Mission Statement
To provide an environment for manufacturing, distribution, logistics, supply chain, service support providers and educators to exchange ideas, share knowledge, discuss opportunities and share solutions for the mutual benefit of the manufacturing environment in Marion, Levy, Citrus and Sumter counties.
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It is time to kick-off the 17th Annual MRMA Golf Tournament to be held on October 7th, 2021.
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The annual tournament plays an important part in the Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association mission. The proceeds of the annual tournament support manufacturing, engineering, supply chain management and logistics programs in area schools located in Marion, Citrus, Levy and Sumter counties. In addition, the proceeds have made the Rob Adamiak Memorial Scholarship Fund possible for students attending the College of Central Florida with a concentration on manufacturing, logistics, supply chain management, finance, business or computer technology. Through 2020, MRMA awarded 56 students with scholarships and this year we have an additional 17 students requesting Scholarships to pursue studies in these fields.
Since the summer of 2018 Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association has supported the following programs:
2018
IHMC Summer Robotics Camp – MRMA provided two student scholarships
Rob Adamiak Memorial Scholarship – three students received scholarships
2019
Marion County Youth Career Expo – Support
Belleview High School Robotics Automation & Design (RAD) Program – Equipment
Rob Adamiak Memorial Scholarship – three students received scholarships
2020
Lockheed Martin STEMCon – Support
Citrus County Youth Career Expo – Support
Levy County Youth Career Expo – Support
IHMC Summer Robotics Camp 2020 – MRMA provided five student scholarships
Co-Sponsored Tour Videos of SPX Flow and Winco Mfg., LLC for Manufacturing Days
2021
Marion County Youth Career Expo – Support
Citrus County Youth Career Expo – Support
Levy County Youth Career Expo – Support
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion State of the Workforce Conference – Support
Racing to Manufacturing Summer Camp – CF Corporate College – Support
IHMC Summer Robotics Camp 2020 – MRMA provided five student scholarships
College of Central Florida – Engineering Technology Program – PLC Cables
Withlacoochee Technical College – Electrical Program- HMI Training Equipment
Withlacoochee Technical College – Industrial Machinery and
Controls Technicians Program - Equipment
Rob Adamiak Memorial Scholarship – Scholarships will be announced in July
Deep thanks to all of our Golf Tournament Sponsors and to
Whitt Harper, Golf Tournament Chair for making this possible.
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Please be sure to join us on October 7th for the 17th Annual Tournament.
Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association Board of Directors
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Join us for our June 10th meeting
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June 10th is our first tour back and is hosted by the CEO of Fidelity Manufacturing, Mitch Twardosky. Recently we learned about their “Culture that Drives Success” and now you have the opportunity to see it in person.
About the company:
Fidelity Manufacturing was founded in July 2014, by Brad Dinkins. Fidelity manufactures products for the standby generator industry. There are only three companies in the state of Florida that offer similar products. Our product line consists of fuel tanks, enclosures, trailers and stair/platform systems for generators. We offer a unique, all-aluminum enclosure built with a tube frame design. Most of our competitors use a steel, formed panel enclosure. Our design allows for a stronger, corrosive resistant, longer lasting product. Due to our quality and standard 3-year warranty, we have seen 50% - 75% growth year over year. Our customers are located throughout the US, Caribbean and Latin America.
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Welcome New Board Member
Keith McMahon
Southeastern Freight Lines
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Packaging Alternatives Corporation is a locally owned full-line packaging materials supplier. Founded in 1994 by Jim Byrne, an Air Force Veteran, and his wife Sandie Byrne. Our mission statement is “to deliver quality products on time, to offer a competitive price and to always provide a pleasant customer service experience.” We live by the motto, “We make it easy for our customers to do business with us.” We provide a personal touch, respond to our customer’s needs and offer a level of service that too often is missing in business today. We are proud to call Ocala home, where we strive to be valuable members of our community and give back whenever we can.
Our expertise in the packaging field has allowed us to create JIT (Just-in-Time) and VMI (Vendor-Managed-Inventory) programs that work exactly the way our customers expect. We work closely with our customers to create an individually tailored inventory management program specific to each customer’s needs, where we take care of the details. These programs give us the advantage of long-term business relationships that save our customers time, money and warehouse space. We always look for ways to make a difference to our customer, not just sell a box. We want to be “Your Hometown Packaging Supplier”.
