Meet Jon Lugo, Oneida CSD Alumnus, Class of 2006

Jon Lugo fondly remembers his time at Oneida City School District for the passion of the staff, the pride and morale of the students, and the unforgettable roar of the stands during football and soccer games that brought the community together to cheer for our teams.

After high school, Jon proudly served in the U.S. Army for eight years, including two combat tours in Iraq (2008–2009) and Afghanistan (2012–2013). He also earned his Bachelor’s degree in Business with a focus in Finance from the University of Phoenix.

Following his military service, Jon worked in the oil and gas industry from 2014–2020, rising from Ground Laborer to Coil Tubing Supervisor. He then transitioned to Underground Gas and Electric work, advancing to Assistant District Manager, Assistant City Manager, and Leadership Trainer in Austin and San Antonio between 2020–2022.

Jon is currently the Events and Facilities Manager at the Utica ADK Bank Center, overseeing operations for the AHL Utica Comets, MASL UCFC Soccer Team, NEXUS Center, BABES at Harbor Point, 311 Main, Tailor and The Cook, and KQ Ice Cream as part of the Garden Entertainment Group. He also previously served as Fabrication Supervisor for Ferris in Sherrill, NY.

To future graduates, he offers this advice: "Do what makes you happy and that doesn't feel like work. Life is too short! Find a career and work environment that you enjoy and make the best of it! As an old leader and mentor of mine said, "If you don't like the way things are operating, get promoted and change it!"

Jon’s journey reflects a dedication to service, leadership, and community—values he first experienced as a student at OCSD.