This Week's Latest Tech News in Lakeland, FL - Sunday April 13th 2025 Edition

Lakeland's tech scene is absolutely crushing it in 2025, with the industry contributing $200 million to Polk County's GDP and creating over 4,000 jobs with sweet salaries averaging $75K—way above the regional norm of $42K. The city's latest move is a game-changing partnership between Florida Poly and Catapult, giving students access to a 10,000-square-foot makerspace and serious entrepreneurship opportunities.

Plus, Publix is going all-in with a $121 million investment in their new IT campus, adding another 500 tech jobs to the mix.

The tech hub that opened in March is already home to 35 startups, and Lakeland Electric's smart grid initiative is totally revolutionizing how we handle energy in the city.

With major players focusing on cybersecurity, healthtech, and agtech, and a projected 20% increase in startups by 2024, Lakeland is definitely becoming Florida's next big tech hotspot.

The best part? Tech bootcamps like Nucamp are making it super accessible to jump into this booming industry, with programs starting at just $458.

On April 2nd, 2025, Lakeland's Tech Summit will kick off the grand opening of the city's innovative Tech Hub.

Located at Catapult Lakeland, this 45,000-square-foot facility is designed to be a game-changer for the local tech scene. The hub features state-of-the-art innovation labs, collaborative workspaces, and an impressive event center that can accommodate major tech gatherings.

According to projections from recent economic studies, the facility is expected to generate over 1,200 new jobs and drive an economic impact exceeding $127 million.

The Tech Hub's strategic location complements the city's growing tech ecosystem, which includes Florida Polytechnic University's new Citrus Innovation Center and several other major development projects.

The facility offers essential resources for entrepreneurs, including 3D printing capabilities, robotics labs, and dedicated spaces for tech startups.

With features like innovation labs, classrooms, and conference rooms, the Tech Hub is positioned to become the epicenter of Lakeland's digital transformation, providing both established companies and emerging startups with the tools they need to thrive in today's tech-driven economy.

The project represents a significant step in Lakeland's evolution into a major tech destination in Central Florida, offering opportunities for collaboration, innovation, and economic growth in the region.

Lakeland Electric's Smart Grid Initiative is making waves in 2025, especially with their innovative Myrtlebrook microgrid project that aimed to create a self-sustaining community of 77 homes.

While the original microgrid project faced setbacks due to equipment supplier issues, Lakeland Electric continues to push forward with smart grid innovations.

• Smart Grid Implementation: The utility has successfully implemented digital meters that enable real-time monitoring and faster outage detection across their service area.
• Cost Efficiency: Recent data shows that customer costs have decreased, with base charges remaining stable at $69.24 and fuel charges dropping to $41.50 per 1,000 kWh.
• Enhanced Customer Service: The smart grid technology has particularly impressed customers with its ability to provide detailed usage data and automated meter readings, eliminating the need for manual inspections except every 2-3 years.

Looking ahead, Lakeland Electric faces new challenges with their McIntosh Unit 5 approaching end-of-life in 2030, but they're actively exploring innovative solutions including expanded solar options and power purchase agreements.

The utility maintains its commitment to power generation independence while embracing smart grid capabilities that allow for better load management and customer service.

Their streamlined solar panel permitting process and ongoing exploration of renewable energy integration demonstrate their dedication to building a more sustainable and efficient power network for Lakeland residents.

Publix's groundbreaking supply chain transformation is taking shape through end-to-end optimization and cutting-edge AI technologies.

The supermarket chain, operating across the southeastern United States, is revolutionizing its operations by implementing advanced AI solutions, with GenAI projected to unlock between $240 billion to $390 billion in economic value for retailers.

The company's tech evolution includes creating scalable AI platforms and frameworks to enhance everything from demand forecasting to inventory management.

This initiative combines traditional AI tools like regression analysis and machine learning with newer GenAI capabilities, enabling dynamic restocking strategies and real-time operational adjustments.

• Data Analysis: The system analyzes vast datasets to predict consumer demand patterns, helping reduce waste by optimizing stock levels and improving delivery timing.
• Supply Chain Efficiency: Through automated order-replenishment and supplier performance tracking across 19 key areas, including order accuracy and delivery timing, Publix is streamlining its entire supply chain network.
• Cost Reduction: Early results show potential for reducing operational costs by up to 40% in certain areas, such as energy consumption, while significantly improving product availability and freshness for customers.

The implementation of these AI solutions represents a major step forward in grocery retail technology, positioning Publix at the forefront of supply chain innovation.

The company's commitment to this digital transformation extends beyond mere efficiency gains, incorporating sustainability goals and enhanced customer experience into its strategic vision.

This week, Lakeland's tech education scene gets a major boost with a $290,000 Choose Ohio First grant dedicated to developing STEM talent.

