Santa Fe College, in partnership with Alachua County and CareerSource North Central Florida, is launching a new heavy diesel mechanic training and certification program aimed at strengthening the region’s skilled labor force and supporting long-term economic development.
The public is invited to attend a ribbon-cutting ceremony for the program on Monday, Aug. 11, 2025, at 10 a.m., at the Alachua County Public Works Fleet Operations facility (5620 NW 120th Lane, Gainesville).
Set to begin in August, the program will train about 18 students annually, equipping them with the practical skills needed for careers in diesel engine repair, agricultural equipment maintenance, mobile heavy machinery service and related high-demand fields.
“Alachua County is proud to host this innovative training program at our Fleet Operations facility,” said Alachua County Commission Chair Charles Chestnut IV. “This partnership shows what can be accomplished when public and educational institutions come together to meet local needs, support working families and strengthen our economy.”
The initiative was developed in response to Alachua County’s successful recruitment of the U.S. Army Reserve’s new Equipment Concentration Site, which is scheduled to open in east Gainesville in spring 2026. The military investment is expected to create sustained demand for certified diesel mechanics, making this training program a strategic asset to the region and boosting the local economy.
“This collaboration represents a monumental step forward for our community and our workforce," said Santa Fe College President Paul Broadie II. "By providing top-tier training and certification, we are not only empowering individuals with lucrative career paths but also fueling the economic engine of Alachua County, ensuring a pipeline of skilled professionals for vital industries."
Florida is projected to add nearly 25,000 diesel mechanic jobs by 2032, with the industry growing at an average annual rate of 3.1% starting in 2024, according to Florida Commerce 2024-2032 employment projections. The median hourly wage for diesel mechanics in 2023 was $25.89.
"CareerSource North Central Florida is committed to connecting talent with opportunity,” said Phyllis Marty, the organization’s chief executive officer. “This program is a clear example of proactive workforce development, offering a clear pathway to high-wage, high-demand careers that will strengthen our regional labor market and support local businesses.
For more information, please contact Alachua County Economic Development Manager Sean McLendon at 352-548-3765 or smclendon@alachuacounty.us and Santa Fe College Marketing Manager Maria Gebhardt at 954-463-6622 or maria.gebhardt@sfcollege.edu.
