OCALA, FL (352today.com) – Ocala Utility Services has recognized three employees for completing its state-certified apprenticeship program, a milestone that marks their transition into fully certified utility professionals.
The Ocala Utility Services Apprenticeship Program, established in 1978 and certified by the Florida Department of Education, combines hands-on learning with technical education. Apprentices complete 8,000 hours of on-the-job training and 576 hours of classroom instruction to earn their certifications.
The latest graduates are:
- Gabriel Just-Rodriguez, Equipment Maintenance Technician (Water Resources)
- Chris Kennedy, Water & Wastewater Treatment Plant & Systems Operator (Water Resources)
- Jeremy Retherford, Substation Electrician (Ocala Electric Utility)
These team members now join the ranks of trained professionals helping to power and maintain essential services across the City of Ocala.
More news that matters to you…
-
(UNOFFICIAL RESULTS) Here Are the Returns in the 2026 Primary Elections in North Central Florida
Here’s a running tally of returns in various 2026 primary elections around the 352.
-
8th North Central Florida Outdoor Expo Returns to WEC Ocala (PHOTOS)
North Central Florida Media hosted its 8th Annual Outdoor Expo at World Equestrian Center on Aug. 15, 2026.
-
Marion County Just Hit Pause on a Kratom Ban — Here’s Why
Commissioners agreed to wait on federal action targeting synthetic products after public speakers and staff warned that a blanket local ordinance could unfairly punish traditional leaf users and responsible businesses.
-
Small Plane Crashes Near Micanopy, No Major Injuries Reported
Both occupants of the single-engine plane are reportedly safe.
-
New Report Says Florida Has the Sixth-Fastest Internet in the Nation
While Florida wasn’t among the states that gained the most speed over the past year, the state still has some of the fastest median broadband transmission rates in America.