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C-Suite Forum
June 23, 2021
Presents
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Mark Griffiths
Client Partner at Newleaf Training & Development
In May, Mark Griffiths presented “Supervisory Management Essentials” at our MRMA Member meeting and last year delivered a session focused on “Identifying, Developing and Mentoring Future Leaders” at our C-Suite Forum and “Emotional Intelligence (EQ) for Managers” for our general membership group – all of the presentations scored high marks. Following the series, we are pleased to present “Leading Others”.
"Leading Others"
Businesses around the world are working hard to adapt to a new way of life brought on by the global pandemic. Some are struggling to plan for long-term success in a professional landscape riddled with uncertainty, whereas others are viewing this period of transition as an opportunity to rethink and reinvent their workplace culture.
Regardless of COVID19 - the workforce was beginning to see a shift away from brick and mortar real estate to flexible working with the number of remote employees on the rise - the Pandemic has simply accelerated this change. As such, the demand for good leadership is more important than ever.
Virtual leadership is defined as a form of leadership in which teams are managed via a remote working environment. Like traditional leadership roles, virtual leaders focus on inspiring workers and helping teams accomplish their goals.
This 60-minute seminar presents a compelling new way of looking at the role of today’s leaders as one of support rather than one of control. Effective leaders ensure they manage themselves before they try to influence others. Great leaders are men and women of high character and high competence.
Through real-life examples, participative exercises and an action-orientated format, participants apply proven leadership principles and character-based methods to bring out the very best in the people they lead - whether they are physically in the same building, or communicating remotely.
Never before in the history of our working lives has the call for excellent leadership been as strong as it is now. This seminar will significantly and sustainably help inspire your present and future leaders to achieve excellent results.
Sponsored by
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Please be sure to save the date for the 2021 MRMA Golf Tournament. For 2021, we have pushed the date forward to October to allow companies time to feel comfortable in allowing their employees to participate in the event. We look forward to seeing you all there for another successful year.
Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association
Board of Directors
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Click on form below to download a printable pdf version |
College of Central Florida Cuts Ribbon on Innovative Apprenticeship Lab |
Contact: Dr. Jennifer Fryns
352-854-2322, ext. 1728
Partnership with Lockheed Martin, CareerSource Florida network helps apprentices build careers in aerospace industry; earn college credit
OCALA, Fla., (May 11, 2021) – College of Central Florida and Lockheed Martin representatives joined elected officials and education, industry, workforce development and community leaders to cut the ribbon and formally open a state-of-the-art apprenticeship lab.
“Apprenticeships are a unique way to provide a student with education, career training and a job simultaneously and a valuable opportunity for us to work directly with an employer,” said Dr. Jim Henningsen, CF president. “The synergy created when partners come together in the best interest of their communities is unrivaled.”
Lockheed Martin’s two-year apprenticeship program trains electronics associates who will solder circuit cards and wiring harnesses used in aerospace and defense systems. The first cohort of apprentices began their work with 80 classroom hours in the new lab before transitioning to Lockheed Martin’s Ocala facility where they receive additional education and complete the program.
“Our partnership with the College of Central Florida and CareerSource Florida extends our training capabilities and is instrumental in providing a sustainable talent pipeline for our future operations as we strive to help create highly skilled and high-wage career opportunities” said Phil Lowery, director of Lockheed Martin Ocala operations.
The partnership resulting in today’s announcement began in 2019 when Lockheed Martin launched an initiative to hire and train apprentices across its enterprise over the next five years. CareerSource Florida, the governor’s principal workforce policy board, provided support in building those apprenticeship programs, recruiting potential talent, and identifying grant opportunities to defray training costs. CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion, the local workforce development board serving the Ocala area, assists Lockheed Martin with identifying candidates for the apprenticeship program.
“Governor Ron DeSantis has prioritized expanding workforce education and training opportunities to help all Floridians begin and grow in rewarding careers, and apprenticeships provide a great career path,” said CareerSource Florida President and CEO Michelle Dennard. “CareerSource Florida’s partnership with Lockheed Martin, the College of Central Florida and CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is helping bring in-demand career opportunities to hundreds of local residents, and we’re excited to support the program’s expansion in other communities.”
Since the start of the program, Lockheed Martin has hired 349 apprentices, 20 of whom started their training in one of three different cohorts at the CF lab since February of this year.
