leadership, Space Coast, NASA, a Coalition of the entire State of Florida, Space Summit, and National Space Program.

 

 

Robert Armstrong, Deputy Manager for Project Integration, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center, (By Phone), stated his Office is tasked with building the Nation’s next generation and space launch vehicle; his particular role is in the education and outreach area; the workforce is the most important asset for NASA and the Country; and education is everything.  He advised recent surveys show that the United States population, in general, supports NASA, which is a great thing; today’s journey includes why, when, how, and why education is important; why explore includes inspiration and inspiring students to study the hard subjects and reach for greater goals; innovation provides opportunities to develop new technologies; and discovery includes discovering new information about the universe that teaches about and improves life on Earth.  He explained NASA’s exploration roadmap and NASA explores for answers that power our future; advised NASA powers inspiration that encourages future generations to explore, learn, and build a better future; NASA relies on a well-educated U.S. workforce to carry out missions of scientific discovery that improve life on Earth; and America’s technological edge is  diminishing.  He  stated  there  are  fewer  engineering  graduates  from   U.S.  colleges   and

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

universities, and more engineering and science graduates in other countries; global marketplace is increasingly competitive and technology-driven; students need motivating goals and teachers with information to share; and NASA continues to develop educational tools and experiences that inspire, educate, and motivate.  Mr. Armstrong advised the classroom experiences include Engineering is Elementary Project (EiE), which is grade-appropriate lessons that introduce and teach engineering principles early on; Courage to Soar is science, math, and other lessons related to aviation and aerospace; Courage to Soar Higher build on aviation knowledge, introducing students to aeronautics and rocketry; and Thermal Protection Systems (TPS) Engineering Design Challenge includes learning how NASA engineers design light, effective thermal protection systems, and students experiment with building their own TPS.  He stated Spacecraft Structures Engineering Design Challenge includes designing and building a strong, lightweight thrust structure to withstand a bottle rocket’s thrust; refining the design through a regular design process; and recording and reporting on their findings.  He advised Ares Rocket Guide is where students learn how rockets work, history of rocketry, and working with variables that affect rocket performance; it includes video and/or audio clips taken from interviews with engineers working on Ares; Hands-On Educational Activities includes Team America Rocket Challenge (TARC); and there is a Nationwide rocket contest for students in Grades 7 through 12.  He stated the top 25 teams at the TARC can qualify to participate in the Student Launch Initiative; Student Launch Initiative (SLI) is to design, build, and test reusable rockets with associated scientific payloads; Great Moonbuggy Race includes designing a human-powered vehicle that carries two students over lunar terrain; and Other Learning and Outreach Opportunities include Ares Classroom, CD’s with educational content and Internet links, online content through NASA.gov, interactive “rocket builder” exhibit, and interactive voyage to the Moon.

 

Dr. Richard DiPatri, Superintendent of Brevard Public Schools, commended the Board for putting the group together and having the foresight to do so; and touched on four points:  (1)  The need to excite students about math and science education; (2) the need for vocational training for new skills with the next generation of space vehicles; (3) the importance of quality K-12 schools to attract new industry; and (4) recruiting displaced/retired workers with math/science degrees for positions in school systems.  He stated Brevard Public Schools can do whatever the Board wants it to do and whatever it can do in partnership with Brevard Community College, Florida Institute of Technology (FIT), and the County Commission; every one of Brevard County’s fourth graders, in cooperation with the Brevard Zoo, goes to the Lagoon and studies the Lagoon environment; six graders go to Space Week and visit Kennedy Space Center for one full day; and they spend weeks in advance studying about space and Kennedy Space Center.  He noted after they complete their work, they get four tickets to take their family back to KSC free of charge; every 7^th Grader goes on a Simulated Space Mission called Project BLAST at the Visitor Complex; and a new project has been instituted this year, which will expand to all 8^th Graders, and is called Project SEINE, which is an action research project on the Indian River.  He stated they will be taking data and entering it with Sea World Hubbs and others, actual live research, and continuing that research into high school; Brevard County is above anyone else in science and math; there were 17 winners last year at the Orlando Science Center; and Best of Show, Brevard County won 13 of them out of eight Counties.  He advised last year Brevard County had eight first place winners at the State Science Fair; the School Board  invested  $20  million, and  it  is  in  the  process  of  renovating  

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

every  secondary school science lab; and they are going to have state-of-the-art science labs in every single one of its 27 secondary schools.

