Watching capital projects come to fruition excites James Slaton, City Manager of Lake Wales. The southeast Polk County community has grown from 16,361 in the 2020 Census to an estimated 17,798 in 2024. “We have always been the Crown Jewel, but now others are experiencing our secret sauce,” said City Manager James Slaton. Slaton has […]
Webber International University officially launched its centennial celebration during its annual Alumni Weekend held on October 4, 2025. The festivities marked the beginning of a multi-year celebration leading up to the university’s 100th anniversary in 2027. Prepared and published by Webber International University. Founded by the Babson family on April 6, 1927, Webber International University […]
When Charles Freed and Mark Stephens wanted to provide more personalized service to their clients, they decided there was only one way to accomplish that goal. They decided to start their own engineering and environmental services consulting company. “The vision in starting The Colinas Group (TCG) was our availability to personally work on projects. To […]
CPS Investment Advisors continues to expand adding new employees and promoting one to president – all so it can remain committed to providing the best customer service possible to its clients. The company celebrated its 50th anniversary in July 2025. After the passing of its founder, Chas Smith, 10 years ago, Peter Golotko took over […]
Observed annually on first Friday of October, Manufacturing Day celebrates the industry’s impact across the nation – and nowhere is that impact more evident than in Polk County, FL. Polk leads the way, offering the blueprint for success for manufacturers. Why is Polk a prime location for manufacturing companies? Consider a few factors: Add in […]
Two longtime companies that keep our residents healthy and employed received the Central Florida Development Council’s top awards at its 2025 Annual Meeting. Lakeland Regional Health earned the 2025 George W. Harris Jr. Economic Development Award for Success in Large Business. CareerSource Polk received the 2025 Jim Brantley Economic Development Award for Success in Small […]
When Gene Conrad moved to Polk County, he took on the challenge to expand Lakeland Linder International Airport. He met that challenge and more. Then, he moved to his current role as President & CEO of the Aerospace Center for Excellence & SUN ‘n FUN Aerospace Expo. In between, he joined the Central Florida Development […]
Randy Knapp has spent almost his entire life building relationships, successful business and creative ventures in Polk County. He put this all to use while serving on the board of the Central Florida Development Council. Now, after six years as a board member, Knapp’s time has come to an end. We celebrate his service along […]
Deena Drumgo, Assistant City Manager for the City of Lake Wales, has served on the CFDC Board of Directors for six years. She’s served as both a board member and Chair of the Community Stakeholders Committee in more recent years. As Drumgo’s time on the board comes to an end, the CFDC will forever be […]
With more than 33 years at Nucor Steel Florida, Drew Wilcox has been nicknamed The Man of Steel. He has served six years on the Central Florida Development Council’s board of directors. As Wilcox and fellow board members Deena Drumgo, Gene Conrad and Randy Knapp’s terms end, The Man of Steel, much like Superman, has […]