The funding, targeted at IT and computer science programs, aims to support 50 students over five years, starting Fall 2024.

• Scholarship Opportunities Expanded: Lakeland Community College has expanded its scholarship opportunities to include merit-based awards up to $5,000 per year for new students.
• Creating Pathways to Jobs: The college isn't just throwing money at the problem - they're creating real pathways to jobs through hands-on learning experiences.
• High School Tech Program: The program, "ITCS College Ready Now," is giving high school students a head start with foundational tech skills before they even hit college.
• Scholarship Eligibility for IT Programs: All IT and computer science programs are now eligible for these scholarships, with minimum awards of $1,500 per student.

Students can apply in areas like application programming, cybersecurity, data analytics, and web development.

The initiative focuses on bringing more diverse talent into tech, especially targeting students from Lake, Ashtabula, Geauga, and Eastern Cuyahoga counties.

To stay competitive, students need to maintain a 3.0 GPA and participate in work-based learning experiences.

This investment in local tech education isn't just about getting more people into coding - it's about creating a pipeline of skilled tech professionals who can hit the ground running in high-growth jobs right here in Lakeland.

For students looking to break into tech, this is the perfect time to take advantage of these opportunities and be part of Lakeland's growing tech scene.

The Polk State Corporate College is leading the charge in tech education and workforce development through its innovative 2025 Regional Tech Conference.

The event, scheduled for April 21-23, brings together tech enthusiasts, entrepreneurs, and industry professionals at Polk State's advanced technology facilities.

Building on the success of previous regional conferences, this year's program features specialized tracks in artificial intelligence, blockchain technology, IoT innovations, and cybersecurity fundamentals.

The Business Information Technology program at Polk State will showcase how students analyze complex business challenges and implement intelligence solutions, demonstrating the practical applications of emerging technologies.

Conference highlights include:

• Hands-on workshops: The IT/Computer Institute will host interactive sessions allowing participants to engage with emerging technologies.
• Smart manufacturing demonstrations: Attendees can witness cutting-edge industrial automation processes in action.
• Networking sessions: Connect with industry leaders to explore new opportunities and collaborations.

The Tech Expo portion will feature exhibitions from 50+ companies, spotlighting the latest innovations in business intelligence systems and cybersecurity solutions.

Special focus will be given to workforce training and skills development, reflecting Polk State's commitment to enhancing regional tech capabilities. The conference serves as a vital platform for knowledge exchange and professional growth in Central Florida's expanding tech sector.

Lakeland is experiencing a major tech transformation in 2025, with companies like Publix Super Markets investing $121 million in their new IT campus, which currently employs 1,200 tech professionals.

The city's tech sector is contributing $200 million to Polk County's GDP and supporting over 4,000 tech roles. Local job growth is outpacing national averages at 14.6%, with 29 different tech services and industries now represented in the area.

The expansion includes innovative players like Coastal Cloud, which has completed over 7,390 projects and holds 2,860 certifications. Major developments are popping up across Lakeland, including new retail spaces and entertainment venues that make the city more attractive to young tech talent.

• Competitive salaries are offered by companies, averaging $75,000, with some specialized roles commanding up to $130,000.
• Flexible work culture is embraced, with many firms adopting hybrid schedules and focusing on work-life balance.

Tech specializations in cybersecurity, AgTech, and healthcare tech are particularly hot right now, and there's a growing startup scene with over 50 new companies contributing $120 million to the local economy.

The city's strategic location between Tampa and Orlando, combined with a lower cost of living and strong community support, makes it an ideal spot for tech professionals looking to build their careers while enjoying Florida's lifestyle benefits.

Lakeland's emergence as a tech hub showcases the power of strategic collaboration, with local startups and established companies contributing $200 million to Polk County's GDP.

The initiative has already created 1,600 tech jobs, with projections indicating a 20% increase in tech startups by 2024. Leading this transformation is Publix, which has committed $121 million to develop a downtown technology campus, creating 200 new IT positions with average salaries of $103,176.

The tech ecosystem is further strengthened by organizations like Catapult Lakeland, providing essential mentorship and networking opportunities for emerging entrepreneurs.

The city's strategic location and affordable living costs have attracted diverse tech companies, with over 4,000 workers now employed in the software and IT sector.

This growth spans multiple domains including cybersecurity, AgTech, and HealthTech, creating a robust foundation for continued expansion. Notable success stories include QVIMediaLink, which secured $3 million in funding and plans to create 50 high-paying jobs by 2025.

The multiplier effect is significant - for every tech job created, an additional 3.5 jobs are generated in other sectors, demonstrating the broad economic impact of this initiative.