Dr. DiPatri advised Brevard Public Schools is heavily engaged in Secondary Schools of National Prominence Issue; it has increased the credit requirements necessary to graduate from high school from 24 to 26; the School Board invested $9 million in moving from a six-period day to a seven-period day in every high school; and it spent $4 million last year in increasing the number of guidance counselors to help students.  He stated Brevard County, with the help of Brevard Community College, is first in the State in dual enrollment; Brevard Public Schools has nine Career Academies in the Planning Phase, eight Career Academies in the Implementation Phase, and four Career Academies in the Operational Phase; in Brevard County there were four “A” high schools in 2006; and this year there were 11 “A” high schools out of 15.  He advised Brevard County has nine of the 43 licensed high school robotics teams; and next year there will be ten.  He stated Brevard Public Schools wants to work with the County Commission, whether it is an academy or workforce issues related to people who might be disengaged at Kennedy Space Center; he commends the County Commission; what it is doing is the right thing to do; and Brevard Public Schools is more than willing to do anything it can to help the County Commission achieve what is maintaining a workforce.

 

Chairperson Colon commended Dr. DiPatri and the teachers of Brevard County; and stated she is so proud of Brevard County, the teachers, the administration, and Dr. DiPatri’s and the School Board’s leadership.

 

Commissioner Nelson stated the County Commission is proud of the job that the school system has done and what Dr. DiPatri has done with the school system.

 

Dr. Jim Drake, Brevard Community College/SpaceTEC, expressed appreciation to the Board for allowing BCC/SpaceTEC another opportunity to share with it what BCC is doing in response, not to crisis, but to opportunities for a greater span of economic development through aerospace; stated nearly a half a century ago, the Board’s predecessors, principally Commissioners Max Rhodes, Joe Wickham, and Dave Nisbett, put together the infrastructure that made possible the massive expansion of the economy of Brevard County during the first days of aerospace; advised of the partnerships that grew out of Brevard County; and the SpaceTEC Program is now an anchor point for economic development.  He advised the presentations are coordinated through Workforce Development because it becomes the hub of all of the activities as they meet the newest and latest challenges in the chapter of aerospace evolvement in Brevard County.

 

Chairperson Colon expressed appreciation to Dr. Drake for his leadership and everything he has contributed to the community throughout the years.

 

Frank Margiotta, Executive Director of Brevard Community College/SpaceTec, stated two specific aerospace-related activities that BCC is involved with are the Local Aerospace Technology Program and SpaceTec, which is a National Science Foundation Funded Center based at Kennedy Space Center, which is led by Brevard Community College; and the challenges are the workforce transition that is requiring new skills, limited career ladders or paths to alternate jobs, aging technical workforce, declining numbers of technician candidates, and  increasing  global  competitiveness.  He  advised  the Aerospace Technology Program is a

 

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

70-hour Associative Science or Associative Applied Science Degree Program; BCC is entering its seventh year of operation; it is a full-time Program; the students enter as a cohort group; there are non-traditional classes; and advised of the Aerospace Program sites, including the BCC Cocoa Campus, Building 14; Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Building 60505; and Space Launch Complex 47, which is owned by the Air Force.  He stated the Aerospace Technology Advisory Committee (ATAC) is comprised of approximately 40 representatives from various organizations; advised of the courses in the Aerospace Technology Degree Program; to date, there have been 154 students in the Program since its inception; and 84 students have graduated.  He advised 63 of the students are employed in the aerospace industry, including NASA, Rocketdyne, Wyle Labs, Harris, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, CSR, USA; currently there are four active semesters; BCC also offers some aerospace specific non-credit training; and it has two initiatives, one funded by Workforce Florida and the other by the Florida High Tech Corridor Council.  He stated such training includes introduction to composites, composites inspection and repair, introduction to non-destructive testing, J-Standard soldering, introduction to fiber optics, SpaceTEC Certified Aerospace Technician, and vehicle processing concentration; SpaceTEC is a National Science Foundation National Center of Excellence; it was established in 2002 with funding from the National Science Foundation; it is headquartered at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station; and currently it consists of a Consortium of 11 Community College and University Partners, eight States. 

