CareerSource Polk Honors Best Places to Work, Discusses Generations in the Workforce

CareerSource Polk has been honoring the Best Places to Work in Polk County for the last 20 years. On Aug. 15 it continued the tradition while also highlighting the opportunities offered by having multiple generations in the workforce. 

CareerSource Polk is a private, nonprofit administrator of workforce funds. This year’s theme, “The TALK,” included a conversation with five generations of workers at the organization’s annual meeting at the RP Funding Center.  

Always offering something creative at the breakfast banquet, Stacy Campbell-Domineck, President & CEO of CareerSource Polk, presented “The TALK” from CSPN Studios – or CareerSource Polk Network.

“It’s clear that our workplaces are more diverse than ever before, not just in terms of culture and background, but also in terms of age,” Campbell-Domineck said. “Today, we have up to five generations working side by side, each bringing unique perspectives, skills and experiences to the table.  

“From the seasoned wisdom of the Traditionalists and Baby Boomers to the innovative spirit of Millennials and Gen Z, our goal today is to explore how these generational differences can be harnessed to create a more dynamic, inclusive and productive work environment.”  

The session was hosted by Kelvin McCree of Laser Focused Solutions. 

Individual Awards

Also at the breakfast, Campbell-Domineck handed out awards to individuals and organizations demonstrating exceptional support of CareerSource Polk’s workforce development initiatives. The winners:  

Hammer Award

The Hammer Award, named after founding board member Marvin Hammer, honors an individual who has dedicated significant personal time and effort to the organization’s initiatives.

It was presented to Yesse Olivas, Senior Director of Human Resources at Tampa Maid Foods and a member of CareerSource Polk’s board of directors. “Her insightful feedback for service improvement reflects the proactive engagement that our organization values in its board members. Her mindful approach to staff, and her engaging personality make her an invaluable asset to the board and the community at large.” 

Miller Award

The Miller Award, named after board member Larry Miller, recognizes a board member who has demonstrated an overwhelming commitment to workforce development for Polk County through their engaged leadership, innovation, time, integrity and high moral and ethical standards.

Scott Dimmick, Senior Vice President and Chief Human Resources Officer at Lakeland Regional Health, was presented the award. “Scott’s leadership and mindfulness of the needs of today’s labor force continue to drive his passion and devotion to refining program design for successful outcomes.”  

CareerSource Polk Workforce Champion Award

The CareerSource Polk Workforce Champion Award, created to recognize an employer, individual or organization for significant contributions to the workforce and economic development initiatives.

It was presented to Terrell Griffin, Director of Parks and Recreation with the city of Haines City. “Terrell has been instrumental in bringing workforce development services closer to Haines City residents by providing office and training space, at no cost, for the delivery of youth services.” 

Pillar of Hope Award

The Chairman’s Choice Pillar of Hope Award, created by 2022 Board Chair Adil Khan, recognizes and shows appreciation to a frontline workforce development system staff person who has made a significant impact on the lives of others. The nominee must have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to minimizing barriers and improving outcomes for those who engage with the local workforce system.

The award was presented to Dayen Valentine, who has worked with CareerSource Polk for six years. “His work with our Fresh Start program is truly praiseworthy and reflects a strong commitment to social reintegration and second-chance opportunities.” 

Leadership Award

The board Leadership Award was given to board Chair David McCraw for his “steady, patient and unwavering leadership” over the past two years. 

Best Places to Work

CareerSource also handed out its Best Places to Work awards, starting with Employers of Distinction. This award honors employers who have received the recognition for three years in a row. They are:  

• Citizen’s Bank & Trust  
• CPS Investment Advisors  
• Lakeland Housing Authority  
• Pinnacle Sales Group  

“Companies recognized are the most innovative in the areas of motivating and retaining employees, training and development initiatives, and workplace practices that include commitment to work/life balance issues,” Campbell-Dominick said.  

She explained the Best Places to Work awards isn’t about pitting local companies against one another. “Instead, it celebrates and acknowledges those who genuinely prioritize their employees, workplace and clients. It’s about sincere efforts to foster an environment where employees feel appreciated, leading to a positive ripple effect throughout the organization.” 

Small Business Category winners are:

Medium Business Category winners are:

Large Business Category winners are:

Workforce Incentive Awards

CareerSource Polk also handed out incentive awards to people who have overcome challenges related to “unreliable transportation, lack of affordable housing, food insecurity and the high cost of childcare and healthcare – barriers that can significantly impact the workplace,” Campbell-Domineck said. “Despite these compounding challenges, our workforce incentive award applicants continue to press forward through seemingly insurmountable challenges to achieve their life goals. “ 

Talent Development

The team at CareerSource Polk is a valued partner in our community. Their expertise and committment to delivering high-quality, workforce services offers jobs seekers and business relevant training and robust solutions. As demand for talent continues to grow, CareerSource Polk remains an important resource.