The Ocala Metro is Moving Forward. That means we are working steadily toward creating 4,500 new jobs in the next five years. Those jobs on average will pay 15 percent more than the county’s average wage and result in a capital investment of $400 million. We are accomplishing these goals through the strength of our partnerships. The College of Central Florida plays a vital role in helping meet our business attraction and retention goals by providing a competent, high-skilled workforce ready to meet the needs of current and future employers in high-demand jobs.
From certificates to associates and bachelor’s degrees in agribusiness, engineering technology, health information, computer information technology, equine studies, and logistics and supply chain management, CF has heard the demand of our targeted sectors. The college remains relevant and responsive, connecting workforce development to economic development by matching its programs to the needs of businesses and delivering educational opportunities to train new workers and up-skill current employees. CF looks to the future to develop programs that embrace technology as labor markets transition to a technology-driven economy. CF also looks to the future to nurture a college-going culture that encourages individuals to reach beyond a high school diploma and invest in attaining a higher level education that yields positive returns.
As a partner in Moving Forward, CF joins forces with the CEP to share opportunities with future students and employees at events such as the annual Youth Career Expo, which exposed nearly 750 students to careers in manufacturing, distribution, logistics, IT, and health care. The “Stay Local: Logistics, Engineering, Manufacturing” event in fall 2018 provided insight into high-skill, high-wage opportunities here in our community. And the ongoing Friday Talks Business Advancement Series provides professional development and networking opportunities to current and future area employees.
The CEP is the leading voice of business in our community. We continue to build a robust base for economic growth. The College of Central Florida provides strong, visible leadership and creates an educational infrastructure that supports a thriving economy. Business development and higher education share a common goal — to enrich lives. Beyond more jobs and increased income, quality of life reaches to improved health outcomes, civic engagement and social connectedness. These are the most important outcomes as we work together to support an environment where our citizens live, work and play. Together, we are MOVING FORWARD!
