SALT LAKE CITY, UT, April 23, 2026 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Robert G. Ferris has been selected for inclusion in Marquis Who's Who. As in all Marquis Who's Who biographical volumes, individuals profiled are selected on the basis of current reference value. Factors such as position, noteworthy accomplishments, visibility, and prominence in a field are all taken into account during the selection process.

Mr. Ferris has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to leadership and service, most notably as chief executive officer of Advantage Services, Inc., in Salt Lake City, Utah, since 2014. He oversees day-to-day operations for the organization, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit social enterprise dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities and others facing barriers to employment. His responsibilities include developing and managing more than 60 government and private-sector contracts, leading a staff of 150 employees, administering an annual budget of $3.5 million, and securing, writing and administering grants. Under his leadership, the organization has earned recognition for innovative workforce development and reentry services.

Previously, Mr. Ferris served as chief executive officer and director of operations for House of Refuge in Salt Lake City from 2001 to 2007. In 2002, he founded a faith-based halfway house that provided essential support for individuals transitioning from incarceration or homelessness into training programs. He led the program through 2006, helping participants reintegrate through structured services and vocational opportunities.

From 2004 to 2008, Mr. Ferris served as a computer instructor at the Horizonte Instruction and Training Center within the Salt Lake City School District, providing evening instruction and equipping students with practical computer skills to strengthen employability and self-sufficiency.

Mr. Ferris began his career with distinguished service in the United States Army from 1984 to 1996. As a staff sergeant he worked as a system administrator, instructor, and platoon sergeant, he developed expertise in technology and leadership that later informed his civilian work. Following his military service, he served as system administrator for the City of Paramount, California, before relocating to Utah.

After relocating to Utah in 2001, Mr. Ferris developed a nationally recognized computer training program for individuals with mental health challenges at Valley Behavioral Health. In 2010, he joined Advantage Services, where he focused on supportive employment opportunities for individuals experiencing homelessness and those returning to the community after incarceration. He was appointed chief executive officer in 2014.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferris has remained actively engaged in civic leadership and advocacy. He served on the Utah Independent Living Council for eight years, including six years as chair and one year as vice chair, helping advance statewide independent living initiatives. He also served on the State Rehabilitation Council for seven years and held executive committee roles for approximately six years, including chair, past chair, member-at-large and secretary. In addition, he served for four years with the Salt Lake Valley Coalition on Homelessness as co-chair of the Employment and Education Core Function Group and contributed to employment-focused committees with the Utah Board of Corrections.

Mr. Ferris earned his high school diploma through Job Corps in Anaconda, Montana. He holds several professional credentials, including Utah state-licensed case manager, Utah state-certified employment specialist and Microsoft Windows certified trainer. These qualifications have supported his work designing training programs and delivering specialized services for individuals with complex needs.

He credits his faith as a central source of purpose and guidance throughout his personal and professional life.

His civic engagement also includes leadership roles with the Utah Statewide Independent Living Council, the State Rehabilitation Council and the Homeless Housing Coordination Council. He has contributed as a member of the Utah Defender/Offender Workforce Development Task Force, the Dignity of Work Task Force and the Lieutenant Governor's Collaboration to End Homelessness. In addition, Mr. Ferris has served as a pastor and church planter for 30 years, working extensively with troubled youth, gang-involved individuals, people experiencing homelessness and individuals who are incarcerated. He has also served as a chaplain and volunteer for 25 years in county jails and the state prison, providing support and mentorship to incarcerated individuals.

Mr. Ferris has received numerous honors, including the Salt Lake City Community Development Leadership Award (2019), the Best of State Award for a Humanitarian Organization (2013), and Most Innovative Program recognition from the Utah Office of Substance Use and Mental Health (2003) and Valley Mental Health (2002). He also earned multiple military medals for excellence and exemplary service during his tenure in the United States Army.

He is the author of "Community Computer Education Program Curriculum," published by The Independent in 2002, reflecting his commitment to expanding educational access for underserved communities.

Born in Pueblo, Colorado, in 1967, Mr. Ferris is the middle of three siblings. He overcame significant early adversity, leaving home at age 14 and living independently before continuing his education through Job Corps. He is married and has five children—three daughters and two sons—and four grandchildren ranging in age from six to 21. Outside of his professional commitments, he enjoys golf, fishing and camping.

Looking ahead, Mr. Ferris remains focused on developing emerging leaders to carry forward his work at Advantage Services, Inc., ensuring long-term organizational strength and continuity. He also intends to continue serving the community through pastoral leadership while prioritizing succession planning to extend the organization's impact beyond his tenure.

About Marquis Who's Who®:
Since 1899, when A. N. Marquis printed the First Edition of Who's Who in America®, Marquis Who's Who® has chronicled the lives of the most accomplished individuals and innovators from every significant field of endeavor, including politics, business, medicine, law, education, art, religion and entertainment. The suite of Marquis® publications, including Who's Who in America® and Who's Who in the World®, remains an essential biographical source for thousands of researchers, journalists, librarians and executive search firms around the globe. Marquis® publications can be viewed at the official Marquis Who's Who® website, www.marquiswhoswho.com.

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