“The Governor challenged us to be #1 in workforce and technical education by 2030. Today is another example of his leadership and vision becoming a reality,” said Commissioner of Education Richard Corcoran. “This innovative partnership with CareerSource, Lockheed Martin and the College of Central Florida puts in place a new apprenticeship program in the aerospace industry that will open new doors for Floridians looking for a rewarding high-skill, high-wage job. We remain laser-focused on expanding Florida’s workforce education and training opportunities so that Floridians can upskill quickly, acquire nationally recognized postsecondary credentials of value, and ensure high wage jobs can be filled by well-educated and well-trained Floridians.”
“Lockheed Martin’s two-year apprenticeship program will be essential in growing and retaining talent in the Sunshine State,” said Secretary of Commerce Jamal Sowell, president and CEO of Enterprise Florida, Inc. “This partnership with the College of Central Florida and CareerSource Florida will create countless opportunities within our communities.”
“Growing Florida’s skill-based workforce is a top priority for Governor DeSantis, and the Department is proud to support the apprenticeship program between Lockheed Martin and CareerSource Florida,” said Dane Eagle, Executive Director of the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. “Our partnership is vital in the success of these training programs throughout the state, which continue to offer valuable technical skills and sustainable great career paths for Floridians.”
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The two-year program will congratulate its first round of graduates in July 2021 with the next class of apprentices starting May 24. To apply, visit lockheedmartinjobs.com or CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion’s website at careersourceclm.com for contact information. |
Welcome to the Educational Update |
Sam Ajlani
College of Central Florida, Associate Professor/Program Director, Engineering Technology | Business, Technology and Workforce. Sam serves on the Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association Board of Directors as Educational Liaison, providing you a monthly educational update.
Where does the training equipment come from?
For most all of us in education there are always hurdles and obstacles to overcome. Some of these are space, salaries, funding for supplies, teaching loads, managing labs, and getting students motivated. Most of these are things out of our control, but at least there is one thing we can gain some control for teaching students.
That is the equipment side of education. How can a low salary non-funded program be in control of obtaining equipment? At first the obvious solution would lead one to obtain grant dollars to support the purchase of equipment. For those of you that do not know how grants work, only a small portion of the grants have equipment funding. Also, even if you get monies for equipment there are stipulations on matching funds which means most colleges and school systems must come up with some portion of the funding to match what is given. This can lead to exceedingly difficult situations financially.
On the other hand, most programs have budgets, right? Well for the most part, in education, the “budget” is barely enough to pay for consumables much less costly trainers and equipment. There are programs with some Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) that discount for education, but these tend to be very slim. Most of these are 25% or less. So for example, a $5000 piece of equipment would be discounted to $4000. As far as software, the discounts are steeper, and many are offered for free.
The students coming out of technical training are expected to be able to possess at least entry-level skills. This can only be accomplished through working on equipment that matches what is used in manufacturing. Therefore, how are technical programs supposed to obtain the proper equipment and deliver solid training for the students? Well, the best way is to go to the local manufacturers and ask if there is any used equipment and/or systems that are functional and no longer in use.
The key word is functional! If a company donates old used equipment, it needs to be functional, so the school and program does not have to spend money to get the equipment repaired. If that must happen then the program is back where it started with no money and equipment that is not functional. That can be worse than with no equipment at all. In the service area of Marion, Levy, Citrus and Sumter counties, there are about 10 programs that need equipment to help train students. Many of these programs must share resources and move equipment around to help each other. This severely restricts the access students have to properly train on equipment. Therefore, it severely restricts the level of training.
… if you have a “boneyard” with equipment that can be used to train students, by all means let your local college or technical program know it is available…
These programs are always looking to local industry to help out with used functional equipment to keep their programs updated and improving the skills of their students. So, if you have a “boneyard” with equipment that can be used to train students, by all means let your local college or technical program know it is available. Just remember to be careful of proprietary equipment used in special processes. There is a list given every six months to a year from the schools and colleges that list needs by priority. Please let either Sam Ajlani or Kathleen Betz, Executive Director of MRMA, know so we can contact the local colleges and schools to help build a more skilled workforce for the future.
If you are interested in being a part of the solution to finding high skilled employees, join the Business Advisory Councils (BAC) for Engineering and Logistics committee by letting either Kathleen Betz, Executive Director of MRMA, or Sam Ajlani at ajlanis@cf.edu know you are interested, and we can help you make contact.
