LAKELAND, Fla. – Florida Polytechnic University named the commons area inside the Innovation, Science and Technology (IST) Building after Saddle Creek Logistics Services on Monday. Saddle Creek has been an industry partner with Florida Poly since the University opened its doors in 2014. The naming of the commons area after Saddle Creek reflects the importance of the partnership.
“Saddle Creek’s support has contributed directly to our students’ success and the growth of our university,” said Florida Poly President Dr. Randy K. Avent. “The naming of the commons after them is just one small way we can thank them for their commitment to Florida Poly and the education of our students who are preparing to enter the high-tech workforce.”
The newly named Saddle Creek Logistics Commons is an 11,000-square-foot space inside the IST Building. This area is an extremely popular place on the Florida Poly campus where you can find students gathering, studying and working side-by-side with their professors on various experiential learning projects. It has also been the main space for many of the University’s biggest events, including its annual PIVOT gala and the University’s recent Inaugural Graduation, which took place Jan. 3, 2017.
Monday’s naming ceremony included brief comments from leaders of both Florida Poly and Saddle Creek Logistics Services and culminated in unveiling a rendering of the sign that will soon mark the named space. The ceremony was followed by a reception and tours of the university.
Saddle Creek Logistics Services is a Lakeland-based omnichannel supply chain solutions provider founded in 1966. Their partnership with Florida Poly includes providing internships for Florida Poly students, partnering with faculty to develop an industry-relevant curriculum, and providing financial support. Saddle Creek contributed $1.25 million to the University this year.
“Over the years, technology has become critically important in the logistics business, and that’s one of the big reasons we partner with Florida Poly,” said Cliff Otto, CEO of Saddle Creek Logistics Services and a member of the Florida Polytechnic University Board of Trustees. “This University is preparing students to tackle real-world problems in the areas of science, technology, engineering and math. We take great pride in being able to help Florida Poly do that.”
Saddle Creek Logistics Services is one of the largest privately held third-party logistics companies in North America with locations all over the country. They provide customers a variety of logistics services that include warehousing, omnichannel fulfillment, transportation and packaging.
They are also providing internships for Florida Poly students. Travis Hills, a sophomore from Tampa majoring in Computer Science with an emphasis in Cyber Security, is currently interning at Saddle Creek.
“What I learn in the classroom I’m able to apply at my internship. And what I learn at my internship I’m able to apply in the classroom,” said Hills. “It’s a great way for me to apply what I’ve learned and better prepare myself for real-world situations in my field of study.”
Saddle Creek Logistics Services is one of many top-tier companies partnering with Florida Polytechnic University. To ensure students graduate job-ready, Florida Poly collaborates with a network of more than 90 industry partners to offer guidance on developing a project-based curriculum and to provide internship opportunities that stress real-world experience.