ContributedCity of OcalaGraduates of the Ocala Utility Services Apprenticeship Program pose with city staff and their certificates during a recognition ceremony in Ocala, FL, in June 2025.
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.
Graduates of the Ocala Utility Services Apprenticeship Program were honored in June 2025 for completing thousands of hours of hands-on training and classroom instruction. The ceremony celebrated their achievements with family, colleagues, and city leaders. Courtesy: City of Ocala
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.
The redevelopment agreement between the City of Ocala and the developer of the historic Hotel Marion will be discussed under general business at the Nov. 4, 2025, Ocala City Council meeting.
Cedar Key is open business and welcomes your presence. Storms and untoward events hardly dampened the spirits of the island’s residents. Adversity has only made the community stronger.
