EP4: Innovating Tomorrow: Chris Sprowls on Building a Skilled Workforce at SPC's Innovation Hub

Welcome back to Standing In The Gap. In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Chris Sprowls, former speaker of the Florida House of Representatives. This special interview was held in the Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub at the Tarpon Springs Campus, a 10,000 square foot state-of-the-art space honors the vision of Chris Sprowls to cultivate a skilled workforce by fostering skill development, encouraging collaboration, and contributing to the growth of local manufacturing businesses. Their conversation spans a variety of topics, from Chris's roots in Tarpon Springs to the forward-thinking atmosphere of Pinellas County. Tune in as Chris provides valuable insights into the importance of mentorship and how key individuals have shaped his path to success. He and Dr. Williams also discuss the challenges of handling pressure and meeting high expectations, as well as their shared commitment to standing in the gap for others. This episode dives into the impact of innovation and creativity in education, highlighting the need for cutting-edge technology and time to elevate learning experiences. Join Dr. Williams and Chris Sprowls as they explore the intersections of education, workforce development, and community involvement. Discover how we can all work together to bring meaningful change to individuals and families. Don't miss this compelling conversation—tune in now! KEY POINTS [00:58] - Introduction of Chris Sprowls [01:41] - Chris’s experience as a Tarpon resident  [02:53] - On growing up in Pinellas County and its progressive spirit [05:12] - How Chris’s wife stood in the gap for him [08:15] - People who have helped Chris reach his achievements  [11:14] - On dealing with pressure and expectations [13:44] - What does Chris feel as a mentor? [15:28] - On sharing passion and mission with others [17:05] - Chris’s passion behind purpose to stand in the gap  [25:56] - The pivotal roles of reading and comprehension in education [28:30] - How Chris’s experience as a House Speaker stood in the gap [39:58] - On inclusivity and trajectory of ‘REACH ACT’ [48:27] - On enhancing education with appropriate innovation and time [51:23] - On navigating people connections without technology [54:55] - Challenges & obstacles Chris encountered (and overcame) growing up [01:01:09] - Did Chris imagine being named after a center at the age of 18? QUOTABLES  “At SPC, we've been focusing on better jobs, better lives. And that is all about everything we do must produce better jobs for our students to have better lives. That's our new strategic plan, focus, [and] push.” — Dr. Tonjua Williams “We're at the Innovation Hub, but it is a place of great innovation. Pinellas County has done an amazing job of selecting the right people at the right time for particular tasks.” — Chris Sprowls “I think sometimes people need to know that while you are successful and standing in the gap for others, it does not mean others haven't stood in the gap for you. I think that that's what's critical and that it doesn't have to define you.” – Dr. Tonjua Williams RESOURCES: Chris Sprowls LinkedIn | @chris-sprowls X | @ChrisSprowls  YouTube | Chris Sprowls Workforce Innovation Hub Reveal St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege  IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC  LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college  X | @spcnews  Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/