Education

Course options:

• Software Engineering: This course is crafted for all skill levels — whether you have zero coding knowledge, are self-taught, or are somewhere in between. Flatiron’s approach focuses on applying skills through hands-on, collaborative experiences, whether that’s pair programming, code reviews, or coding challenges. Students will further hone their communication skills and become part of the tech community as they build, share, and refine their Github portfolios.
• Data Science: Data is only as valuable as the person behind it, and Flatiron trains you to be that person. Experienced instructors show students how to extract and visualize data, leverage it to find actionable insights, and make powerful predictions with machine learning — all rare yet highly-desired skill sets.
• Cybersecurity: Employers are actively seeking and hiring cybersecurity professionals at more than twice the rate of the average job outside of the tech industry. This course focuses on the core aspects of cybersecurity, including network security, Python (no, snakes aren’t involved), pen testing, threat intelligence, cryptology, and Governance, Risk, and Compliance (one of the most important building blocks in the curriculum).
• Product Design: Students gain hands-on UX/UI (user experience and user interface) design skills using modern tools like Figma + Webflow, building a professional portfolio (intentionally crafted to catch hiring managers’ eyes upon graduation).

How it works:

• Flatiron offers both full-time programs (15 weeks) and flexible-pace programs (up to 60 weeks).
• Both program options are available online. Flatiron also has Denver, CO + New York City campuses for in-person courses.
• Flatiron offers graduates up to 180 days of one-on-one career coaching to help students succeed during their job search.
• Flexible financing is available with a 12-month, no-interest installment plan. Chat with Admissions to see what works best for you financially; some students qualify for additional support, like cost of living loans.

How to apply:

• Florida Strawberry Festival | Friday, Mar. 10-Sunday, Mar. 12 | 10 a.m.-10 p.m. | Florida Strawberry Festival Grounds, 303 N. Lemon St., Plant City | $5-$10 | Celebrate all things strawberry with rides, concerts, and plenty of fair food at this annual festival.
• Live Music — Adrienne Richards | Friday, Mar. 10 | 7-10 p.m. | Union Taproom, 245 W. Central Ave., Ste. 102, Winter Haven | Free | Pour your own beers and enjoy live music by Adrienne Richards.
• Polk Wellness Professionals Annual Showcase | Friday, Mar. 10 | 8:30-10 a.m. | Heartland for Children, 1239 E. Main St., Bartow | Free | Learn more about Polk Wellness Professionals and network with others in your field.

• Spring Obsession | Saturday, Mar. 11 | 8 a.m.-3 p.m. | Munn Park, 201 E. Main St., Lakeland | Free | Celebrate the start of spring with 60+ plant and garden art vendors and family activities to benefit The Lakeland Rotary.
• Nature Narrator | Saturday, Mar. 11 | 10 a.m. | 400 Bonnet Springs Park Blvd., Lakeland | Free | Kids can enjoy a narrated story time and create a themed craft or activity at the Outdoor Classroom.
• Baby Goat Yoga on the Farm! | Saturday, Mar. 11 | 10-11 a.m. | The Cloven Hoof Farm, 6170 Robbins Rd., Lakeland | $5-$25 | We’re not kidding around — try this beginner-friendly, 45-minute goat yoga class.

• Lakeland Magic vs. Capital City Go-Go | Sunday, Mar. 12 | 3 p.m. | RP Funding Center, 701 W. Lime St., Lakeland | $12-$158 | Go-go to this game to cheer the Magic on to a win during Magic Gaming Night.
• Paul Cataldo Duo w/ Bad Dog BBQ | Sunday, Mar. 12 | 2-5 p.m. | Swan Brewing, 115 W. Pine St., Lakeland | Free | Enjoy live music and order a twist on your favorite barbecue dishes — we’ve got our eyes on the loaded mac and cheese.
• Paint Your Pet! (Ages 10+) | Sunday, Mar. 12 | 4-6 p.m. | Painting with a Twist, 3670 Harden Blvd., Lakeland | $46 | Send in a photo of your pet before this class to have an artist create a sketch for you to paint — seats are limited.

• 84º | Partly cloudy | 20% chance of rain

• $197 million. That’s how much a bill in the Moving Florida Forward initiative could provide for renovations at the State Road 33/Exit 38 interchange on I-4, near Florida Polytechnic University. According to Lakeland’s Planning and Transportation manager, Chuck Barmby, work could start in 2023 if the bill passes. (LkldNow)

• Judges from the Sixth District Court of Appeal heard arguments in their first case at their new venue: Florida Southern College. The temporary arrangements allow the judges to hear oral arguments while waiting for a courthouse to be built. The $50 million courthouse previously mentioned in Florida’s budget has since been vetoed. ⚖️ (The Ledger)

• 60%. That’s how many of the world’s pilots receive their “primary flight training” right here in the Sunshine State, according to Lakeland’s International Aero Academy instructor Kyle Mansfield. In total, Lakeland has five flight schools that serve local students plus trainees from Africa, China, India, and more. (WFTS)

• Polk County’s West Pipkin Road widening project is still underway. On Monday, March 9, crews will close Yates Road at West Pipkin Road for an expected period of six days. Pro tip: Expect delays or detours in the area and pad your commute with a few extra minutes. (The Ledger)

• Business owners in Lakeland’s exploding Italian ice industry are preparing to welcome Jeremiah’s Italian Ice. While an opening date is TBA, you can learn more about what newcomer Jeremiah’s and existing shops Rita’s, Mimi’s, and Andy’s have to offer with The Ledger. 🍧 (The Ledger)
• Looking for a place to host your next team meeting or conference? Catapult has a variety of meeting rooms for rent that can accommodate any size group. Take a look at the options.*

• WonderHere’s 2023 Childhood Conference is happening from Friday, April 21-Saturday, April 22. Register to hear from speakers on various parenthood topics and meet fellow caregivers. Pro tip: Sign your kids up for KIDS Con, a nature-filled weekend for kids 4-12 during the conference. 🎈

• Listen up for some key information. The Swan City Piano festival is returning from June 8-13 with live performances, master classes, family-friendly events, and more. Guest artists include Jihye Chang, Tal Cohen, Sun-A Park, and Erica Porter. Did we mention admission to every event is free?

• Did you know Parkesdale Market’s strawberry milkshake was deemed America’s Best Drinkable Dessert by none other than The Food Network? Kick off your weekend with one for yourself — stop by today from 9 a.m.-6 p.m. — here’s a sneak peek of what you can expect. 🍓

• Do you eat, breathe, and dream about editorial content? We’re hiring a Managing Editor to support the strategic growth and development of 6AM City’s editorial team, specifically as it relates to content management, creation, and strategy. See details + apply.

• Whoa. Our eyes are seeing a whole lotta double — as in a lot of BOGO deals happening at Publix GreenWise Market this week. Think: Buy one kombucha, cereal, k-cup coffee, or bottle of wine, and get one free. See the deals. 🍷 *

• Your CBD Store is hosting Sweets Saturday tomorrow, March 11. Lakelanders can enjoy a buy two and get the third free promotion on all edibles (including CBD, CBG, CBN, Delta 8 + 9, Honey, Hard Candy, and more). Learn more.*

• Have you prepared your speech? The 95th Academy Awards takes place this Sunday, March 12 at 8 p.m. Not sure where to watch? Stream it with a free five-day trial of DIRECTV STREAM. Bonus: Invite your fellow film buffs over for a watch party. *

• Looking for a spring wardrobe update (or maybe just an excuse to shop)? We love looking for the best deals on Zulily’s current obsessions list, like these flattering wide-leg pants or this textured pink blouse.* 👚