Meet the CFDC Summer 2026 Marketing Interns: Fresh Perspectives, Creative Energy, and Bright Futures 

This summer, the Central Florida Development Council hosted three interns from across Polk County. Rylan Bevis, Alexandra Otremsky, and Emily Smith had the opportunity to work alongside our marketing team, supporting social media, graphic design, investor relations and more. During their time with CFDC, they gained hands-on experience, contributed to meaningful projects, and helped share the stories of economic development in Central Florida. In this interview-style feature, get to know our interns, hear about their backgrounds and career goals, and discover what they learned during their time with CFDC. 

Rylan Bevis 

Rylan Bevis is a senior at the University of Mississippi, where she is studying Integrated Marketing Communications. She worked with our team to help create graphics for social media, website content, and provided investor relations support.  

“I was drawn to CFDC because of the well-respected individuals I would get to work with, as well as the chance to connect with community leaders and local businesses. Throughout the summer, I learned more about economic development in Central Florida and built meaningful professional relationships,” said Rylan. 

Rylan also had the opportunity to participate in several meetings throughout the summer, including our June investor meeting at Orlando Health.  

“One of the highlights of my marketing internship was attending investor meetings with business and community leaders. I also enjoyed working with local businesses and seeing how collaboration helps support the region’s growth and economy,” she said. 

“As I prepare to graduate in May of 2027, I am excited to take the knowledge and experience I got this summer from the CFDC with me in whatever is next! I would like to thank the entire CFDC team for their support, mentorship, and the opportunity to be part of such meaningful work this summer.” 

Alexandra Otremsky  

Alexandra Otremsky joined us for two weeks this summer, primarily creating motion graphics for our social media and website. She is a senior at Harrison School for the Arts in the Motion Picture Arts department. Passionate about writing and making films, Alex is also part of multiple clubs with various leadership positions. Outside of the arts, she’s involved with the school soccer team and plays club volleyball.  

Alex joined the CFDC through Polk County Public Schools’ internship program, a grant-funded initiative that connects students with local businesses. The program provides students with an opportunity to gain experience in a professional setting while exploring careers related to their interests and areas of study.  

My favorite thing I’ve done at CFDC this summer would probably be making reels for the June Investor Meeting.

Alexandra Otremsky

“I wanted to do this internship because Polk County Public Schools offered different internships for students in certain career academies, and marketing/social media was one of the options,” she said. 

“My favorite thing I’ve done at CFDC this summer would probably be making reels for the June Investor Meeting,” she shared. 

Looking to the future, Alex is keeping her options open but hopes to stay in Florida.  

“I plan on applying to several colleges around Florida and the country, with top options thus far being Florida State University, the University of Florida, and Florida Southern college. I’d like to major in marketing, film, graphic design, or interior design, but I’m relatively undecided. I’m always open to new opportunities and I like putting myself out there to allow me to succeed now and in the future!”  

Emily Smith 

Emily Smith joined the CFDC for two weeks to support marketing efforts across social media, web design, and printed media. She is a senior at McKeel Academy of Technology. Some of her additional interests include dance, photography, and teaching. 

“This opportunity stood out to me among others because it relates to areas which I have experience in (graphic design, and social media) while also allowing me to explore other areas like marketing, all in a professional setting.”  

When asked what she was most excited about, Emily shared, “I am looking forward to growing my skillset and building connections within the Central Florida Development Council.” 

After high school, Emily plans to attend college to pursue a degree related to journalism and communications.  

Looking to the Future 

Building a strong workforce starts with giving students opportunities to explore careers, develop new skills, and build professional connections. We are grateful to have hosted these three talented interns this summer and to have played a small part in their professional development. 

Their fresh perspectives, creativity, and enthusiasm brought new energy to our team and offered a reminder of the talent and potential being developed right here in Polk County. We look forward to seeing where their experiences and ambitions take them next.