AGP Executive Report

Defense Manufacturing & Drones: Blue Ops is marking its first year scaling autonomous marine boat production in Valdosta, Georgia, near Florida, as the U.S. and allies push harder on unmanned maritime systems. Unmanned Maritime Demand: MARTAC says it’s partnering with SŌLACE Boats to add production capacity for 100 more Devil Ray autonomous vessels per year from Florida’s Edgewater facility. Space Coast Industrial Growth: KEY Group and Hines broke ground on Space Coast Innovation Park at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, targeting aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing and logistics with a multi-phase plan totaling about 450 acres. 3D Printing for Health: Stratasys expanded its long-running partnership with UCF’s Limbitless Solutions to broaden access to 3D-printed prosthetics for children, adding sustainability and education focus. Florida Jobs: Florida added 21,800 jobs in August and cut unemployment to 4.5%, with manufacturing up 2,300 jobs year over year. Workforce & Policy: Lt. Gov. Jay Collins argues Florida’s business pull is “math,” citing corporate relocations and Buc-ee’s expansion as signals of continued momentum. Regulatory & Safety: FDA issued a nationwide recall of chlorthalidone tablets after failed dissolution testing, affecting a widely used high-blood-pressure diuretic.

Space Coast Industrial Growth: KEY Group and Hines broke ground on Space Coast Innovation Park at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, a planned 450-acre, three-phase Class A industrial site targeting aerospace, defense, advanced manufacturing and logistics, with 639,000 sq. ft. in the first milestone. Defense & Drones: Powerus, linked to Trump-family ties, signed an India licensing deal to manufacture anti-drone “Guardian 1” systems—months after a Pakistan Army deal—highlighting fast-moving unmanned defense supply chains. Florida Jobs: Florida added 21,800 jobs in August; unemployment fell to 4.5% for the third straight month, with manufacturing up 2,300 jobs year over year. Public Safety Tech Backlash: Flock Safety faces contract terminations and a voluntary separation program as cities cite privacy concerns and residents vandalize license plate reader cameras. Workforce & Health: COVID-19 activity is flagged as “high” in wastewater data as respiratory season nears, while Florida’s labor market remains steady but economists warn of a possible uptick later this year. Local Enforcement: Fort Pierce authorities seized 4.5 kg of fentanyl and other drugs in a narcotics raid, leading to multiple trafficking and related charges.

Florida Jobs Watch: Florida added 21,800 jobs in August and cut unemployment to 4.5%, the third straight monthly decline, with manufacturing up 2,300 jobs year over year. Public Health & Manufacturing Supply Chains: The FDA reported a nationwide recall of 13,567 bottles of generic chlorthalidone tablets after a failed dissolution test, a reminder that quality checks can directly affect patient access. Drug Enforcement in Florida: St. Lucie County authorities arrested Fort Pierce resident Tony Saunders after a raid seized about 4.5 kilograms of fentanyl, 303 grams of cocaine, and other drugs, with charges including trafficking and manufacturing cocaine. Workforce/Industry Context: State economists cautioned Florida’s unemployment could tick up later this year even as wages continue to improve. AI/Data Center Politics: A national “Data Center Revolt” bus tour drew small crowds, raising questions about momentum behind anti–data center efforts.

Florida Jobs: Florida added 21,800 jobs in August and cut unemployment to 4.5%, the third straight monthly decline, with manufacturing up 2,300 jobs year over year. Public Health: COVID-19 activity is trending “high” in wastewater data as of Sept. 18, with August levels up 168% versus July, even as CDC activity remains “low” nationwide. Law Enforcement: In Fort Pierce, deputies and U.S. Marshals seized about 4.5 kilograms of fentanyl plus cocaine, MDPV-laced marijuana, and oxycodone; Tony Saunders, 48, faces multiple trafficking and related charges. Workforce & Growth: Ideal Nutrition, a Florida prepared-meal brand, renewed and expanded its Square partnership as it scales from 17 locations toward a national footprint. Tech & Policy: Florida DOT revoked permits on its highway system for Flock automated license plate readers amid a broader backlash over misuse concerns. Manufacturing/Trade Watch: A report says Republican-led states—including Florida—are driving a large share of U.S. solar buildout, with Florida ranked among the top adopters.

Florida Jobs: Florida’s unemployment rate fell to 4.5% in August, down from 4.6% in July, marking the third straight monthly dip; economists still warn an uptick could come later this year. Solar Buildout: A new Solar Energy Industries Association report says Trump-voting states led U.S. solar growth, with Texas and Florida ranking among the top builders in the first half of 2026. Manufacturing & Work: In Northeast Florida, the jobless rate rose to 4.8% in August, while manufacturing added 500 jobs year over year in the Jacksonville metro. Defense & Aerospace: Hermeus signed a licensing deal with Pratt & Whitney to produce the F100 engine, aiming to reduce engine supply constraints as it ramps up aircraft production. FDA Safety: The FDA updated warnings for Kybella (deoxycholic acid) after identifying additional adverse events, including unresolved nodules and off-label risks. Local Enforcement: A Fort Pierce man was arrested after a raid seized about 4.5 kilograms of fentanyl and other drugs worth millions. Retail Tech: Florida meal brand Ideal Nutrition expanded its partnership with Square as it scales from 17 Florida locations toward a national footprint.

