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The College of Central Florida will receive $4,973,503 to establish a Center for Advanced Manufacturing from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program, which aims to enhance semiconductor-related educational programs across the state. The college will utilize the substantial funding to revolutionize its technology and engineering education offerings.

The new facility at the Ocala Campus will expand access to the Associate in Science in Engineering Technology program, its three specializations and related College Credit Certificates. New programs will include the Rapid Prototyping College Credit Certificate at both Ocala and Citrus campuses, and expansion of the Mechanical Designer and Programmer College Credit Certificate to the Citrus campus. This expansion will also increase the number of dual enrollment students.

“This project represents a massive step forward in 91��Ƭ’s strategic and ongoing efforts to offer technology programs that are expressly linked to emerging markets and high-skill, high-wage jobs,” said 91��Ƭ President Dr. James Henningsen. “It also helps ensure our graduates will go to work in our local manufacturing economy as technology leaders for those employers.”

This ambitious project involves a comprehensive remodel of 17,000 gross square feet of Building 9 at the Ocala Campus. The renovation will create new classroom and laboratory spaces, significantly enhancing the college’s Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology and 91��Ƭ Corporate College services. The entire project will cost an estimated $5 million, with approximately $4 million allocated for the renovation, $853,000 for equipment and trainers, and $15,000 for credential-related expenses.

The CAP Grant highlights the state’s commitment to nurturing a highly skilled workforce in Florida, particularly in the semiconductor and advanced manufacturing sectors. It will provide a total of $35 million to Florida school districts and Florida College System institutions. The initiative is a testament to Gov. DeSantis’ dedication to fostering educational excellence and economic growth through strategic investments in technology and engineering education.

About the Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant:
The Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Program was created in s. 1011.801, F.S. Its purpose is to provide grants to school districts and Florida College System institutions to fund some or all of the costs associated with the creation or expansion of career and technical education workforce development programs that serve lead to industry certifications included on the CAPE Industry Certification Funding List.