May Cleared for Take Off Monthly Newsletter
June 3rd, 2026
Welcome to June
Charlotte County Momentum Continues
May brought strong momentum across Charlotte County, with continued progress in workforce development, business support, aviation, entrepreneurship, and quality of place. This month’s Cleared for Takeoff highlights the partnerships, programs, local businesses, and community investments helping shape a stronger economic future. From student career pathways and aviation workforce awareness to small business recognition, airport connectivity, and regional growth, each story reflects the people and projects moving Charlotte County forward.
Business & Site Development
Bayshore Village Investment Adds Momentum to Regional Growth
Bayshore Village’s $12.7 million investment adds to the growth momentum taking shape across Florida’s Gulf Coast. Projects like this help show why businesses, developers, and residents continue looking at Southwest Florida for long-term opportunity. Regional investment strengthens market confidence, supports quality of place, and reinforces the importance of communities that offer room to grow, access to talent, and a strong business environment.
Photo Courtesy of Florida Today
Charlotte County Economic Development Receives FEDC Marketing Award
Charlotte County Economic Development earned a 2026 FEDC Innovation in Marketing Award at FEDC Ignite 2026. The recognition reflects the office’s work to elevate Charlotte County’s story and promote the community’s business climate, workforce initiatives, and long-term economic opportunity. Strategic communication is part of economic development because it helps businesses, workforce partners, site selectors, and residents understand what Charlotte County offers and why the county is positioned for continued growth.
Economic Development Week Recognizes Local Partnership and Progress
Economic Development Week recognized the partnerships that support business growth, workforce development, and community prosperity in Charlotte County. Commissioner Constance presented the proclamation alongside local partners, including chambers, schools, SCORE, and community organizations that contribute to the county’s economic development ecosystem. Business success depends on collaboration, shared resources, and a community focused on long-term opportunity. The recognition highlighted the connected work behind Charlotte County’s continued economic momentum.
New Allegiant Route Expands Punta Gorda Airport Access
Allegiant’s new Punta Gorda to La Crosse, Wisconsin route adds another direct Midwest connection for the region. Service is scheduled to begin October 1, 2026. Expanded air access matters because it supports visitor movement, resident connectivity, business travel, and workforce attraction. Punta Gorda Airport remains one of Charlotte County’s most important economic assets, helping connect the community to more people, markets, and opportunities.
Image Courtesy of Allegiant
Allegiant and Sun Country Merger Strengthens Travel Network
The completed Allegiant and Sun Country merger strengthens a leisure-focused travel network serving small and mid-sized markets. For Charlotte County, air service directly affects business access, visitor movement, workforce attraction, and quality of place. Stronger aviation connectivity supports the broader economic development story by improving access for residents, employers, visitors, and talent. Continued network growth helps position the county for long-term business and workforce opportunities.
Image Courtesy of AllegiantBabcock Ranch Sales Reflect Workforce Attraction Momentum
Babcock Ranch’s strong spring home sales add to Charlotte County’s broader workforce attraction story. Residential growth matters because employers need access to talent, and talent needs places to live. Communities that offer housing, amenities, and a strong quality of place help support business growth. Babcock Ranch continues to play a role in showing why people are choosing to build their futures in Charlotte County.
Charlotte County Recognizes National Small Business Week
National Small Business Week, held May 3 through 9, gave Charlotte County an opportunity to celebrate the small businesses that create jobs, support families, serve residents, and shape the character of the community. Commissioner Doherty presented the proclamation recognizing their role in the local economy. Small businesses are central to Charlotte County’s economic strength, and continued support for entrepreneurs remains important to long-term growth.
Founders Table Brings Entrepreneurs Together in Babcock Ranch
The inaugural Founders Table at Oar & Iron in Babcock Ranch created a new opportunity for founders, entrepreneurs, nonprofit leaders, and community builders to connect. The event focused on conversation, leadership, and shared momentum among people working to grow ideas and organizations in Southwest Florida. Business communities grow stronger through relationships, and events like this help build the networks that support entrepreneurship and long-term economic growth.
