STUART, Fla. — Witham Field has been around for nearly a century and today claims to be one of the major economic engines in Martin County.

The county is now investing in the next generation of workers to keep the airport and region thriving.

Martin County Deputy Administrator George Stokes is inside what will become the REACH Center. It stands for “Reinventing Education and Career Support.”

“So it’s a fast track to get into the job market,” Stokus said.

This technical learning center was licensed in 2021. The county learned lessons from the pandemic when deciding what to offer.

“Some industries have gone bankrupt and these individuals need to be reskilled and re-educated so they can handle different types of jobs,” Stokus said.

Manufacturing, maritime work and aviation skills will be taught here.

One of the main reasons for locating the REACH Center at the airport is that the airport is home to approximately 55 businesses, connected to 6,800 jobs and has a $1.3 billion impact on the local economy.

Stokus said one of Witham Field’s largest employers, Daher Aerospace, is planning a big expansion.

“They’re looking to make planes here at the Martin County Airport. They’re going to have to hire 400 more people,” Stokus said.

Two of the biggest challenges when it comes to finding a job are transportation and childcare. So, a public bus stop is planned by the center and possible child care programs could be set up with the county parks and recreation division.

The new building is expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2025.