For more information on these education and training articles, contact Sam Ajlani at ajlanis@cf.edu or call 352-873-5800, ext. 1471.
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Congratulations to Sam Ajlani!
Sam Ajlani was recently awarded the “Gabor Award” from the College of Central Florida at the May 7th Employee Service and Recognition event.
The Gabor Employee Recognition Awards recognizes outstanding faculty and staff contributions to the College of Central Florida students, the college and community. The Gabor Award acknowledges all employees for their service during the past year and honors three recipients whose peers have recognized them as truly outstanding.
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2021
Board of Directors
Evamark Logistics
President and Chairman of the Board
ANCORP
Vice President / President Elect
Trademark Metals Recycling
Treasurer / Secretary
College of Central Florida
Education Chair / MTI Advisory Committee Chair
Non-Voting Member
Express Employment Professionals
Program Chair / Scholarship Chair
Florida SBDC
Executive Activities Chair
Non-Voting Member
Brown & Brown Insurance
Communications Chair
Brown & Brown Insurance
Membership Chair / Golf Tournament Chair
Dimension Works
Board Member
Winco Manufacturing
Board Member
Collier, Jernigan, Eastman & Zublick, P.A.
Board Member
Lockheed Martin
Board Member
Southeastern Freight Lines
Board Member
Artemis Plastics
Board Member
Phoenix Wood Products
Board Member
Fidelity Manufacturing
Board Member
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Membership Chair / Golf Tournament Chair
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Member Benefits
Your membership to the MRMA comes with many benefits such as . . .Read more..
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MRMA
Executive Director
Kathleen Betz
3003 SW College Road,
Suite 205
Ocala, FL 34474
352-840-5764 Office
352-286-5915 Cell
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Save the Date
General Meetings
June 10, 2021
July 8, 2021
August 12, 2021
September 9, 2021
October 14, 2021
November 11, 2021
December 9, 2021
C-Suite Forum
June 23, 2021
August 25, 2021
October 27, 2021
Golf Tournament
New Date
October 7, 2021
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Attention Small Business Owners:
The SBA is now accepting applications for the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).
The new Economic Aid Act is aimed at providing relief for new and certain existing borrowers, with priority given to underserved communities. Learn about the new round of PPP loans, who is eligible, and how to apply at: https://floridasbdc.org/PPP.
Need help? Contact the Florida SBDC at UNF at www.sbdc.unf.edu or 800-450-4624 for no-cost consultation on how to move forward.
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MRMA Newsletter Previous Issues
March 2021:
May 2021
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Join Us!
June 10th
Fidelity Manufacturing Facility Tour
Reservations Required
June 23rd
Leading Others
Presentation from Mark Griffiths, Newleaf Training and Development
Reservations Required
July 8th
ANCORP
Facility Tour
Reservations Required
Would YOUR company like to host a tour?
Two spots left:
August 12th
September 9th
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Customizable Training
If you are interested in quick technology training or are looking to train in robotics?
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Provide feedback to our Regional Educatiors - Participate in Advisory Council meetings.
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CF Internship Connection
Make a difference! There are still plenty of students to hire or to use as an intern.
Contact Bonnie Hays, Business & Technology Coordinator at haysb@cf.edu or call 352-873-5800, ext. 1855.
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Hot off the Press!
CTE’s Something to Celebrate May edition
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Apprenticeships?
Have you thought about an Apprenticeship Program? Let us help!
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COVID-19
Updates for our regional school systems can be found here:
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Because you can't live life without skills
CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion and 180 Skills are happy to announce the addition of 24 new courses in four new competency categories to the 180 Skills library. 180 Skills provides high-quality, short-term manufacturing and workforce skills training in a flexible and responsive manner aligned with your business needs. The online career and technical experience focuses on building the next-generation manufacturing workforce.
New Competency Categories
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Click here for Program Outline
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Don’t panic: CareerSource offers support as unemployment compensation waivers end
OCALA, Fla. (May 24, 2021) – Waivers that had made it easier to file claims for Reemployment Assistance during the pandemic will end May 29. Also, as part of state’s Return to Work initiative, the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity announced today it will end its participation in the $300-per-week Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation program effective June 26.
But job seekers should know: CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion is ready to help with fee-free services and support programs that not only can help them submit claims but, more importantly, find employment.