 

Mr. Margiotta advised the goals of the Program are to:  (1) Promote recruitment and outreach; (2) strengthen degree programs; (3) expand the National Certification Program; (4) Center sustainability; (5) faculty professional development; and (6) technician professional development.  He showed a map depicting the partner locations; advised the partners are located in areas around the Country where aerospace activities are prevalent, primarily adjacent to NASA or DOD installations; however, there are a couple of partners who are heavily involved in the aviation industry.  He inquired the reasons for SpaceTEC Certification are because it is a nationally recognized credential for aerospace technicians; provides an objective performance index; encourages professional development beyond current job; reduces time required to earn degree; strengthens industry-based performance standards, and reduces the need for regulatory oversight; and improves worker transportability and workforce qualifications.  He advised it is a three-part exam, written (computer-based, screening, proctored), oral (administered by certified examiners), and practical (hands-on, standardized exercises); and multiple elements include Universal Core – Introduction to the Workplace, Safety, Applied Mechanics, Basic Electricity, Materials and Processes, and Tests and Measurements; and Concentrations – Aerospace Manufacturing, Vehicle Processing, and Composites.  He stated the prerequisites to take the certification exam are a minimum two-year degree in aerospace technology or related discipline from accredited institution, or a minimum of two years direct aerospace work experience (military or industry), or an FAA Airframe and Power Plant Certificate.

 

Mr. Margiotta advised current and future initiatives are the core exam; 460-plus exams have been administered and 180-plus certificates have been issued; there is a 16-hour Certification Readiness Course, which is hybrid distance learning with support from CCAF; the American Council on Education conducted an extensive review of the Program; and as a result of that, it makes the recommendation for 24 college credits that an institution has the discretion to award up  to  24  college credits for an individual who possesses that Certificate to be applied toward a

 

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

technical degree or other appropriate degree; and it is key for what is being looked at in the future.  He stated the concentrations include vehicle processing, manufacturing, and composites; there is an approved tuition reimbursement program by several Department of Defense organizations, such as Navy COOL, Montgomery GI Bill, and DANTES; and the written part of the exam can be used as a workforce assessment.  He advised endorsements and recognitions include the United States Air Force, The Boeing Company, Lockheed Martin, and Federal Aviation Administration Commercial Space Transportation; and shared technical skills consists of aerospace electrical, aerospace manufacturing, space vehicle maintenance, aerospace technologies, aerospace processing, space vehicle systems, quality; SpaceTEC Core, Introduction to the Workplace, Materials/Processes, Applied Mechanics, Safety, Electrical, Tests/Measurements, and General Education; telecommunication, electronics, aviation, engineering technology, metrology, geospatial systems, computers/IT; applied technologies, material science, and biomedical and life sciences.  Mr. Margiotta stated BCC/SpaceTEC looks forward to being part of the solution here; and it is excited about the challenges.

 

Dr. Jim Drake recognized and expressed appreciation to Lee Solid and Marshall Heard.

