Gainesville, FL — August 26, 2025 — Santa Fe (SF) College marked a major milestone in regional workforce development last week with the opening of the Ralph W. Cellon Jr. Institute for Skilled Trades and Advanced Manufacturing. This new training facility, located on SF’s Northwest Campus, underscores the college’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for in-demand, high-wage careers in North Central Florida.
The $1.8 million institute and 22,680 sq. ft. facility will expand capacity in Welding and HVAC programs while launching a brand-new associate’s degree in Engineering Technology – Advanced Manufacturing (ETAM). The 60-credit-hour ETAM program will equip students for careers in high-tech manufacturing and semiconductor industries, combining hands-on skills development with academic instruction.
The College also kicked off its Heavy Diesel Mechanic Training and Certification Program at Alachua County’s Public Works facility, a collaborative effort with CareerSource North Central Florida (CSNCFL), Alachua County, and the Army Reserve. These additions reflect a growing regional investment in specialized workforce pipelines. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, skilled trades jobs are expected to grow between 4% and 60% nationally through 2033.
For more information about skilled trades programs, training opportunities, or career support in North Central Florida, visit www.careersourcencfl.com.
About CareerSource North Central Florida
CSNCFL is the Local Area Workforce Development Board for Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, and Union Counties. As the region’s one-stop career center network, CSNCFL supports individuals with career planning, job search assistance, training programs, and hiring events, while helping businesses recruit, train, and retain skilled talent through grants, coaching, and partnerships.
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Media Contact:
Alexander Ganz, CSNCFL Marketing & Communications
aganz@careersourcencfl.com
520.344.0672