Rusty Skinner, CareerSource CLM’s CEO, said the key takeaway now that the waivers have expired is: “Don’t panic.”
“We remain committed to helping our residents recover from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and move forward with new or better careers,” he said. “Yes, we can help claimants meet the requirements to request unemployment compensation benefits, but more importantly, we are here to help those who are out of work find the kind of good, gainful employment that those benefits can’t replace.”
Formerly known as unemployment compensation, Reemployment Assistance (RA) provides temporary wage replacement benefits to qualified individuals who are out of work through no fault of their own. The state’s compensation program is run by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity.
Work registration and job search requirements, along with a mandatory waiting week, had been waived for those filing RA applications from March 15, 2020 through May 29, 2021. The waiting week waiver ends June 26. Claimants for Florida’s state RA compensation will now be required to return to DEO’s CONNECT system every two weeks to request their benefits or “claim their weeks.”
From March 7, 2020 through May 15, 2021, there were 57,441 initial claimant counts for the three-county region, representing 28.5 percent of the labor force in Citrus, Levy and Marion counties. Statewide during that same period there were 3.2 million initial claims.
For the week ending May 15, there were 310 initial claims – 217 in Marion County, 70 in Citrus County and 23 in Levy County. In contrast, during the same week one year ago, there were 2,989 initial claims – 1,937 in Marion County, 817 in Citrus County and 235 in Levy County.
Skinner said that the goal of registering for work and conducting weekly job searches is to be able to get back to work as “unemployment compensation benefits are temporary and can never fully replace a paycheck.”
“This is a great time to seek reemployment; employers are hiring and we can help job seekers prepare for and find employment,” he said, adding that currently, Employ Florida lists more than 10,600 jobs available in the region – 10,000 in Marion County, 3,024 in Citrus County and 587 in Levy County. Employ Florida is the state’s premier online job board used by the CareerSource Florida network.
CareerSource CLM’s Career Centers are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for fee-free staff-assisted services as well as use of Resource Room computers and other resources to facilitate filing claims, conduct job searches and access services that lead to employment.
CareerSource career centers are located in Ocala, Lecanto and Chiefland; the affiliate Talent Center at the College of Central Florida is located at CF’s Ocala campus. Health safety precautions, including use of face masks by staff and customers, as well as other measures remain in place.
Virtual services also continue to be offered via phone, email, Live Chat and online at careersourceclm.com.
Skinner said that those visiting the career centers will find listings for local job openings as well as receive staff-assisted job search and placement services.
Additionally, Skinner stressed the importance of improving employability skills as candidates seek reemployment. Among CareerSource CLM’s fee-free offerings:
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SkillUp Citrus Levy Marion offers free access to Metrix Learning, a dynamic online training platform with more than 6,000 courses that can be accessed 24/7.
- 180 Skills focuses primarily on building the next-generation manufacturing workforce, providing high-quality, short-term training in a flexible and responsive manner.
- Professional workshops are available in a variety of formats – virtually on-demand, live via Zoom, and returning next month, in-person – covering topics such as targeted resume writing, interviewing tips and career development.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, call 800-434-JOBS (5627) or visit careersourceclm.com to contact CareerSource CLM by email or Live Chat.
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2021 MakeMore Manufacturing Summit Kicks Off Business Growth Segment with CEOs from Tervis, Monin, Luminar, and others
Florida’s Economic Powerhouses Join Forces to host four virtual segments
Orlando, Fla – Florida's leading workforce, business and economic development organizations kick off the 2021 Florida MakeMore Manufacturing Summit with the Business Growth virtual segment on June 22-23. The Business Growth segment is the first in a series of four total virtual segments spanning 2021 and will feature leaders manufacturing sector and a keynote presentation by Tervis CEO Rogan Donelly. Each segment will highlight a topic vital to Florida’s manufacturing sector. The event provides a platform to exchange ideas about how Florida's resources address the impact of market dynamics, economic trends and policies, and innovative technologies in the manufacturing sector. The initiative is a partnership amongst Associated Industries of Florida, CareerSource Florida, Enterprise Florida, the Florida Chamber of Commerce and FloridaMakes.
“The manufacturing sector represents nearly 5 percent of Florida’s GSP,” said Kevin Carr, FloridaMakes CEO. “During the Pandemic, manufacturing was deemed an essential industry and we saw the innovation of Florida’s makers as they pivoted to produce everything from PPE to ventilators. As this sector continues to grow, it’s imperative that we foster the connectivity of the business community with state and regional leaders to make sure that Florida continues to increase its productive capacity.”
