Our mission at Florida Poly is to serve students and industry through excellence in education, discovery, and application of engineering and applied sciences. Leading the Way in STEM Education Florida Poly is the nation’s leading institution of change, engineered from the ground up to push the boundaries of education in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). Florida Poly is located along Interstate 4 at the heart of Florida’s High-Tech Corridor in the city of Lakeland, halfway between Tampa and Orlando. Like its name implies, Lakeland is known for its waterfront neighborhoods and more than 60 miles of biking and walking trails. The city has a vibrant downtown filled with shops, restaurants, parks and performing arts venues. Check out Evolution Records, an indie vinyl seller and live music venue. Hang out with friends or study at Black & Brew Coffee House on Main Street. Get outdoors for a spin at the new Lake Bonny Skate Park. You don’t want to miss out on a visit to Reececliff either for a slice of pie and other homemade foods! Festivals, parades, concerts, a big farmer’s market and food truck rallies are hallmarks of Lakeland culture, as are the giant swans you’ll see gliding on city lakes. They are descendants of swans given to the city by Queen Elizabeth II. Lakeland also is the spring training home of the Detroit Tigers. In February or March, you can catch a classic outdoor game at Joker Marchant Stadium. The average high in February is a comfortable 73 degrees.