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’s workforce at a moment of extraordinary growth.
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.
A region growing faster than its talent supply
Tampa Bay’s 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.
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.
The decision to unify under CareerSource Tampa Bay created a rare opportunity to rebuild the system from the ground up. Kunkel’s appointment marked the start of that transformation.
How Kunkel is rebuilding the workforce system
Kunkel’s strategy centers on three pillars: collaboration, data and equity.
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.
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.
Equity
Kunkel is expanding access for veterans, youth and underserved communities. Her priority is making sure opportunity reaches every ZIP code.
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.
Why this shift matters for Tampa Bay’s economy
Kunkel’s approach reframes workforce development as an engine of economic growth — not an afterthought. Tampa Bay’s ability to compete nationally depends not only on attracting companies but also on preparing and retaining the talent they need.
By integrating two counties into one system, CareerSource now offers:
- A single point of contact for employers
- Streamlined recruitment and hiring support
- Clearer career pathways for job seekers
- Less duplication and more regional impact
The result is a stronger, more efficient workforce ecosystem that benefits businesses and residents across Tampa Bay.
How business leaders can support workforce innovation
Kunkel’s message to employers is clear: partnership drives progress.
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.
The more employers participate, the more resilient the region becomes.
What’s next for CareerSource Tampa Bay
Kunkel plans to deepen the organization’s capacity for innovation in 2026. Upcoming initiatives include:
- An Integrated Business Services Team to unite partners and leaders around shared strategies
- Expanded employer advisory groups to design industry-specific solutions
- New efforts to close opportunity gaps across both counties
A recent Lightcast report named Tampa Bay one of the nation’s strongest regions for talent retention. Kunkel wants to build on that momentum.
“I 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,” she said.
For companies or community partners looking to get involved, visit CareerSourceTampaBay.com or listen to Keidrian’s latest podcast about her first year as President and CEO.
This article was written by Keidrian Kunkel, CEO of CareerSource Tampa Bay.
