The Orange County Convention Center (OCCC) celebrates the retirement of 96-year-old Reuben Wilson. Wilson, a longtime member of the Security Division, began his career at the OCCC at age 70 as an on-call employee. He retired in March 2026 after more than two decades in dock operations, leaving behind a family legacy that continues at the Center today.

Wilson’s daughter, Onelia Perez, now serves as an on-call member of the Security team, working in dock operations just as her father did. Wilson immigrated to the United States from Cuba with his wife, who also worked at the Center as an on-call employee. The Wilson family’s connection highlights the OCCC’s longstanding culture of opportunity, stability and community – one that spans families and generations.

“Stories like Mr. Wilson’s remind us of what makes our convention center special,” said OCCC Executive Director Mark Tester. “We are committed to being a place where people can learn, grow and build meaningful careers, not just for themselves, but for their families. The Wilson family’s dedication reflects the strong sense of community that has defined the OCCC for decades.”

As Wilson now enjoys retirement, The Center of Hospitality honors not only his years of service but also the multigenerational legacy he helped establish. His story reflects the commitment and connection that defines the OCCC and the people who make it a place where careers and families can grow together.

The OCCC congratulates Wilson on his retirement and extends its gratitude to him and his family for their continued service!

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About the Orange County Convention Center
The award-winning Orange County Convention Center provides approximately $5 billion in economic impact to Central Florida annually. In recent years, the Convention Center has averaged nearly 200 events, including 115 conventions and tradeshows that attract more than 2.3 million attendees to the region each year. For more information about the Orange County Convention Center, visit www.occc.net.