As Florida looks ahead to a post-Covid economy and addressing issues vital to Florida’s vibrant manufacturing sector, the Business Growth segment on June 22-23 will feature two days of presentations and discussions designed to be a catalyst for Florida’s future. Business Growth virtual segment topics include: workforce, growth capital, supply chain, emerging markets, manufacturing policy updates, and the announcement of the finalists for the Florida Sterling Manufacturing Business Excellence Awards.
Event details:
2021 MakeMore Manufacturing Summit “Business Growth” Segment (virtual):
June 22-23 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m. both days (this time is inclusive of networking)
Future segments include:
Talent Development (June), Technology (August) and Outlook 2022 (October)
Speakers and presenters from across Florida and the country will be featured. For complete event agenda, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit FloridaMakeMore.com.
Remember to use Code: MRMA when you register for a 10% discount.
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$128 – Individual Segment Ticket
$349 - Full Summit Bundle Ticket (includes four segments)
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Sponsorship Opportunities |
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Investment levels are available for the full Summit or per segment. All sponsors will receive a virtual exhibit booth in the Made in Florida Expo during all four segments through October.
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Over-the-year job gains show strong rebound across entire region
OCALA, Fla. (May 21, 2021) – The CareerSource Citrus Levy Marion region is bouncing back in a major way from its Covid-19 induced slump. While the unemployment rate for April, at 5.5 percent, remains nearly the same as the previous month, it is down from the year ago rate of 13.1 percent.
Across the three-county region, the labor force expanded over the year by 17,075 to 210,741, the number of those with jobs grew by 30,736 to 199,045, and the number of unemployed dropped by 13,661 to 11,696.
According to preliminary employment numbers for April, released today by the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity, Levy County continues to hold the lowest jobless rate in the region at 4.9 percent, down 0.1 percentage point over the month; Marion County followed with a rate of 5.4 percent, the same rate as March; and Citrus County’s rate was 6.2 percent, a decrease of 0.2 percentage point. Florida’s not seasonally adjusted jobless rate – a measure that matches the way local rates are calculated – was 5.1 percent, down 0.2 percentage point over the month and 8.8 percent lower than April 2020.
Rusty Skinner, CEO of CareerSource CLM, said “our metrics show a sound recovery continuing. All three counties have had significant growth in labor force participation and employment since last year this time. Our gains continue in these areas over last month.”
Skinner added that “this report shows a strong labor market for returning workers” which is significant as DEOs reemployment assistance (unemployment compensation) waivers end May 29.
“Locally, we have job postings that are strong and offer great opportunities to those seeking work,” he said.
The nonagricultural employment in the Ocala metropolitan statistical area, which covers all of Marion County, was 108,400 in April representing a 10.4 percent increase of 10,200 jobs over the year. Of those, private industry accounted for 9,900 new jobs, which is a job growth rate of 11.9 percent, for a total employment of 93,400.
In the Homosassa Springs MSA, which includes all of Citrus County, there were 33,100 nonfarm jobs, an increase of 3,800 jobs over the year for an annual growth rate of 13 percent, the eighth fastest growth rate among all Florida metro areas. All of the new growth occurred in the private sector, which reported 28,700 nonfarm jobs in April, reflecting a 15.3 percent private sector job growth rate over the year.
Here is the breakdown of April jobs numbers for each county:
Citrus County’s labor force in April contracted slightly by 90 to 48,749, the number of employed rose by 22 to 45,731 and the number of unemployed fell by 112 to 3,018. Compared to April 2020 when the unemployment rate was 15.5 percent, the labor force grew by 3,939, there are 7,843 more employed and 3,914 fewer unemployed.
Levy County’s labor force was virtually unchanged, inching up by 12 over the month to 17,424, the number of those with jobs increased by 36 to 16,576, and the number of jobless dropped by 24 to 848. Over the year, when the jobless rate was 10.8 percent, those numbers represent 1,571 more in the labor force, an increase of 2,434 with jobs employed and decrease of 863 unemployed.
Marion County’s labor force grew by 999 to 144,568, the number of those with jobs went up by 955 to 136,738, and the number of unemployed increased by 44 to 7,830. Compared to the same time last year, when the jobless rate was 12.6 percent, the labor force expanded by 11,575, the number of employed grew by 20,459 and the number of jobless dropped by 8,884.
