Press Release for FSS Industrial Maintenance Residency Program

Date Posted: 02/25/2026

Category: Special Events

For Immediate Release

Housing Authority of Florence Launches Industrial Maintenance Residency Program with Inaugural Signing Day

Florence, SC - The Housing Authority of Florence (HAF), through its Residential Services One Stop Shop, proudly announces the official launch of the Industrial Maintenance Residency Program (IMRP). The program was introduced during a Signing Day ceremony held Monday, February 23, 2026, at the HAF One Stop Shop.

This milestone event marks the beginning of an innovative workforce development initiative designed to prepare local youth for high-demand careers in the skilled trades. The IMRP provides participants with hands-on training, industry exposure, and career readiness support to help bridge the gap between education and employment.

The first student selected for the program is Cedrick Bartell, a senior at Wilson High School. Cedrick, who is currently enrolled in the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Electricity Program, has expressed a passion for hands-on work and a strong desire to enter the workforce immediately after graduation. His long-term goal is to own his own company.

"I enjoy working with my hands and learning how things work," Cedrick shared during a recent meeting at Advantage Academy. "This opportunity gives me a chance to gain real experience and build a future in the trades."

Cedrick was joined at the Signing Day event by his parents, CTE Director and Business Education Coordinator from Advantage Academy, the Regional Manager representing Big Picture Learning and Harbor Freight Fellows, representatives from Wilson High School and Florence 1 School District.

The ceremony was held in conjunction with the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) Program Coordinating Committee (PCC) meeting, highlighting the Housing Authority's continued commitment to economic mobility and workforce development. The event underscored HAF's dedication to creating sustainable career pathways and expanding opportunities for Florence-area residents.