Destination Graduation: Building a 21st Century Workforce

Rick Weddle, President, Orlando Economic Development Commission

In September 2015, the Central Florida College Access Network and Heart of Florida United Way hosted Destination Graduation: Building a 21st Century Workforce, a convening to discuss how to develop a workforce that will meet the demands of the evolving Central Florida economy.

Over 140 business leaders and elected officials were gathered to develop solutions and strategies to close the gap and drive postsecondary attainment in the region – and reach Goal 2025. Speakers included Congressman Daniel Webster, SunTrust Foundation President David Fuller, Hispanic Chamber of Commerce President Diana Bolivar, and Helios Education Foundation President and CEO Paul Luna.

Through presentations by Rick Weddle, president of the Orlando Economic Development Commission and Troy Miller, associate director for research & policy with the Florida College Access Network, as well as testimony from recent graduates moderated by Braulio Colon, Vice President and Program Director for Postsecondary Completion at Helios Education Foundation, the event  made a profound impact on attainment and workforce success in Central Florida.​