This document discusses Manatee County Public Works' career ladder program for its field maintenance division employees. It aims to provide structured training, increase retention of skilled workers, and maximize resources. The county has over 750 square miles and maintains over 1,300 miles of roads. The field maintenance division has 107 employees across road and drainage maintenance sections. The career ladder has 4 steps from trainee to senior technician, providing training, responsibility increases, and 5% pay raises at each step over 5 years. Training includes safety, equipment operation, and maintenance skills. Supervisors track training completion to ensure proficiency. The program benefits planning, budgeting, succession, and employees' career development with increased pay.