The following industries in the Ocala MSA grew faster than statewide over the year: leisure and hospitality (+40.7 percent, up by 3,500 jobs for a total of 12,100); trade, transportation, and utilities (+11.6 percent an increase of 2,800 for 27,000 jobs); professional and business services (+9.9 percent, up 900 jobs for a total of 10,000); manufacturing (+7.6 percent, representing 900 new jobs for a total of 9,900); mining, logging, and construction (+7.2 percent, an increase of 600 jobs for a total of 8,900); and government (+2.0 percent which reflects an increase of 300 jobs for a total of 15,000).
Compared to all metro areas in Florida, the Ocala MSA tied for the third fastest annual job growth rate in government.
Other industries gaining jobs over the year were education and health services (+3,500 jobs for a 5.8 percent job growth rate and 18,300 total jobs); other services (+300 jobs for a 11.5 percent growth rate and a total of 2,900 jobs); and financial activities (+100 jobs reflecting a 2.7 percent growth rate for a total of 3,800 new jobs).
The information industry, with total employment of 500 jobs, was unchanged over the year.
Among the state’s 67 counties, Citrus County dropped from third to sixth highest jobless rate, tying with Sumter County; Marion County fell back from the 11th highest rate to 14th, tying with St. Lucie and Taylor counties; and Levy County, which went from 23rd to 26th highest rate, tied with Calhoun, Columbia, Escambia, and Suwannee counties.
Among the states metro areas, the Homosassa Springs MSA maintained the third highest rate, tying in April with the Village MSA, and the Ocala MSA posted the seventh highest rate, falling back one place.
The region’s preliminary employment summary for May will be released on Friday, June 18.
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State of the RAD Academy at
Belleview High School
Certifications
We have had a record year for our MSSC Certified Production Technician Industry Certifications. RAD had 33 students achieve this. We could possibly get 5 more if they pass their retakes in the next 3 weeks. As I mentioned during our presentation to MRMA members in March, I accelerated this with our juniors in hopes of them being eligible for internships with our industry partners. We also have 4 new Solidworks certifications and 2 from last year that will graduate. It was not an emphasis this year, but will be next year with all the returning RAD students. We also have a chance to pick up 2 more in the next 3 weeks if they pass their retakes.
Robotics Program
Thanks to the generosity of a MRMA donation, we have upgraded our industrial robotics program this year. We currently have two 24 inch robot arms, one 18 inch robot arm and one 112 inch robot arm. We are waiting on 2 more 12 inch ones to arrive. These are controlled by various methods like Python, LabVIEW, Arduino, and PLC. Most are electric, but some are pneumatic. We have a teach pendant as well for a few of them.
3D Printing
We have upgraded our additive manufacturing program as well. We currently have 4 commercial quality printers. We have 3 hobby printers that need constant attention (which is great to learn with). We plan to add a resin printer this summer (it has been ordered) and we will modify a couple of the commercial printers to print in metal and multiple colors. This will be our emphasis next year with Solidworks.
CNC
With our Haas, we finally were able to make our first part this year. This is a third year student standard and they were able to design a part in Solidworks, run it through CAMworks to create the G code and test it in our simulator and then run the part. We currently have 3 CNC printers operational. We have several Legacy ones that we hope to upgrade so they can run on Windows 10.
SkillsUSA
Additionally, we had 2 teams compete in the State competition for SkillsUSA. It was a virtual competition and most of our events were not feasible this year. However, we had a Drones team compete and they won 1st place, and we had an additive manufacturing team compete and they won 1st place as well. We are currently getting ready to represent Florida in the National Skills competition in the next 3 weeks. It will be virtual as well. We anticipate next year being in person with many more of our students able to participate in CNC, robotics, additive and manufacturing competitions.
We had the largest number of students in our program this year. We had the largest number of students apply for next year. We are excited about where we are and with the support of MRMA, we can continue to improve our program to produce the kind of workers that you need.
Thank you so much for all that you do for us!!
Sincerely,
RAD academy instructor
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Florida Small Business Development Center: Helping Businesses Grow & Succeed!
The Florida SBDC provides business owners with NO-COST, confidential consulting and training in all aspects of business management and growth.
How can the FSBDC help your business?
