As manufacturing continues to play a key role in diversifying Polk County’s economy, it’s clear that education is a vital component to ensuring a workforce that is trained to handle jobs that have changed considerably in the last 20 years. Florida Polytechnic University, Polk State College, Florida Southern College and Southeastern University are all important […]
As the world moves beyond boundaries and becomes more and more global, educating our students to do business internationally is a key component in college classes. Educating Spanish-speaking residents is just as important. That’s why Teresa Martinez, executive editor of Viva Polk magazine and member of the Polk State College District Board of Trustees, asked […]
Two local colleges are teaming up to provide students with degrees that will allow them to enter STEM-related fields with high-level business acumen. Florida Polytechnic University students will have a chance to continue their education for one year at Florida Southern College to earn a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA). The public-private partnership will save […]
CareerSource Polk is offering a wide range of programs to help adults gain skills that make them more marketable in today’s workplace and to assist businesses re-train and retain employees. Chrissanne Long, CEO of Maximize Digital Media, recently learned of the programs, which she said every small business owner should consider. “We have had great […]
With a focus squarely on high school seniors, Polk County Public Schools increased its graduation rate to a record high of 86.5%, up from 81.2% in 2019. There were many achievements to celebrate along with the overall increase: The graduation rate has increased almost 15% over the last five years. The rate at the county’s […]
Nothing proved the adaptability of Polk County’s higher education institutions quite like 2020. When the coronavirus pandemic moved schools all over the country to close their doors in March, colleges quickly transitioned to online classes and many other changes. As 2021 begins, the presidents of six education institutions in Polk County already have plans in […]
Health systems engineering is the wave of the future — one that will help increase access to medical care, introduce efficiencies and improve patient care — and Florida Polytechnic University is once again on the cutting edge. The university is starting a new undergraduate concentration in health systems engineering (HSE), combining the STEM discipline Florida […]
Florida Polytechnic University is breaking new ground, preparing students to enter the U.S. Navy in fields that put their STEM degrees to good use — all surrounding nuclear propulsion. “Motivated students coming out of high school not only need to be made aware of these career programs but need to be mentored, trained and engaged […]
CareerSource Polk is hosting a Veterans & Community Virtual Job Fair from 9 am to noon on Thursday, November 19 to connect job seekers with more than 25 companies that are eager to hire Polk County residents. CareerSource Polk, which oversees the state and federal funds dedicated to preparing and upgrading a skilled workforce, has […]
Students entering grades 6 through 10 in the 2021 – 2022 school year have the opportunity to begin thinking about their future now, especially if they want to attend a specialized school or career academy. Open enrollment for both runs from Nov. 10 through Jan. 12. Thirty of the county’s career academies have been recognized […]