Charlotte County Team Connects with Aviation Industry at MRO
Charlotte County’s aviation story was front and center at MRO Americas 2026, with Kristy Sisler, Kay Tracy, and Mark Odell representing the community. The event created opportunities to connect directly with aviation and MRO companies across the industry. These conversations matter because aviation and MRO remain important areas for business recruitment and workforce development. Industry engagement keeps Charlotte County visible to companies evaluating growth opportunities in Florida.
Punta Gorda Airport Growth Supports Regional Business Access
Punta Gorda Airport remains one of Charlotte County’s strongest economic assets. With more than 2.28 million passengers and continued expansion, the airport helps connect the community to more people, places, and opportunities. Air service supports local businesses, tourism, workforce access, and quality of place. For economic development, that connectivity matters because it strengthens the county’s position for business growth, talent attraction, and long-term regional competitiveness.
Workforce Infrastructure and Support Drive Business Growth
Workforce, infrastructure, and business support work together to drive local growth. Companies need more than one advantage when they choose where to start, expand, or invest. They need talent, access, infrastructure, and partners who understand business needs. This message reflects Charlotte County’s broader economic development strategy: create the conditions that help employers succeed while supporting workers, residents, and long-term opportunity across the community.
Charlotte County Foundation Supports Business Startup and Growth
Charlotte County’s business growth story is supported by workforce training, expanding infrastructure, and strong local partnerships. These assets help create a foundation for companies to start, grow, and succeed. Economic development depends on several systems working together, including education, infrastructure, and business support. For Charlotte County, those combined strengths help position the community as a place where employers can find opportunity and build for the future.
Amaze Games and Bloom Recognized as Regional Finalists
Amaze Games and Bloom Academy were named finalists at the SBDC at FGCU Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, placing Charlotte County organizations among regional businesses and leaders recognized for entrepreneurship, innovation, and impact. Celebrating finalists like these helps elevate local success stories beyond the county line. Their recognition also reinforces the strength of Charlotte County’s entrepreneurial community and the importance of supporting businesses and organizations that are growing here.
Cole Kelly Named Emerging Business of the Year
Cole Kelly of Punta Gorda Adventures earned Emerging Business of the Year at the SBDC at FGCU Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards. The recognition is a strong example of local business momentum and entrepreneurial leadership. Cole’s win helps show how Charlotte County businesses are making an impact across Southwest Florida. Success stories like this reinforce the importance of visibility, support, and continued investment in the county’s small business community.
Prestige Massage Spa Owner Earns Entrepreneur Award Nomination
Barbara Gill, owner of Prestige Massage Spa, earned a nomination for the 2026 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards. Prestige Massage Spa provides customized massage therapy services focused on relaxation, recovery, and overall wellness. The business has also earned Best of Florida Regional Massage Therapist recognition in 2024 and 2025. The nomination gives Charlotte County another local business success story to celebrate and reinforces the role small businesses play in the county’s service economy and community life.
Workforce Development & Education
Charlotte County Schools Strengthen Future Workforce Pathways
Charlotte County Public Schools plays a central role in building the county’s future workforce. Through career and technical education, workforce training, and the Three Es, enrollment, enlistment, and employment, CCPS helps students connect classroom learning to real career options. That matters to local employers, families, and future talent. When students can see opportunity here, they are more likely to build their careers and futures in Charlotte County.
Ashley Turner Named Charlotte County Forty Under Forty Honoree
Ashley Turner’s 40 Under 40 recognition reflects the kind of homegrown talent that strengthens Charlotte County’s future. From Charlotte County Public Schools to emergency public information work, her career shows resilience, service, and local commitment. Her story supports the Careers on the Coast message by showing young professionals that meaningful careers can be built close to home. Charlotte County’s workforce grows stronger when local talent stays, leads, and serves the community.
