blueprint for success

With access to an unrivaled distribution network and extensive multimodal infrastructure, manufacturing businesses are poised for success in Polk County.

Manufacturing employs over 20,100 people in Polk County and in 2026 generated $4.1 billion in GDP. It’s part of a growing industry: more than 27,000 manufacturers call Florida home, employing over 451,000 workers.

Kate Bernthal

Senior Business Development Specialist

11.3%

Industry Share of Total GDP

9.8% in the Nation

4.8%

Avg Annual % Change
Last 10 Years

3.8% in the Nation

$770K

Output per Worker

$714K in the Nation

Leading Education Programs

With seven institutions of higher learning, as well as top tier vocational schools and technical colleges, Polk County’s next-generation talent is ever-growing and uniquely trained for success

Polk State College

Polk State College’s Advanced Manufacturing Institute is home to the award-winning Mosaic EIA (Electrical, Instrumentation, and Automation) and Mechanic/Millwright Apprenticeship Programs. From Industrial instrumentation to process control and automation, students graduate with the skills and experience necessary to find success in this thriving industry.

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Florida Polytechnic University

Florida Poly offers a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering, providing a comprehensive curriculum grounded in foundational mathematics and physics. The Materials and Advanced Manufacturing concentration focuses on engineering composite materials with unique capabilities that improve safety, efficiency, and versatility. Florida Poly programs focus on tech-enabled manufacturing.

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Featured Project

Nucor Builds Steel Micro Mill in Polk County

Nucor Steel, the largest steel company in the U.S., announced its plans to build a 256,000-square-foot micro-mill on approximately 440 acres in Frostproof. Polk County competed with South Carolina for the $240 million project which will employ 250.

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Featured Employers

Advanced + Tech-Enabled Manufacturing Advocacy

The Manufacturing and Supply Chain Alliance has supported and promoted local manufacturing for over a decade. It works with the Polk Legislative Delegation to influence legislation and helps its members apply for millions of dollars in grants to train employees or upgrade their skills, among other things. It’s just one more resource for local manufacturers to turn to for help in a county that’s ripe for continued growth in the manufacturing sector.

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FEATURED PROPERTY

Fort Meade Rail-Ready Industrial Site

The Fort Meade Rail-Ready Industrial Site, recently recognized as a CSX Select Site Silver-designated property, offers manufacturers an investment-ready opportunity with direct rail access and strategic connectivity to Central Florida markets.