A strong local economy isn’t established overnight – it is built over time, shaped by the investments a community makes in its people, businesses, and infrastructure. One of the most powerful ways to cultivate economic growth is by strengthening our local schools. In Hardee County, our schools play a vital role in preparing students for future success, ensuring that the next generation has opportunities to stay, work, and thrive in their hometown. Through partnerships, workforce development programs, and a strong athletic culture, our schools are laying the foundation for a vibrant economy.
Education & Economic Development Go Hand-in-Hand
When businesses consider expanding into a community, one of the first things they assess is the strength of the local workforce. Are there skilled workers available? Do young people have access to education and training that align with industry needs? In Hardee County, we are fortunate to have a forward-thinking approach to these questions, thanks in large part to our partnerships with South Florida State College (SFSC).
Denise Grimsley, CEO of The Development Group, serves on the Board of Trustees at SFSC, where she helps guide decisions that align education with economic opportunity. One major initiative currently underway is the Multi-Purpose Facility, a collaborative project between SFSC and The Development Group that will provide a space for education, training, and community engagement. This type of investment ensures that our students have the resources they need to build careers without having to leave the area.
Strengthening Workforce Readiness
Another key factor in creating a thriving economy is workforce readiness. Many students graduate high school uncertain about their career path, but certification programs provide them with valuable, in-demand skills that can lead to high-paying jobs. Hardee High School has taken great strides in offering career and technical education (CTE) programs in fields such as:
- Business & Technology: AI, WordPress, and Coding
- Agriculture: Agritechnology, Ecology, and Conservation
- Culinary: Students are about to earn their ServSafe Certification
- Health Sciences: CNA, Phlebotomy, EKG Tech
- Trades & Construction: Auto Mechanics, Welding, and Carpentry
- Creative Arts: Adobe certification in design, video, and animation
South Florida State College has Corporate Education Training, which has more to do with trades and certifications. Some fields that they offer are:
- CDL, Transportation, and Logistics
- Construction and Utility Trades
- Health and Public Safety
- MSHA New Miner and Refresher Training
- Professional Development for Educators
- Real Estate
- Welding, Advanced Manufacturing, and Industrial Trades
- Fiber Optic Technician
- Insurance Agent Training
SFSC also provides countless online certification courses with Ed2Go.
The Role of Athletics in Economic and Community Development
Athletics are often seen as extracurricular, but their impact extends far beyond the field. At The Development Group, we recognize that strong high school athletics programs lead to greater school pride and community engagement, which in turn influences economic development.
Each month, we host an Athletic Focus Group at our office, bringing together coaches and community leaders to discuss ways to improve high school sports programs. Investing in athletics provides young athletes with discipline, leadership skills, and a sense of belonging. For some students, a dedicated coach may become a life mentor who can be the difference between them dropping out and finding a successful path forward. When sports are celebrated, students outside of athletics attend the games, dress up for school spirit themes, which leads to them making fond memories tied to our county.
When high school sports thrive, so does the local economy. Successful teams bring in spectators, boost local businesses on game nights, and create a sense of identity for the community. More importantly, student-athletes develop qualities that make them strong candidates for future employment, whether in or beyond Hardee County.
Building a Community Where Kids Can Stay and Succeed
One of the most critical aspects of economic development is ensuring that young people have reasons to stay in their hometown. A thriving economy isn’t just about attracting businesses—it’s about creating an environment where people want to live, work, and raise their families.
By strengthening our schools, expanding workforce training programs, and investing in athletics, we are laying the groundwork for a future where Hardee County students don’t have to leave to find success. Instead, they can build careers, start businesses, and contribute to the local economy right here at home.