 

Lisa Rice, Executive Director of Brevard Workforce Development Board, stated regarding the need for aerospace initiative, by 2012, estimated job losses are anywhere between 3,500 and 10,000; critical training components for the Orion/Constellation programs need to occur before 2009 for a smaller number of workers; the remaining workforce needs to be training today for their career of the future; and keeping the workforce stable for the remaining Shuttle launches is paramount to aerospace success.  She advised economic development efforts need to use the skills of the workforce to recruit and expand businesses to the State; and there needs to be a powerful, concerted effort to obtain funds necessary for this transition.  She stated the Brevard Workforce Development Board Workforce Study Snapshot Information includes approximately 9,235 Shuttle-related employees in Florida, and 6,340 employees with USA; there are 2,895 employees with sub-tier and related support contractors; other possible work projects (COTS, CLV/CaLV, Upper Stage) reduces the impact; and normal attrition and retirement reduces the impact.  She noted an estimated one-third of the workforce, between 2,500 and 3,500 will be without a job in 2012; another one-third of the workforce will be employed, but need skills upgrades to transition to new aerospace jobs; the Brevard Workforce Development Board workforce efforts underway are Lockheed Martin Employed Worker Training, which includes local formula funds, grant funds, and employer driven; and Space Gateway support, which includes an initial meeting this week.

 

Gary Collins, Lockheed Martin Training Manager for the production of Orion, advised Lockheed Martin is moving into the ONC Building and working with a Space Florida Grant of $35 million to renovate the old facility that was used to build Apollo; that is where it plans on putting together the simulated integration production of the new CEV; it is trying to build a factory of the future; it is trying to do it smart; and it starts with the skills analysis.

 

Ms. Rice stated the aerospace initiative stakeholders include the Brevard Workforce Development Board, Economic Development Commission, Brevard County Commissioners, Brevard Legislative Delegation – State and Federal, State of Florida – Governor, WFI, EFI, and Space  Florida, Industry – Lockheed Martin to Dynamac Corporation, Labor Unions, Educational

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

Institutions – BCC, FL Tech, UCF, Embry, Supply Chain – Zephyrhills to Tejas Office Products, local businesses, and federal agencies – NASA and PAFB.  She advised the aerospace initiative – components include the Aerospace Career Development Council, E3 approach, collective voice, and quick response; the purpose of the Aerospace Career Development Council is to use existing and developing information to establish a transition plan; unite economic development, employment and education in implementation of a plan; and present a united voice for funding and public policy requests, with a Statewide perspective.  She stated all of the identified stakeholders are involved, the community at large is involved, and Brevard Workforce Development Board as the lead entity are involved.  Ms. Rice stated the Aerospace Career Development Council Workforce Component includes a workforce study – snapshot, additional work on the supply chain in October, educational analysis of skills for the Orion Program, analysis of skills crosswalks the end of November, and initial local and grant funding – career/tuition funds.  She noted the next steps are to lead the Aerospace Career Development Council, implement current funding in employed worker training efforts (Lockheed Martin, SGS), establish a Space Act Agreement with NASA, and to lead funding and public policy requests through the Aerospace Career Development Council.

 

Ms. Rice advised the Aerospace Career Development Council Economic Development Component’s next steps are to participate in the Aerospace Career Development Council, and participate in funding and public policy requests through the Council.  She stated the Aerospace Career Development Council Education Component’s next steps are to participate in the Aerospace Career Development Council; develop curriculum analysis, agreements, and delivery systems in a collaborative manner; and participate in funding and public policy requests through the Council.  She noted the Aerospace Career Development Council needs a combined voice of stakeholders; Legislative champions – State and Federal; and advocacy and support of the Governor’s Office.  She advised what it will take is a stakeholder agreement on the Council’s role and responsibilities of each member; and obtaining funding and public policy support at State and Federal levels.  She stated the Council’s initial concept pieces include a workforce study – snapshot, updated yearly; crosswalk information, updated yearly; economic development incentives for businesses relocation, expansion, project work; and EWT for Orion/Constellation identified workers.  She advised other initial concept pieces are assessments and outreach to the rest of the workers; E3 Agreements – employer, employee, employer; and training – Banner Center concept with educational institutions.

