Elevating Charlotte

In this special edition of the Cleared for Takeoff Podcast, Charlotte County business and education leaders come together for a powerful conversation on growth, innovation, and opportunity.Hosted by Kay Tracy, Director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office, this live panel features insights from Dr. Eileen DeLuca (FGCU), Michael Ehrat (HCA Florida Fawcett Hospital), Mark Vianello (Charlotte County Public Schools), and Dr. Chris Westley (FGCU Lutgert College of Business).Together, they discuss the four pillars driving Charlotte County Workforce Development — education alignment, healthcare resilience, innovation, and quality of life — and how collaboration is shaping the region’s next chapter.

Charlotte County Jazz Society at the Heart of Elevate Charlotte

Charlotte County, Florida is a place where creativity, community, and business meet. In the first episode of Elevate Charlotte – Behind the Business, listeners were introduced to Jordan Aquila, President of the Charlotte County Jazz Society and leader of Buffalo Graphics. The conversation explored more than just business—it highlighted the passion behind local arts, the value of community support, and the future of cultural growth in the region.

The Charlotte County Jazz Society stands out as both a nonprofit and a cultural driver. It doesn’t just host concerts; it creates scholarships, connects generations, and fosters a love for music that extends beyond jazz. This podcast episode revealed how one organization continues to make a big impact while showing why Charlotte County is such a special place to live, work, and create.

In this episode of Elevate Charlotte , we sit down with Jordan, Charlotte County’s Economic Development Specialist. Jordan shares insights on how data, property analysis, and developer support play a vital role in shaping the county’s growth. From helping site selectors find the right locations to guiding projects that strengthen our economy, this conversation highlights the behind-the-scenes work driving Charlotte County’s future.

In this episode, we welcome Dr. Brian Granstra, Director of Career and Technical Education, and Kay Tracy, Director of the Charlotte County Economic Development Office, to discuss the intersection of education and economic development in Charlotte County. Discover how their unified approach is creating a talent pipeline for high-paying jobs, benefiting students and businesses alike. Learn about the unique Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs offered, the importance of aligning educational programs with economic needs, and how this collaboration is attracting new businesses to the area.

Explore the success stories of students landing significant roles and the community's involvement in growing and adapting to workforce demands. Dr. Granstra and Kay Tracy share insights into how businesses can partner with schools, the importance of career exploration from middle school, and the strategic initiatives that position Charlotte County as a leader in workforce development. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in educational innovation and regional economic advancement.

New Podcast Episode Drop: Hurricane Preparedness—Business Edition

What’s your plan when the next storm hits?

In our latest Elevate Charlotte episode, host Maria Vastola brings together voices from SBDC at FGCU, Charlotte County Emergency Management, Florida Commerce, CareerSource SWFL, United Way, and local chambers to talk about hurricane readiness—and why it’s a team effort.

From emergency loans to workforce recovery and community coordination, this episode is packed with real strategies and resources your business can act on today.

🎧 Listen now: [Insert link to podcast or cleared4takeoff.com podcast page]

📍 Learn how to protect your team, your business, and your future.

#Cleared4Takeoff #ChooseCharlotteFL #DisasterPreparedness #HurricaneSeason #BusinessResilience #CharlotteCountyFL #EmergencyManagement #ElevateCharlotte

Florida isn’t just planning for the future of work—it’s building it now. In this solo episode of Elevate Charlotte, Maria Vastola shares key takeaways from the 2025 Learners to Earners Workforce Summit hosted by the Florida Chamber Foundation. From third-grade literacy to stackable credentials, from childcare access to AI-driven job forecasting, discover how Florida is flipping the script on workforce development—and what it means for the future of Charlotte County.

In this episode of Elevate Charlotte, we’re taking you inside SOF Week in Tampa with our very own Mark Odell, Business Retention & Expansion Manager, and Kristy Sisler, Strategic Engagement Specialist. Together, they represent Charlotte County’s bold approach to supporting our veterans, growing defense-aligned businesses, and forging partnerships that matter.

Mark and Kristy share what it was like connecting with elite Special Operations leaders, innovative defense contractors, and veteran entrepreneurs. You'll hear:

• Why Charlotte County is doubling down on veteran workforce development
• How our region is uniquely positioned to support defense, aerospace, and manufacturing industries
• Firsthand stories from the expo floor
• The real value of showing up where decisions are made

Plus, we wrap it all up with a few laughs and a sneak peek into what’s coming next.

🔗 Whether you're a veteran, business leader, or economic development nerd, this one’s for you.

In this episode of Elevating Charlotte, we’re excited to introduce Kristy Sisler, one of the newest faces on the Charlotte County Economic Development team. Kristy shares her journey into economic development, her first impressions of Charlotte County, and what excites her most about helping businesses grow in our community.

We’ll also dive into Kristy's recent trip to MRO Americas 2025 in Atlanta — one of the largest aviation and aerospace shows in the country. She gives us an insider’s look at the major trends shaping the future of the industry, how those trends tie back to opportunities here at home, and why now is such a pivotal time for growth and investment in Charlotte County.

Whether you’re a local business owner, a site selector, or just curious about how Charlotte County is making moves in major industries, this conversation offers fresh insight and inspiration.

Tune in to hear:

• What it’s like stepping into economic development during a season of big momentum
• Key takeaways from MRO Americas 2025
• Why Charlotte County’s future is full of opportunity

Subscribe, share, and stay connected as we continue to Elevate Charlotte!

Discover why Charlotte County, FL is becoming the next big move for manufacturers seeking location advantages, faster permitting, and real business support. Tune in to the latest episode of Elevating Charlotte to learn how we’re helping businesses take off.

Thinking about relocating your manufacturing business? In this episode of Elevating Charlotte, discover why Charlotte County, Florida, is quickly becoming the go-to destination for manufacturers seeking space to grow, faster timelines, and unmatched support.