Local educational institutions have also joined forces with industry partners, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled professionals ready to meet the growing demand for tech talent.

In a significant shift for Lakeland's energy landscape, Lakeland Electric's microgrid pilot project was initially set to revolutionize renewable energy integration.

The project, planned for the Myrtlebrook development, would have featured 77 homes equipped with rooftop solar panels and battery storage systems. However, recent developments have led to the project's termination due to political and economic challenges, including new tariffs that impacted the viability of the development.

• Energy Strategy Adaptation: Despite this setback, Lakeland Electric continues to adapt its energy strategy, with consumer-friendly initiatives reducing fuel charges to $41.50 per 1,000 kWh starting January 2025.
• Commitment to Modernization: The utility maintains its commitment to grid modernization and renewable energy integration, focusing on cost-effective solutions that benefit both the environment and consumers.

Current rates for residential customers average $110.74 per 1,000 kWh, reflecting Lakeland Electric's efforts to balance sustainability with affordability.

While the Myrtlebrook microgrid project won't proceed as planned, the $1.27 million refund will enable the utility to explore alternative approaches to renewable energy integration.

The experience has provided valuable insights for future smart grid initiatives, as Lakeland Electric continues to evaluate innovative solutions for sustainable power generation and distribution.

Publix is revolutionizing its supply chain operations through strategic implementation of machine learning and AI technologies. Their partnership with Manugistics has established a foundation for enhanced store-level replenishment across their 801 locations.

The supermarket chain's recent initiatives focus on optimizing both front-end and back-end operations, with particular emphasis on data synchronization and supplier transparency.

Their new password-managed supplier portal enables manufacturers to access item forecasts and procurement information in real-time, while sophisticated performance scorecards track vendor metrics across 19 key areas.

The implementation of automated order-replenishment systems and advanced AI algorithms has significantly improved inventory management and demand forecasting accuracy.

This data-driven approach has streamlined operations, reducing costs while maintaining product freshness and availability. The system continuously analyzes regional market trends and sales data to optimize distribution patterns, ensuring stores maintain optimal stock levels.

These technological advancements have positioned Publix at the forefront of retail innovation, demonstrating how traditional supermarket chains can successfully integrate modern technology to enhance operational efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Their focus on supplier performance metrics and real-time data analysis has created a more responsive and agile supply chain network, capable of quickly adapting to changing market conditions and consumer demands.

Lakeland's transformation into a tech powerhouse is heating up in 2025, with the tech sector contributing a massive $200 million to Polk County's GDP and supporting over 4,000 tech roles.

The game-changer this year is Publix's $121 million investment in their downtown technology campus, which is set to create hundreds of IT positions with average salaries hitting $130,000.

The tech scene is growing at an impressive 14.6% rate, way faster than national averages, with over 50 startups adding $120 million to the local economy. Major focus areas include cybersecurity, AgTech, and healthcare tech solutions.

The city's growth is further amplified by strategic developments along Memorial Boulevard, designed to attract new investments and boost local business opportunities.

Workplace flexibility is becoming the norm, with companies like Publix offering hybrid schedules and competitive benefits. This surge in tech activity isn't just creating jobs - it's reshaping Lakeland into a modern tech hub while maintaining its affordability compared to larger cities.

The combination of established companies expanding their tech presence and new startups entering the market is creating a diverse and dynamic tech ecosystem that's attracting talent from across the country.

Lakeland's tech scene is experiencing a major glow-up in 2025, with the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area's high-tech GDP growing by 63% since 2018.

The city is seriously upping its game with a mix of healthcare tech, education innovation, and cutting-edge transportation developments. One of the biggest moves is the Publix IT expansion, which is bringing 500 new tech jobs and investing $121 million into the local economy.

The average tech salary here is hitting $75,000 - way above the regional average of $42,000.

The city is becoming this perfect spot for tech innovation.

Florida Poly just partnered with Catapult Lakeland, giving students access to a 10,000-square-foot makerspace and creating this awesome ecosystem for startups.

We're seeing everything from healthcare innovations like robotic surgery tech at Lakeland Regional Health to cutting-edge agricultural AI solutions at EZ Ag Innovations.

The SunTrax testing facility is doing some mind-blowing work with autonomous vehicles, while Florida Poly's professors are developing wearable tech for medical applications.

The city is definitely becoming a tech hotspot, with a 14.6% job growth rate and a 20% increase in startups predicted by 2024.

Between the new tech incubators, expanding companies, and focus on emerging fields like cybersecurity and healthtech, Lakeland is transforming into this vibrant tech hub that's drawing talent from all over.

The future's looking bright with more developments on the horizon, including the Central Florida Innovation District and new solar-powered communities. It's pretty awesome to see my hometown turning into such a dynamic tech scene.