Experienced consultants help business owners develop strategies to increase sales, create jobs and improve profitability...all at no cost to you! From financial analysis, strategic planning and staff assessments to market research and digital marketing...the SBDC can help your business thrive.
Contact us to get started with your no-cost, virtual appointment today!
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Exporting? Are you using all the services available?
If you are currently exporting, are you using all the services – most are free – available to you? If not, you are missing out on a variety of valuable resources offered by several state and federal organizations.
Enterprise Florida, Inc. (EFI) is the state’s designated economic development organization. EFI’s International Trade & Development Division has six offices strategically located throughout the state, which are staffed with trade development professionals. They can help answer your export questions or find someone who can. In addition, EFI offers manufacturers and specific value-added service providers five international trade grants. The reimbursable grants range from $900 to $8,000 depending on which grant is chosen. Eligible companies can receive up to four grants during EFI’s Fiscal Year, which is July 1 to June 30.
Small Business Development Centers are located throughout the state and offer many services to help small business succeed. They are always affiliated with a major university. For exporters, the offices can be an invaluable resource for export assistance and trade data.
US. Commercial Service (USCS) is a federal agency, which is part of the US Department of Commerce. USCS trade specialists provide eligible companies many services – some free and others at nominal cost. In addition, offices are located worldwide at US Embassies and Consulates in other countries. Their job is to reduce barriers to trade and provide “boots on the ground” expert advice that can help increase exports from manufacturers and qualified service providers.
EXIM Bank offers a variety of export services including helping to reduce non-payment risk, and in some cases can give companies the ability to offer payment terms to foreign buyers.
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is best known for backing loans made by private financial institutions. In recent times, the SBA has been responsible for providing loans and grants during local disasters and the ongoing pandemic. The agency has specific loan programs for exporters who have a relationship with a bank that is SBA loan approved.
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Commercial Vehicle Driving at MTC!
Marion Technical College offers the Commercial Vehicle Driving Class A program many different times throughout the school year. Our CDL Class A program teaches students the importance of safety, accident prevention, and operating regulations. Students also learn through multiple driving scenarios while training on our state of the art driving simulator. Our CDL Class A program is 8 weeks long.
Within the last two school years, we have had many students complete the program, receive their CDL license, and have found job placement! Our completion, licensure, and placement rates are below.
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If you are interested in enrolling in our CDL programs, please visit www.mariontc.edu and fill out our online application! You may also contact our Student Services Department at 352-671-4134 or send an email to info@mariontc.edu for more information. Marion Technical College is also a certified testing site for CDL Class A & Class B licenses.
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CareerSource Central Florida has expanded its service capacity and are now opening our space for business customers to conduct interviews or small job fairs at Career Centers at a limited capacity.
The health and safety of our customers and staff remains our top priority and our current safety protocols will remain the same.
We’ll continue to conduct temperature screenings, practice social distancing and require everyone to wear a mask. We’re also limiting the number of people at each of our locations at any one given time.
Career Center Locations:
Lake Career Center
Lake-Sumter State College, 9909 U.S. Hwy 441, Building M#29, Leesburg, FL 34788
West Orange Career Center
9401 W. Colonial Drive, Ocoee, FL 34761
Southeast Orange Career Center
5784 S. Semoran Boulevard, Orlando, FL 32822
Osceola Career Center
Valencia College, 1800 Denn John Lane, CIT Building, Suite 300, Kissimmee, FL 34744
Under Refurbishment
*Seminole Career Center (Limited walk-ins, virtual appointments only)
1209 West Airport Boulevard, Sanford, FL 32773
Businesses can learn more and request an appointment with a dedicated Business Consultant by visiting CareerSourceCentralFlorida.com or by calling 1-800-757-4598.
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Brenda Chrisman | Economic Development Liaison
CareerSource Central Florida
Lake Sumter State College Foundation Building
9909 US Hwy 441, Leesburg, FL 34788
O: 407-531-1222 x6005 | C: 407-473-8609 | F: 407-284-4434
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MAPEI Breaks Ground on Major Expansion
in Sumter County, Florida
MAPEI Corporation broke ground on a large scale expansion of their facility in Wildwood, Florida. The new space will more than double their size. With it comes additional distribution capabilities and the introduction of manufacturing onsite. The project will take about a year to construct. With future plans to progressively increase production capacity the project is expected to create over 100 new jobs in the coming years.
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Mid-FL Regional Manufacturers Association | Website
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