We’ve scored some great recognition lately, with AMRoC Fab Lab earning a 2023 Best of Florida spot and FCDI being named a Tampa Bay Business Journal One Tampa Bay Honoree.
Now we’re happy to announce that Foundation for Community Driven Innovation founders, Terri and Steve Willingham are among the Florida Trend 2023 Florida 500 ! The Florida 500 annually recognizes individuals identified by the editors of Florida Trend Magazine as being among the state’s most influential business leaders across major industries.
Steve and Terri were recognized in the Information/Tech/Media category for their work with AMRoC Fab Lab and other FCDI programs including Equity in Entrepreneurship, ROBOTICON and Gulf Coast MakerCon that bring inclusive, accessible science, tech, entrepreneurship and small business education and support to their community.
“I feel honored to have created a safe, welcoming creative public space for a diverse, multigenerational community to come together to learn new skills, share expertise and interests, build small businesses, and enjoy the experience of collaborative productivity and fun,” said Terri, Executive Director of FCDI.
” AMRoC Fab Lab is an oasis of meaningful place-making, what sociologist Ray Oldenburg called the ‘Third Place,’ a vital part of the community that is neither home, nor work/school, but a place for relaxing, socializing and creative enjoyment.”
“I am fortunate to have the opportunity to share and pass along to our
next generation of young, budding engineers and entrepreneurs my experience and passion for systems engineering, business administration, accounting, and workshop skills, ” said Steve, currently serving as FCDI’s Finance Officer.
“I believe my influence on these students and constituents of FCDI has helped guide them toward careers in all manner of engineering and associated phases of development.”
Congratulations Steve and Terri, and thank you Florida Trend for recognizing the important and powerful work they’ve done in Tampa Bay!