The Tampa Bay Economic Development Council celebrated its 15th anniversary at its annual “Level Up” meeting, on Nov. 5, unveiling its 2025 leadership, honoring local business achievements and sharing its latest economic milestones.
The EDC appointed Ron Christaldi, of Shumaker, as the new chair, alongside vice chair Archie Collins, of TECO, Secretary/Treasurer Thomas Benford, of Coke Florida, and General Counsel Gary Sasso, of Carlton Fields.
In 2024, the EDC assisted with the expansion of eight local businesses and recruited seven new companies to the area. Over its 15-year history, the EDC has driven nearly $3.7 billion in capital investment within Hillsborough County, creating nearly 42,000 direct jobs and boosting economic output across Tampa Bay by over $26 billion, the EDC shared.
Penske Truck Leasing received the TECO Community Transformer Award, recognizing its contributions beyond job creation. Since being recruited by the EDC in 2019, Penske has grown from 30 to over 120 employees at its Tampa Westshore office, with plans to double its tech workforce. Penske’s IT Apprenticeship Program also offers training and career opportunities for women, minorities and veterans, providing full-time roles for many program graduates.
