Restoring Spirit: Broward County Tax Collector Offers Opportunities to Displaced Spirit Airlines Employees
May 22, 2026
The Broward County Tax Collector’s Office moved quickly to support residents impacted by the unexpected shutdown of Spirit Airlines operations, which left hundreds of employees across Broward County facing sudden job loss and uncertainty almost overnight.
Following news of the closure, the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office immediately began coordinating with CareerSource Broward and other local partners to explore ways to assist displaced workers. Many of the impacted employees were stationed at Spirit Airlines’ headquarters in Dania Beach and had spent years building careers in customer service, operations, administration, and aviation support roles.
Recognizing the impact these job losses could have on families and the local economy, the Tax Collector’s Office prioritized connecting affected employees with meaningful opportunities and resources as quickly as possible.
A Commitment to Supporting Broward Families
Abbey Ajayi, Broward County Tax Collector, emphasized the office’s commitment to supporting residents during times of economic hardship and transition.
“Every job loss impacts a family facing uncertainty and disruption,” Ajayi said. “These are our neighbors, friends, and members of our community. Our office is committed to helping those affected by the abrupt closure of Spirit Airlines not only with words, but through action by connecting them with meaningful career opportunities and resources to help them move forward.”
As part of that effort, the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office participated in a dedicated hiring event on May 19 focused specifically on supporting former Spirit Airlines employees. The job fair brought together more than 25 local employers and workforce organizations committed to helping displaced workers secure new employment opportunities within South Florida.
Hundreds Attend Hiring Event for New Opportunities
The event saw a significant turnout, with nearly 300 job seekers in attendance. Throughout the day, representatives from the Tax Collector’s Human Resources team met directly with candidates to discuss current openings, career pathways, and future growth opportunities within the organization.
Recruiters and hiring managers engaged with at least 100 candidates during the event, many of whom brought impressive backgrounds in customer service, operations management, team leadership, and community engagement. Several candidates also had long tenures with Spirit Airlines and demonstrated the professionalism, adaptability, and service-focused mindset that align with the Broward County Tax Collector’s mission of Serving with Excellence.
The hiring event also became a meaningful moment of reconnection for many former Spirit Airlines colleagues. For some attendees, it marked the first time they had seen coworkers since learning about the company’s closure. While the atmosphere carried understandable emotions surrounding uncertainty and change, there was also a strong sense of optimism and community support throughout the day.
Employers and job seekers alike witnessed firsthand the positive impact that community collaboration can have during challenging economic circumstances. By bringing local organizations, public agencies, and employers together under one roof, the event helped provide displaced employees with hope, direction, and access to new opportunities.
Expanding Opportunities Through Public Service
The Broward County Tax Collector’s Office continues to focus on workforce growth and operational expansion as it prepares for additional service enhancements later this year. As part of the office’s modernization and expansion initiatives, the organization is actively recruiting individuals who are passionate about public service, operational excellence, and serving the residents of Broward County.
The office has spent the past year investing in modernization efforts designed to improve accessibility, efficiency, and customer experience for residents across the county. Those efforts include expanded technology initiatives, operational improvements, enhanced community outreach, and preparations for additional public-facing services expected to launch in the near future.
With those initiatives underway, the organization sees experienced professionals impacted by the Spirit Airlines closure as valuable additions to a growing public service workforce. Many former airline employees possess transferable skills that are highly relevant to government operations, including customer service, communication, problem-solving, and high-volume operational support.
In partnership with community organizations and workforce development agencies, the Broward County Tax Collector’s Office remains committed to helping residents navigate periods of transition while creating pathways toward stable and rewarding careers.
Former Spirit Airlines employees who were unable to attend the hiring event, along with other job seekers interested in joining the organization, are encouraged to visit the Broward County Tax Collector’s career page to learn more about current job openings, employment opportunities, and upcoming hiring initiatives.
As Broward County continues adapting to economic changes and workforce challenges, the Tax Collector’s Office says it will remain focused on serving the community beyond its traditional responsibilities — supporting residents not only through essential government services, but also through meaningful community partnerships and workforce opportunities.