 

Ms. Rice stated Aerospace Initiative, Timing, Key Dates, and Milestones include a September 2007 workshop and forum, with Brevard Workforce Development Board participation to present a plan of action and initial concept pieces; September 2007 is the initial Aerospace Career Development Council meeting; September 2007 are the Legislative meetings; and September 2007 is the WFI/AWI budget request.  She advised there will be a meeting with the Governor and Lieutenant Governor in September or October 2007; October 2007 will be federal budget request(s); there will be a Legislative Session meeting in March 2008; and July 1, 2008 or October 1, 2008 will be first year funds.

 

 

Motion by Commissioner Scarborough, seconded by Commissioner Voltz, to appoint Commissioner Helen Voltz as the Board’s designee on the Aerospace Career Development Council.  Motion carried and ordered unanimously.

 

The meeting recessed at 11:30 a.m. and reconvened at 11:50 a.m.

Deputy County Attorney Shannon Wilson’s presence was noted at this time, and Attorney Knox’s absence was noted.

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

Lynda Weatherman, President/CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida’s Space Coast, advised the EDC has spoke in past workshops about its endeavors and strategic plans; this is a meeting about workforce, but this is on top of many other discussions that have taken place in the past; when the Board identified with the EDC coming to the table, it recognizes a problem coming up the road, it needs to do something about it, and it needs to take responsibility and start making a plan of action now; and in that case, it is identifying the Shuttle/Constellation, the gap in the workforce, and the change and paradigm shift in the opportunities and challenges there.  She stated one of the first things the EDC identified was to bring here some work related to the new Constellation; EDC is able to identify that as a project and work with the State; it was successful; what is significant and interesting is that in 50 years of history of the space industry, it has never assembled launch vehicles of any type; that was a paradigm shift; and it has made the case, not just to the United States, but to the world that it can bring assembly work here.  She advised Brevard County wants to encourage Lockheed Martin and continue working with it; the County is ready to come to the table because it wants more work to come here; the County Commission supported the EDC; the EDC was very much involved in it; and the State came to the table with the Legislators.  She noted Representative Thad Altman came to the table and brought together prior to the session beginning, a commitment of $35 million; it worked; strategies are good; and the snapshot needs to be addressed. 

 

Ms. Weatherman stated the question is, what are we going to do today that gets us to the strategic plans of tomorrow or the challenges of tomorrow; the best way to look at a relationship between the EDC’s efforts and workforce efforts is a supply and demand way of looking at it; they work on the demand side and the companies that will be making demand of the supply side of labor; and the workforce transition is critical.  She advised if this is done correctly and properly, the workforce number will be an economic development competitive advantage for Brevard County; it is a moving target; there was a survey done approximately eight years ago of 350 CEO’s; they indicated their number one factor for relocating was the availability of a qualified workforce; and that is what Brevard County has, but it can make it even more sharp and more clear to the demands of tomorrow.  She commented on the Aerospace Career Development Council and the significance of it; and advised such Council is critical for Brevard County.  She stated economic development and workforce development are critical.

 

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

Discussion ensued regarding fiscal challenges, SpaceTEC Programs, competition, common theme, NASA funding, The Space Foundation, Space Florida, partnerships, crosswalk analysis of skills, labor market researchers, workforce areas, general surveys, education, teaching, and entrepreneurial activities.

 

Chairperson Colon stated the surveys can include what can Brevard County do for you; these are very highly educated folks; they do not want to leave Brevard County because their children are here and they planted roots; and this is where they wanted to retire.  She noted the County needs to use the media; Brevard County’s first step is letting the community know it has a plan and wants to make sure the citizens stay here; it is going to be critical to make sure that the media is part of that message and getting it out there; not everybody watches Space Coast Government Television; and those tools need to be utilized.  She advised Brevard County cares; and it is going to do everything within its power to make sure that the citizens stay here.

