At Fred K. Marchman Technical College in Pasco County, Director Tonia Shook has implemented innovative strategies that have expanded access to workforce training, strengthened career pathways, and built impactful community partnerships that support student success.
Because of these efforts, Shook was recognized at the Talent Strong Florida Summit as FCAN’s 2026 Workforce Education Innovator.
Tonia strengthened the K–12-to-workforce pipeline through new high school partnerships and expanded district collaboration, dramatically increasing access to dual enrollment opportunities. Under her leadership, dual enrollment participation grew from 89 students in 2022–2023 to 1,114 students this year. This growth reflects a commitment to introducing students to career pathways earlier, reducing the cost of postsecondary education, and accelerating entry into high-demand careers.
To expand geographic access and eliminate transportation barriers, Tonia led the opening of a second campus. The new campus strengthens the regional talent pipeline and supports economic mobility in a growing community.
Supported by a $1 million grant from the Florida College System Foundation, Tonia launched the county’s first inclusive postsecondary workforce program for adults with intellectual disabilities, Phoenix RISE. The program provides hands-on training, industry-recognized certifications, and instruction in life and career-readiness skills, including financial literacy, time management, and workplace professionalism. The inaugural cohort launched this year, creating a pathway to meaningful employment for all students.
In addition to her work at the college, Tonia serves on the leadership board of the area’s local college access network, Spark Pasco-Hernando, guiding initiatives that expand opportunity and workforce readiness across the region.
Through visionary leadership, meaningful partnerships, and a focus on student success, Tonia is helping shape the future of workforce education across Florida.