In this episode of Elevate Charlotte, Mark Odell and Maria Vastola explore how businesses are planning for growth in an environment defined by uncertainty. From shifting supply chains and changing cost structures to workforce availability and long-term site selection decisions, the conversation focuses on how companies are adapting without overreacting.

Rather than predicting policy outcomes, this episode examines how flexibility, resilience, and strong fundamentals are shaping modern growth strategies—and what communities can do to remain competitive as conditions continue to evolve.

This episode dives into the real, unfiltered conversations from the FGCU Regional Workforce Roundtable. Powered by Elevate Charlotte, the discussion covers bold new strategies in data-driven education, work-based learning, early childhood readiness, adult workforce access, and regional collaboration. These five takeaways aren’t just ideas — they’re action plans for transforming how Southwest Florida grows, trains, and retains its talent.

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.