GAINESVILLE, FL — May 13, 2025 — CareerSource North Central Florida (CSNCFL), in partnership with CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion (CSCLM), has launched a broadband workforce training initiative to expand career opportunities in the infrastructure sector across North Central Florida. Funded by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Employment and Training Administration through the H-1B Job Training Grant program, this effort addresses workforce shortages and provides training resources for jobseekers and employers.
Jobseekers may qualify for no-cost tuition for industry-recognized certifications, On-the-Job Training (OJT), and related supportive services. CSNCFL oversees business and jobseeker recruitment, eligibility screening, and enrollment through the Employ Florida system. While the grant directly serves Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, and Union counties, eligible jobseekers in Bradford and Alachua counties may still qualify through existing WIOA funding.
“Broadband infrastructure is expanding rapidly, and our local workforce must grow with it,” said Phyllis Marty, CEO, CSNCFL. “This grant allows us to support jobseekers who want to enter or advance in this sector while also meeting the talent needs of regional employers.”
Partners include Central Florida Electric Cooperative and Fiber by Central Florida, with support from Benton Technical Services and Echo Technologies. Training programs include fiber optics, CDL, electrical technician, and project management. Additional roles like linemen, tower climbers, and hub operators may be added based on employer demand.
In addition, FloridaCommerce has opened a Broadband Grant Registration Portal to streamline future funding access. ISPs, educational institutions, local governments, and employers may pre-register at www.FloridaJobs.org/Broadband.
The program is currently active and will continue through September 30, 2028. CSNCFL is exploring the addition of dedicated hiring events in coordination with graduating training cohorts.
For more information, contact Jessica McCrae, Community Resource Coordinator, CSNCFL:
352.955.2245 ext. 5915
jmccrae@careersourcencfl.com
About CareerSource North Central Florida (CSNCFL)
CSNCFL is the designated workforce development board for Local Workforce Development Area 26, serving Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, and Union counties. As a proud partner of the American Job Center network, CSNCFL connects employers with qualified talent and helps jobseekers access employment and training services across the region.
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