Welcome to this week’s Regional Perspective, where I share stories that bring the Orlando 2045 Vision to life and highlight the progress shaping our region’s future.
1) Driving results in Washington, D.C. – This week, business and government leaders from across our region traveled to Washington, D.C., to advocate for the Orlando region’s priorities in infrastructure, innovation, and national competitiveness. Key discussions centered on Central Florida’s semiconductor industry, rail and highway connections to Orlando’s airports, and the protection of modeling, simulation, and training capabilities that are vital to our economy. Our advocacy is already making an impact. At a recent Senate Armed Services Committee hearing, U.S. Senator Rick Scott underscored the importance of Florida’s military training and defense capabilities—an area in which Central Florida continues to lead. On behalf of the region’s business community, we thank Senator Scott for championing Florida’s defense strengths. We also share our appreciation for Lockheed Martin for hosting our delegation at its Fighter Demonstration Center in Arlington, where we saw firsthand how technologies developed in Orlando support national defense and the warfighter mission. When Central Florida speaks with one voice on Capitol Hill, we strengthen our standing and competitiveness on the national stage. Special thanks to our presenting sponsor BakerHostetler and supporting sponsor TECO. View photos here.
2) Now Hiring: Vice President of Economic Development – Are you an experienced economic development professional with a proven track record in business recruitment, prospect development, and deal execution? This is your opportunity to lead high-impact recruitment efforts in one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions. Reporting to the Senior Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development, this role drives the attraction of new businesses and investment to the Orlando region. The Vice President will lead prospect strategy, manage complex recruitment projects, and build strong relationships with site selectors, corporate decision-makers, and regional partners. Success in this role requires sharp business acumen, the ability to present compelling, data-driven cases for investment, and a results-oriented approach to closing deals. This position plays a critical role in strengthening key industry clusters, advancing regional competitiveness, and supporting Broad-based Prosperity® across Central Florida. Learn more and apply.
3) New Global Orlando Report highlights talent, trade, and investment – I’m excited to share the release of the 2026 Global Orlando Report, an OEP Research & Strategy publication that highlights Orlando’s rising position as an internationally connected economy and outlines a strategy to accelerate foreign direct investment. The region continues to gain global momentum, with 23 percent of residents foreign-born, more than 340 foreign-owned companies employing 40,000 workers, and global trade reaching $27.4 billion. These trends reinforce Orlando’s competitive advantage. To fully capture this opportunity, the report calls for targeted engagement in high-value sectors to drive job growth, raise wages, and advance the Orlando 2045 vision. The 2026 Global Orlando Report provides a clear roadmap for translating Orlando’s global strengths into sustained investment and long-term prosperity. Download the report today.
4) A new chapter at Walt Disney World – This week also brought an important leadership transition at one of our region’s most influential partners. Walt Disney World President Jeff Vahle announced his retirement after an extraordinary 36-year career, and Joe Schott has been named as his successor. Jeff has been a strong partner to the Orlando Economic Partnership and a champion for our region. His leadership helped guide Walt Disney World through a period of significant growth and investment, strengthening our regional economy in the process. We thank him for his partnership and wish him the very best in his well-earned retirement. We also look forward to working with Joe Schott as he steps into this role at a time of continued expansion and opportunity for our region. Learn more here.
5) Join the interest list for the Austin Mission – Want to be among the first of our region’s leaders to register for our Executive Leadership Mission to Austin? Then add your name to the interest list to experience one of the nation’s leading innovation economies. This mission offers a unique opportunity to engage directly with business, civic, and academic leaders shaping Austin’s growth, while gaining insights that can inform our region’s strategy and competitiveness. Participants will explore best practices in talent development, entrepreneurship, and regional branding, and build relationships that extend beyond the trip. By joining the interest list, you will receive early access to registration and priority updates as the agenda and delegation take shape. Sign up here.
6) OEP talent recognized for innovation and impact – Congratulations to Abigail Wagner, OEP associate director of economic development, on receiving the Dan Webster Young Innovator Scholarship Award from the Florida Economic Development Council. This recognition honors emerging leaders making a meaningful impact in economic development across Florida, and it’s a well-deserved acknowledgment of Abigail’s contributions to advancing opportunity, innovation, and regional growth. We are also proud to share that Nate Edmund, our Director of Programs, has been selected for the prestigious 2026–27 ACCE NextGen Leadership Program, a national honor recognizing emerging leaders in chamber and economic development. These recognitions elevate both the OEP and the Orlando region, highlighting how innovative leadership and regional collaboration drives growth across Central Florida. Please join us in congratulating them on this incredible achievement. View photos here.
7) Apply for PLI’s Political Leaders Track – Applications for the Public Leadership Institute’s (PLI) Political Leaders Track are now open. This nonpartisan program offers a valuable opportunity for business and community leaders who are considering running for elected or appointed public office to better understand the influence of public policy and gain practical insight into pursuing public office. PLI provides direct access to the tools needed to build knowledge, perspective, and relationships essential for effective public leadership. Since its inception in 2008, over 30 PLI graduates have served in public office in our region. Applications are open through June 26. Apply today.
Programs & Events
PLI Political Leaders Track // June 26 Application Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
Leadership Orlando Class 111 // August 14 Enrollment Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
LEADForward Roundtables Fall 2026 Cohort // August 14 Application Deadline // LEARN MORE & ENROLL
Leadership Orlando Alumni Association – Stay connected, continue leading, and help shape what’s next for our region // LEARN MORE & JOIN
2026 Executive Leadership Mission to Austin // SAVE THE DATE AND JOIN THE INTEREST LIST – September 23 – 25 // LEARN MORE
ICYMI
Meet the Orlando Squeeze: Central Florida’s Pro Pickleball Team – Fox35
Orlando airport ramps up testing of advanced air mobility technology – Orlando Business Journal
Seminole County approved indoor sports complex expected to generate $2.4 billion – WESH
ZIPAIR Returns with Nonstop Flights to Tokyo – Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA)
Central Florida airport lands new route following acquisition of rival carrier – Orlando Business Journal
Walt Disney World’s new president started as Jungle Cruise skipper – Orlando Sentinel
