OEV
Newsletter 

February 21, 2025

Innovation in Motion: Tallahassee-Leon County Hosts the 2025 MDSM Conference 

The 2025 Motor, Drive Systems & Magnetics (MDSM) Conference has officially wrapped up, and what an incredible event for Tallahassee-Leon County! From February 18–20, 2025, our community transformed into a global hub for innovation—attracting more than 260 industry leaders, innovators, and decision-makers to explore the latest advancements in magnetics, motor design, drive systems, and motion control technologies. Thirty-six organizations exhibited at the event, including firms like Danfoss Turbocor, Yunsheng USA, NICHIA Corporation, the Rare Earth Industry Association, Lake Shore Cryotronics, and Brockhaus Measurements. 

Power Forward 2025: AI, Innovation & Business Growth

Last week, the 11th Annual Power Forward Speaker Series, presented by First Commerce Credit Union and the FSU Division of Research, brought together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and community members at Ruby Diamond Concert Hall for an inspiring discussion on Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its role in shaping the future.

This year’s featured speaker, Zack Kass, former Head of Go-To-Market at OpenAI, shared insights on how businesses can leverage AI to drive innovation, boost efficiency, and stay competitive. Drawing from his experience with ChatGPT, Kass emphasized ethical AI adoption, workforce adaptation, and the transformative impact of emerging technologies.

Power Forward continues to be a premier event fostering business growth, networking, and thought leadership in Tallahassee. As AI reshapes industries, our community is well-positioned to lead and thrive in this evolving landscape. 

OEV Director Bowers Selected for TSC African American History Calendar

Big congratulations to our very own OEV Director Keith Bowers for being featured in Tallahassee State College’s 25th annual Cherry Hall Alexander African American History Calendar AND receiving the President’s Award! This year's theme, "African Americans in the Workforce," celebrates the achievements and significant contributions of African Americans across various sectors, including agriculture, manufacturing, construction, transportation, logistics, hospitality, the service industry, food service, and other skilled trades. The calendar honors individuals who have made a meaningful impact in our community, highlighting their dedication and commitment to excellence in their respective fields. We’re honored to see Director Bowers' leadership and impact recognized alongside so many inspiring Black achievers! To learn more about all the awardees, check out TSC's playlist on YouTube. 

Happy Black History Month! Join OEV on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram as we spotlight the trailblazing pioneers, visionaries, and game-changers shaping history in Tallahassee-Leon County! Let’s celebrate and honor the rich legacy of Black excellence and empowerment. Stay tuned for inspiring profiles throughout the remainder of the month that motivate, uplift, and empower! ✊🏾✨

We encourage our followers to actively engage with the featured posts by liking, commenting, and sharing. It's an opportunity to learn from the experiences of these remarkable individuals!

The 4th annual Black Business Expo Tallahassee is happening TOMORROW at The Moon! Get ready for a day filled with networking, empowerment, and incredible opportunities to grow your business.

This is THE event for Black-owned businesses and aspiring entrepreneurs looking to thrive in 2025. You won’t want to miss it!

Notable News

Maglab, City, FSU unveil magnetically levitating sculpture 'Maggie'

Mishalynn Brown
Tallahassee Democrat

Senator Keith Truenow files bill to boost Florida’s manufacturing sector

Andrew Powell
Florida Politics

Upcoming Opportunities
from Our Partners

Take Our Regional Workforce Needs Survey

We’re partnering with local organizations to assess workforce needs in our community, and we need your insight! This survey is designed to help us understand the workforce challenges businesses face and identify areas where training, resources, and support can make the biggest impact.

Your feedback will help shape programs that strengthen our local workforce and drive business success.

Take the survey today and help us build a stronger Tallahassee: bit.ly/RegionalWorkforceNeeds

Read Past Issues of the OEV Newsletter Online!

Delve into past issues of the OEV Newsletter to catch up on updates, insights, economic development initiatives, programs, and opportunities in Tallahassee-Leon County!