Lemon Bay Aquaculture Program Connects Students to Careers
Lemon Bay High School’s Aquaculture Program gives students hands-on experience tied to coastal science, environmental systems, water-based industries, and future career opportunities. The program is a strong example of career-connected education in Charlotte County. Students benefit when they can see how local learning connects to real jobs. Programs like this strengthen the talent pipeline and help young people understand the opportunities available in the place they already call home.
Women in Aviation Grant Supports Local Career Awareness
The Women in Aviation Southwest Florida Chapter earned a $2,500 grant through the Charlotte Community Foundation’s competitive grant program, strengthening local efforts to connect students with aviation career pathways. Kay Tracy and Mark Odell attended the celebration, reflecting Charlotte County Economic Development’s continued focus on aviation workforce awareness. As the region’s aviation sector grows, programs like this help future talent see real opportunities close to home.
Jonathan Varner Highlights Veteran Leadership in Charlotte County
Jonathan Varner’s Homefront Heroes story shows how veteran leadership strengthens Charlotte County. His path reflects the opportunity to build a business, raise a family, serve others, and continue leading after military service. Veteran talent is an important part of workforce attraction and community growth. Stories like Jonathan’s help show why people choose to put down roots, contribute locally, and build their futures in Charlotte County.
Leadership Charlotte Explores Local Economy and Manufacturing
Leadership Charlotte’s Local Economy Day gave participants a firsthand look at businesses, organizations, and industries that help drive Charlotte County’s economy. The day included a stop at SuperTrak, where participants saw advanced manufacturing in action. Experiences like this help local leaders better understand employer needs, workforce opportunities, and industry strengths. Stronger awareness builds stronger partnerships around Charlotte County’s long-term economic future.
Leadership Charlotte Discussion Highlights Housing and Infrastructure Issues
Leadership Charlotte’s Local Economy Day included a discussion around housing, workforce, and infrastructure topics that affect Charlotte County’s growth. Mark Odell, Commissioner Truex, and Carla Nix joined the conversation at CDBIA as part of the day’s local economy programming. While the available context is limited, the discussion reflects how economic development connects to the systems that support business growth, talent attraction, and long-term community planning.
Women in Aviation Open House Showcases Career Pathways
The Women in Aviation Open House connected students, veterans, adult career changers, educators, and workforce partners to aviation career pathways. The event included the new Aviation Maintenance Technology School on Challenger Boulevard and gave attendees access to industry professionals and mentors. For Charlotte County, events like this help future workers see aviation careers up close and strengthen the talent pipeline for a growing regional sector.
Construction Career Academy Connected Residents to Skilled Trades
The 2026 Construction Career Academy offered a regional workforce opportunity for residents interested in skilled trades. Scheduled for May 19 and 20 at Collaboratory in Fort Myers, the program included FDOT certifications, hands-on training, and access to a hiring event. Construction talent supports infrastructure, housing, and business growth across Southwest Florida. Programs like this connect workers to career pathways while supporting employer demand for qualified tradespeople.
Young Professionals Build Careers and Community Momentum Locally
Young professionals across Charlotte County are building careers, stepping into leadership, growing businesses, and making an impact across the community. Their stories support the Careers on the Coast message by showing that opportunity exists close to home. Workforce attraction is not only about bringing people in. It is also about helping local talent stay, grow, and invest in the community. Their momentum strengthens Charlotte County’s future.
Aviation Training Builds Local Pathways from Classroom to Career
Local aviation training is building a stronger workforce pipeline from classroom to career. New facilities and hands-on learning experiences help students see clear pathways into aviation careers. That matters for employers and for Charlotte County’s long-term economic strategy. By connecting education, industry needs, and career awareness, the county is strengthening talent development in a sector with continued growth and regional opportunity.
Business Support & Networking
Hurricane Preparedness Webinar Supports Local Business Resilience
The Hurricane Preparedness Webinar gave local businesses practical information to help them plan ahead for hurricane season. The May 6 program featured Matt Devitt Weather and local experts focused on preparedness for employers. Business continuity is part of economic stability, especially in a coastal community. Connecting businesses with timely guidance supports stronger operations, better planning, and a more resilient Charlotte County business community.
