News

AgriPolk: Polk State Launches New Pathway to Careers in Agriculture

October 27, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk State College has launched an initiative to connect students ripe with passion for agriculture to higher education and workforce training that will lead to rewarding careers. Prepared and published by Polk State College. AgriPolk combines the transferable Associate in Arts (AA) degree with specialized coursework, hands-on learning and certification opportunities. It will ensure a […]

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Webber International University Kicks Off Centennial Celebration During Alumni Weekend

October 22, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

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 […]

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ACE, Polk County Public Schools, Polk State College, Others Keep Aviation Talent Pipeline Flowing

August 21, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Aviation is one of the leading industries in Polk County. Its footprint continues to grow as a variety of institutions within the community offer training programs for the next generation of workers. “Polk County is becoming a national model for aviation education. With innovative programs, strategic partnerships and a commitment to hands-on learning, the district […]

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Polk County Public Schools Improve District Grade

July 23, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Frederick Heid has been at the top for four years. During this time, he has led the charge to improve the district’s annual grade back to a B. Using data, coupled with understanding, has resulted in the district improving to a B for the 2024-25 school year.  Polk County Public […]

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Opportunity Grows in Polk- And So Does Talent

June 16, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk County’s long agricultural history remains a point of pride. But, today’s landowners are increasingly exploring new opportunities for growth and reinvestment. Traditional farming models are shifting due to technology, climate and market dynamics. Many are reimagining what the future of their land could look like – and CFDC is here to help offer opportunities.   […]

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Polk County’s Higher Education Institutions Fuel Talent Pipeline for Agriculture Industry

May 15, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk County is cultivating a robust pipeline of qualified talent to support its vital and evolving agricultural sector. This is greatly in thanks to strong partnerships between higher education and industry. Prepared by the CFDC and published by the Central Florida Media Group in Central Florida Ag News. At the forefront is Warner University in […]

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Florida Poly, Catapult Partnership Aims to Drive Innovation, Student Success

February 10, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Florida Polytechnic University and Lakeland’s Catapult have partnered to enhance each group’s ability to shape innovation in Polk County.   “Our partnership with Catapult represents a pivotal milestone in advancing economic development in Polk County and Central Florida. By bringing Florida Poly’s high-skill students, world-class faculty and top-tier rankings to the table, alongside Catapult’s innovative resources […]

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Polk County Public Schools Hosts School Choice Showcase Events to Highlight Special Offerings

January 28, 2025 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk County Public Schools (PCPS) is holding a series of meetings to help inform parents and students about their educational opportunities.  “Our School Choice Showcase offers parents a chance to connect with school staff and students from across the district to learn about the various programs we offer,” said Leann Bennett, Senior Director of Career, […]

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Polk State College One of 3 State Institutions to Offer Online Courses Nationwide at Affordable Price Through XploreFLEd

November 14, 2024 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk State College is going nationwide as part of the XploreFLEd pilot program. They will offer online courses in high-demand careers at an inexpensive price.  The college is one of three in Florida to offer select online courses for out-of-state students at a reduced cost. Alongside Miami Dade and Tallahassee State colleges, students will have […]

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Educational Opportunities Abound for Careers in Polk Aviation

August 22, 2024 News, Talent Pipeline

Polk County’s four airports continue to grow to keep up with everything from cargo and commerical airlines to flight schools and recreational activities. Three educational institutions- Polk County Public Schools, Polk State College, and Southeastern University- are supplying local talent to work as pilots, mechanics, managers and more.  “The fact that we have so many […]

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