 

Edward Ellegood, Space Policy Analyst/Director of Aerospace Development, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, provided a background to the Board regarding the University; advised that the University is a world leader in aerospace higher education; it is well known worldwide as an Aerospace University; and it rates in the United States News and World Report Study annually as the top Aerospace Engineering University.  He stated the University has residential campuses in Daytona and Arizona, and more than 130 worldwide campuses; there are 35 degree programs; and it has a highly focused student body.  He advised Brevard County is home to multiple Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Programs, such as Space Coast Worldwide Campus, with the location based at Patrick Air Force Base; classes are taught at Patrick Air Force Base, Kennedy Space Center, Sarno Road, and industry locations; there is an office at CCAFS with SpaceTEC; there are extensive on-line degree offerings; and there is also management of Florida Space Research Institute-developed advanced learning environment.  He stated growth opportunities are aviation/space convergence, such as Shuttle Landing Facility conversion, Spaceport/range technologies, space tourism/space plane operations, and microgravity education and research center; SpaceTEC articulation agreements, WFI Banner Center collaboration, industry training partnerships, and high school Aerospace Institute expansion.

 

Chairperson Colon expressed appreciation to Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University for its partnership with Brevard County.

 

Frank Kinney, Vice Provost for Research, Florida Institute of Technology, commended the County Commission on giving this issue such attention; stated it is refreshing to see the Commission provide this kind of leadership; the Space Program is going to take off and do incredible things; but there is a gap issue between the time the Shuttle will be flying its last flight until the time it gets a replacement craft; and Brevard County needs to make sure it retains as much of that talent here as possible so that when things do begin to take off again that it will be able to recapture that talent in the Space Program and take advantage of it.  He advised Florida Institute of Technology was established almost 50 years ago; it continues to have some very strong ties to the Space Program; there have been numerous transformations on the Campus; and  there is $63 million in construction that is taking place on Campus, which will be completed

 

 

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

next year or year and a half.  He stated there is a lot of capacity being built at Florida Tech; FIT has approximately 36 Contracts in place right now with NASA in the area of research; there are approximately 400+ alumni from FIT working right now at Kennedy Space Center; and FIT has had a major impact already.  He commented on space education and engineering, science education, and math education; stated it is important for Brevard County to make sure it takes full advantage of what NASA can bring to the table; currently FIT offers programs at Kennedy Space Center, including space systems, computer information systems, and software engineering; and an MBA is also offered at Kennedy Space Center. 

 

Mr. Kinney advised FIT offers 25 degree and certificate on-line programs through its graduate and under graduate programs; it is making a major push in the area of on-line education; that area certainly could play a key role and a major tool in addressing some of the training issues that will be coming along; and training is going to be very critical.  He stated FIT is continuing to grow; the enrollment is now over 5,000; and Articulation Agreements include Brevard Community College, Indian River Community College, Valencia Community College, and Dade Community College.  He noted FIT does a lot in the area of tuition and scholarships; one of the most important linkages FIT has is its Board of Trustees; FIT offers counseling services and career services to potential students; one of the schools it has at FIT is School of Psychology and Liberal Arts; there is a career counseling service that is offered through that Program; and it could offer that to individuals at Kennedy Space Center who might be interested in pursuing a career at FIT or some sort of degree at FIT.  He advised FIT is a private institution; it has a lot of flexibility that it can take advantage of in addressing this; it is going to be important; Brevard County is blessed with having a lot of very unique resources that no one else has; and there are so many pieces to the puzzle, and it can be a great asset.  He noted it can be a liability at times because there are so many players; if everyone works together they can do incredible things; the framework and the planning that has been put together by the Brevard Workforce Group is a step in the right direction as far as pulling some of those major players together; it is going to boil down to finding money; and Tallahassee and Washington are going to be very important.  He stated Brevard County is going to have to put together a very aggressive political agenda for this and a very aggressive political approach because timing is of the essence; it is very important to act now; and today is an important step in that direction.

