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.