Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Fred Heid joins Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg to talk about education, workforce development, career pathways, and the growing connection between schools and local businesses. From 3DE and skilled trades to mentorship and entrepreneurship, the conversation explores how Polk County can create more opportunities for students by helping them see what’s possible right here at home.
What happens when education, business, and opportunity truly connect?
In this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg sit down with Polk County Public Schools Superintendent Fred Heid to talk about the future of education and workforce development in Polk County.
The conversation explores how PCPS is creating stronger connections between students and the real world through career and technical education, workforce partnerships, 3DE, mentorship, entrepreneurship, and exposure to opportunities beyond the traditional college pathway.
Fred also shares why partnerships with local businesses matter, how employers can play a role in preparing the next generation, and why helping students understand the opportunities available right here in Polk County is critical to our community’s future.
We talk about:
✔ Workforce development and career readiness
✔ Career and technical education and skilled trades
✔ 3DE and real-world learning experiences
✔ Business mentorship and community partnerships
✔ Entrepreneurship as a pathway for students
✔ Connecting education, business, and economic opportunity in Polk County
If Polk County wants to become a true land of opportunity, it starts with making sure the next generation can see the possibilities — and has a pathway to reach them.
🎙️ ElevatePolk is hosted by Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg and explores the people, ideas, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of Polk County, Florida.