Carmen Cruz is the National Engagement Manager of Building Talent Foundation (BTF). Prior to her role at BTF, she was the Sector Strategist for the Construction Industry with CareerSource Tampa Bay. During her time with CareerSource she provided workforce solutions for the hiring need of construction companies in the commercial and residential sector. During the past four years she has been working closely with trades schools, associations, unions, and apprenticeship programs to reduce the labor shortage in the industry. 

Throughout her career she has spent 19 years in workforce development serving different workforce boards in Florida and Puerto Rico including CareerSource Central Florida. Prior to her moving to Florida, she was the Operations Manager at a for-profit organization responsible for the development and implementation of placement programs, occupational trainings, workshops and accelerated high school programs dedicated to secure employment and retention to youth, adults and dislocated workers for several different workforce areas. 

Carmen holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies/Communications and a master’s degree in Office Administration from Pontifical Catholic University of Puerto Rico. She is also a Florida Certified Workforce Professional.