Lakeland is becoming a technology industry powerhouse, with the Lakeland-Winter Haven metro area's high-tech gross domestic product growing nearly 63% from 2018 to 2023. Did you know about these technological advancements being used and developed right here in Swan City?

Healthcare

Lakeland Regional Health rolled out a new lung care technology called the Intuitive Ion Robotic Navigational Bronchoscopy in February. The diagnostic technology uses robotic tech + 3D imaging to collect more precise tissue samples from all parts of the lung.

The tech doesn't stop there — LRH has also implemented procedures like the Robotic Whipple for pancreatic cancer surgery and Bridge Enhanced ACL Restoration implant that can be used instead of another tendon in ACL procedures.

Dr. Kelley and Dr. Ahamed are collaborating thanks to a Fulbright research partnership. | Photo provided by Florida Polytechnic University

Edu

Where better to find new technology than at Florida Polytechnic University, Florida's only state STEM school? Researchers here work alongside students to find solutions for problems in health, public safety, and more.

One project that has life-changing potential is the research of assistant professor Dr. Chris Kelley and Dr. Jalal Ahamed from Canada's University of Windsor. Their team has created wearable technology that captures movement changes in those with Parkinson's disease. The coin-sized sensors will monitor the progression of the disease + effectiveness of treatments.

Would you hitch a ride in an autonomous car? | Photo provided by Florida’s Turnpike Enterprise

Traffic

Just up the road from Florida Poly is the SunTrax testing facility. Led by the Florida Department of Transportation, it includes several types of environments where autonomous vehicles and new tolling technology are put to the test.

Agriculture

Over at Catapult, EZ Ag Innovations is using patented AI + machine learning technology to help farmers. The company is led by University of Florida professors with decades of agricultural experience. By using AI to target fungicide spraying, it aims to reduce the amount of chemicals used and raise crop yields. More fresh produce? Count us in.