The Leadership Orlando Journey

There are a myriad of industries that drive Central Florida’s thriving economy. Last week, Leadership Orlando Class 65 participants witnessed three major contributors to our thriving market.

Their first stop was in south Orlando at Wycliffe Bible Translators, where Wally Meyer, Director of Community Relations, and graduate of Leadership Orlando Class 49, explained how this Orlando-based non-profit institution works together to translate Scripture, train field personnel in linguistics and promote interest in translation throughout the world.

LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION! The class followed this insightful presentation with a journey into the digitally enhanced world of Full Sail Real World Education in Winter Park. Mr. Garry Jones, President, provided the participants with an amazing virtual reality tour of the 100-acre campus along with information about the school and its economic impact in Central Florida. The Leadership Orlando team was given first-class access to the school’s recording studios, mixer rooms and even had the opportunity to eat lunch in an authentic sound studio! Participants were able to work hands-on with the studio machinery by composing their very own 10-second voice recording to the renowned children’s film, The Incredibles, in one of Full Sail’s recording studios. According to Full Sail staff, students “come here with an undying passion to realize their dream - a career they love in an industry that caters to creative minds.” With an 80% job placement rate, Full Sail is one of the most prominent schools in the nation.

The final destination of the day was to NAVAIR Headquarters at the Central Florida Research Park. Commanding Officer Captain Larry McCracken, USN, and a graduate of Leadership OrlandoClass 62, presented the class with an enlightening first look on how their team provides “cost-wise readiness and dominant maritime combat power to make a great Navy/Marine Corps team through the use of digital simulation.” The participants were awarded exclusive access to partake in some of NAVAIR’s most intensely researched simulation demonstrations. The most fascinating simulation included the use of a life-like mannequin able to breath and blink in the same manner as humans. It is used in teaching life-saving medical techniques in the field. The overall experience was breathtaking.

Leadership Orlando continues to provide its participants with behind-the-scenes, hands-on experiences that are truly engaging them with real issues affecting our economy.

To learn more about Leadership Orlando and how you can begin your experience, please contact Kathy Panter at 407.835.2499 or kathy.panter@orlando.org.