 

Dale Ketcham, Director, University of Central Florida, Spaceport Research and Technology Institute, stated he is proud to be a Brevardian because of the leadership of the County Commission, in particular, in helping to address a problem everyone knows is coming, actively getting involved, and trying to get the stakeholders together; and expressed appreciation to the Board for helping provide the leadership to get it done.  He noted Brevard County is doing a lot, but it is not done; it has a lot to do; between the three Universities, two private and the University of Central Florida, they are going to be able to meet Brevard County’s needs and work with it to address the workforce transformation issues, and deal with those; he believes the Board can be comfortable that the backbone, the infrastructure, the incentive, and the expertise is here with the Universities to help Brevard County get where it needs to go; and UCF is the sixth largest University in the entire Country.  He noted such University is used to cranking out people for high-tech businesses; it is the largest provider of graduates to Lockheed Martin Corporation  and  the  entire Nation; it can help the County meet its needs, and working together

 

 

 

SPACE INDUSTRY UPDATE, RE:  WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT (CONTINUED)

 

with the private sector colleagues; and UCF is taking its strength in simulation and training, and working with the Lockheed Martin people who are preparing to do the assembly, processing, and checkout of Orion, to take those skill sets over at UCF for simulation to help match them with the new needs, having brought new technologies, requirements, and processing here to KSC.  He stated there is a lot of synergy going on; the high-tech institutions that are available to this community are going to be more than capable of working with Brevard County to meet the needs; universities’ primary responsibility is providing education; and another component is research.  He noted research is not the answer to 5,000 job losses in Brevard County, but it ought to be part of the answer; there are opportunities out there that the County can pursue; a couple of individuals are involved in working directly with some of the political campaigns to target the issue of Presidential candidates having an interest in the Space Program; and Florida has a unique advantage.  He stated he believes the politics are evolving where it is going to become Florida’s time; Florida is a State where the people compete; Governor Charlie Crists’ Office has been immensely helpful; Florida is actually getting support from everybody it wants; and on the Presidential Campaign, that is going to have to mature in its own time because they work to a bigger agenda. 

 

Mr. Ketcham stated Brevard County is making lots of progress; the County Commission is taking the lead on this and is doing a good job; a lot of work still needs to be done; the academic institutions that the County has available to it are going to be able to meet its needs; and they look forward to working with Brevard County.

 

Chairperson Colon stated Brevard County underestimates how powerful it is as a voting block.  Commissioner Scarborough stated it sounds like Brevard County needs to have an integrated concept where it goes to Washington; the failure of Brevard County becomes the failure of this Country; there needs to be an ability to understand when does everyone work as a team of different NASA centers and interest groups for a larger budget because it goes to education and the quality of what we are as a people; and keeping Kennedy Space Center alive is in the National interest.  He noted there needs to be an understanding of the dynamics of how the other Centers operate and where they are politically.

 

Chairperson Colon stated the Florida Speakers Forum on Space and Technology is on September 14, 2007; and suggested Commissioner Scarborough represent Brevard County at the Forum, along with Congressman Dave Nelson and the Representatives.  She requested County Manager Peggy Busacca put a letter together to send all the information as soon as possible and invite folks from all over the State to come to the Forum.  Chairperson Colon stated her focus would be to send an email to all the elected officials; and she will send it with her letterhead so everyone receives a hard copy; and requested Ms. Busacca find out how the Forum can be recorded so it can be televised; and stated basically the meeting could be videotaped and it is not going to be live.  Chairperson Colon advised the Steering Committee consists of the Armed Forces, Communications and Electronics Association, Board of County Commissioners, Brevard County Councils of Chambers, Brevard Workforce Development, Canaveral Council of Technical Societies, the Economic Development Commission of Florida Space Coast, Embry-Riddle, Florida Aviation, National Space Club, Orlando Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Space Committee, the Space Foundation, Space Florida, Spaceport, and as ex-officio, the NASA Government Relations Office.

 

 

 

Upon motion and vote, the meeting adjourned at 1:30 p.m.

 

 

 

 

 

ATTEST:

                                                                             __________________________________

                                                                             JACKIE COLON, CHAIRPERSON

                                                                             BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS

                                                                             BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA

___________________

SCOTT ELLIS, CLERK

 

 

 

           (S E A L)