🟣 Florida Ranks #1 in Education & Workforce Talent

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Connection!

Florida continues to shine on the national stage—earning top rankings for both higher education and workforce talent. Plus, big travel news for the Treasure Coast: American Airlines is officially adding daily flights from Vero Beach to Charlotte. We’ll also highlight this week’s top networking events and spotlight the incredible work of the Boys & Girls Clubs of St. Lucie County.

Nicholas, Michelle, and Danny
Co-Founders, Port St. Lucie Business Club

For the 10th year U.S. News & World Report has ranked Florida the #1 state for higher education for a decade straight, thanks to low tuition, high graduation rates, and strong student success outcomes. Seven state universities are now in the top 100, including UF (#7), FSU, and FIU, which also earned #1 in the nation for economic mobility. Florida A&M remains the top public HBCU.

Starting February 12, 2026, American Airlines will launch daily nonstop flights from Vero Beach to Charlotte, NC, connecting travelers to more than 170 destinations through one of American’s largest hubs. The service joins JetBlue and Breeze Airways, marking the airport’s third major carrier within a year. City officials are already planning upgrades to handle the rapid growth.

Florida continues to lead the nation in workforce readiness, topping the 2024 Talent Attraction Scorecard for the third consecutive year. The Sebastian–Vero Beach area ranked 9th among mid-sized metros nationwide, with major gains in skilled job and high-earning job growth. With over 360,000 new businesses launched this year, the demand for talent is stronger than ever—and local programs are helping Treasure Coast residents prepare for high-wage careers.

Tuesday, Oct. 7, 11:45 am-1 pm at Mission Kitchen. $20 at the door. Enjoy a great lunch and featured monthly speaker.

RSVP to Marketing with a Mission

Wednesday, Oct. 8, 6-8 pm at Frazier Creek Brewing & Distilling Co., Stuart. $10 cash cover. Please RSVP through the link below by Monday, Oct. 6 by 5:00pm. Bring a door prize for a shoutout!

RSVP to Martini Network required on SignUpGenius

Thursday, Oct. 9, 6-8 p.m. at Dave & Buster’s, Port St. Lucie. $25 admission. RSVP required. A great evening for HR professionals and business leaders to connect and share insights.

RSVP to the HR & Business Leaders Council event

NOTE: We not responsible for changes, cancellations, or inaccuracies. For the latest updates, please check with the hosting organization.

By popular demand, our Oct/Nov Guide to the Treasure Coast has expanded—opening limited extra ad space. This fall issue supports nonprofits and shopping local, packed with community articles that readers love.

Reach 10,000 copies: 5,000 mailed to beachside homes as snowbirds arrive, plus 5,000 at 200 Treasure Coast locations. Every ad includes exposure on our new website launching next week and in our active Facebook group. Ads are award-winning design, trusted and affordable. PSLBC members get 10% off our already low rates. Act quickly—this issue goes to print in days!

David Moshier, Publisher
Phone: 772-559-1370
Email: [email protected]

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For over 25 years, the Boys & Girls Clubs have been empowering local youth through mentorship, education, and character-building programs. What began in 1994 as one small clubhouse has grown into 25+ active sites across the county, serving 4,000+ kids every year. From after-school programs to summer camps, these Clubs provide a safe, inspiring space for young people to reach their full potential.

 👉 Learn more or get involved HERE.

Want to reach 3,200+ local business owners? The Connection is now offering sponsorships for businesses ready to connect with our engaged community. Interested? Learn more at pslbusinessclub.com/sponsorships.

We’d love your feedback on this week’s newsletter. Just hit reply and let us know what you think.

Tuesday, October 21st at 6pm
Crane Club at Tesoro
2000 SE Via Tesoro, Port St. Lucie, FL 34984