New Business Card Mixer Encourages Local Business Connections
The New Business Card Mixer gives entrepreneurs, resource partners, and community leaders a place to connect. The event helps businesses expand visibility, build relationships, and learn about support resources available in Charlotte County. Strong business communities are built through connection, and networking gives local businesses a practical way to create those opportunities. For small businesses and entrepreneurs, visibility and referrals can support long-term growth.
AI Workshop Helps Small Businesses Use Practical Tools
AI Made Practical for Small Business: The Right Tool for the Right Job gives business owners practical guidance on tools that can support daily operations. Scheduled for June 11, 2026, the workshop is presented by Theresa Ayers in partnership with the Florida SBDC at FGCU. The program covers tools such as ChatGPT, Gemini, Copilot, Perplexity, and Canva, helping small businesses save time, improve communication, create content, conduct research, and strengthen marketing.
Recognition & Community Highlights
Mid-County Regional Library Reopens as Community Resource
The reopening of the Mid-County Regional Library returned an important community resource to residents, students, families, workers, and lifelong learners. The updated space supports reading, studying, gathering, and hands-on learning through the makerspace. Assets like libraries are part of quality of place. They help create the kind of community where people want to live, employers can attract talent, and families can access resources that support learning and growth.
Habitat Celebrates Six Hundredth Home in Port Charlotte
Charlotte County Habitat for Humanity celebrated its 600th home on May 6 in Port Charlotte, where Yusitt and her son Edwin received the keys to a safe, affordable Habitat home. Housing is part of the larger quality-of-place conversation because stable housing supports families, workers, and employers. Milestones like this show how local partnerships help strengthen the community and support the people who live and work here.
Integrity Charitable Foundation Seeks Sponsors for Golf Event
Integrity Charitable Foundation invited local sponsors to support its July 11 Golf Tournament at Creekside Tavern at Deep Creek Golf Club. The organization identified proceeds for local children in need, with sponsorship opportunities available for businesses and community supporters. While this is not a core business development story, it reflects how local businesses and organizations contribute to community well-being. That kind of engagement helps strengthen Charlotte County’s quality of place.
Veterans Memorial Park Phase Two Groundbreaking Moves Forward
The Phase 2 groundbreaking at William R. Gaines Jr. Veterans Memorial Park marked another investment in public space and community quality of life. The project will add a large pavilion, two pickleball courts, and infrastructure improvements to support the park’s continued growth. Parks and public amenities matter to economic development because they help create the kind of community where families, workers, and employers want to stay.
SWFL Rotary Anniversary Event Supports Community Leadership
SWFL Rotary Club’s first anniversary event highlighted civic engagement as part of a strong quality-of-place story. The event brought young leaders together at Cypress Lodge in Babcock Ranch for service, leadership, and connection. Participants assembled hygiene kits, planted sunflowers, wrote thank-you notes, and completed hands-on service projects. Strong community organizations help build relationships, leadership, and local pride, all of which support a stronger Charlotte County.
Punta Gorda Elks Lodge Strengthens Local Community Connections
Punta Gorda Elks Lodge #2606 remains part of the community fabric that helps define quality of place in Charlotte County. With more than 4,500 members, the lodge continues bringing residents together, supporting local causes, and rebuilding. Community organizations like this help people feel connected to where they live. That connection matters for workforce attraction because people choose communities where they can build relationships, serve others, and feel at home.
Peace River Seafood Supports Local Quality of Place
Peace River Seafood & Botanicals is one of the local places that helps define Charlotte County’s quality of place. Restaurants, gathering spaces, and locally rooted destinations shape how residents, visitors, and future talent experience the community. While this is not a traditional business expansion story, places like Peace River Seafood help make Charlotte County memorable, connected, and attractive as a place to live, work, visit, and build a future.