Workforce Watch: Northeast Florida’s unemployment rate ticked up to 4.8% in August, with manufacturing adding 500 jobs year over year, according to CareerSource. Retail & Payments: Florida’s Ideal Nutrition is renewing and expanding its Square partnership as it scales from 17 locations toward a national franchise footprint. Advanced Manufacturing & Defense Tech: LightPath Technologies won a funded U.S. defense prototype deal to mature its BlackDiamond chalcogenide glass as a germanium alternative for infrared systems. Local Industry Expansion: Tampa Brass & Aluminum plans a $58M Tampa HQ expansion, targeting 50 new jobs tied to defense manufacturing. Tech & Research Spotlight: FAU’s CA-AI Hovering Owls hit a 2.16:1 payload-to-weight ratio at DARPA’s Lift Challenge. Legal/Corporate Compliance: Starbucks agreed to end race- and sex-based hiring goals and preferences under a nationwide settlement tied to Florida’s civil rights lawsuit. Aerospace/Capital Markets: Jet financiers say fuel and borrowing costs are now the top worry, shifting sentiment from past aircraft shortages.

Biopharma CDMO Deal: Kincell Bio and Cellipont Bioservices completed a merger to form Kincellis Advanced Therapies, a U.S. contract development and manufacturing organization focused on cell therapies and advanced modalities, citing 150+ GMP batches and 10 IND filings this year. Workforce & Training: Gov. Ron DeSantis expanded Workforce Pell grants for Florida workforce training, covering programs including HVAC/R, welding, CNC machining and aerospace tech, aiming to feed in-demand jobs with debt-free support. State Policy Clash: DeSantis urged voters to reject Florida’s Amendment 1, arguing it would lock more money into the Budget Stabilization Fund instead of returning it to taxpayers. DEI Settlement: Starbucks agreed to pay Florida $1 million and end race- and sex-based employment goals, quotas and preferences nationwide under a settlement ending the state’s civil rights lawsuit. Manufacturing/Logistics Investment: Estes Express Lines plans nearly $56M to expand cross-border and offshore freight capacity, including terminals and equipment serving Canada, Mexico, Alaska, Hawaii and Puerto Rico. Food Supply Watch: Walmart shoppers were warned about multiple food recalls, including frozen fruit tied to possible E. coli contamination and other items flagged for safety risks. Local Industry & Innovation: Boca Bearing rolled out solid-lubricated mounted unit bearings designed to eliminate re-greasing in washdown and contamination-prone environments.

Workforce Funding: Gov. Ron DeSantis expanded Pell Grants for Florida students to cover workforce training programs, including HVAC/R, welding, CNC machining, aerospace tech and public safety—aimed at building a “talent pipeline” for high-demand jobs. AI for Industrial Sales: Boca Raton-based Pro Platforms opened distributor ERP access to AI assistants via MCP for ERP, letting reps and contractors check pricing, availability and place orders through chat, voice or email without issuing API keys. Manufacturing Tech & Maintenance: Boca Bearing Company rolled out solid-lubricated mounted unit bearings designed to eliminate re-greasing and reduce unplanned downtime in washdown and contamination-prone environments. Space Coast Industry: NASA opened media accreditation for SpaceX’s 35th resupply launch to the ISS from Cape Canaveral, targeting no earlier than October. Food Safety Recalls: Walmart shoppers were warned about multiple food recalls, including frozen fruit tied to possible E. coli contamination and candy with a choking hazard risk. Policy & Compliance: Florida’s AG confirmed a settlement with Starbucks ending race- and sex-based employment goals, quotas and preferences under the Florida Civil Rights Act. Construction Costs: A new analysis found construction pay in the Miami metro ranks last among big U.S. metros once living costs are factored in.

Aerospace & Defense Jobs: Space Coast Innovation Park broke ground at Space Coast Regional Airport in Titusville, targeting 900+ aerospace and defense jobs and up to 1.1 million sq. ft. of workspace across phases, with a possible $230M “Project Horseshoe” tenant in the mix. Unmanned Systems Manufacturing: MARTAC will add capacity for 100 Devil Ray USVs per year at SŌLACE Boats’ Edgewater facility, supporting U.S. Navy plans to scale from demos to operational fleets. Healthcare Manufacturing & Compliance: Michigan AG Dana Nessel announced a $384M Medicaid fraud settlement with Abbott over alleged noncompliant powder infant formula and nutritional therapy production. Pharma Quality Oversight: FDA issued a warning letter to Bausch & Lomb’s Florida site, citing gaps in aseptic processing and quality management. Construction Materials: UCF Lake Nona Medical Center is accelerating with prefabricated exterior wall panels, using StoPanel systems to meet Florida wind-load and schedule demands. Policy for Industry & Consumers: The U.S. House passed an AM radio-in-vehicles bill backed by Florida Rep. Gus Bilirakis, aiming to keep emergency broadcast access in new cars.

Grid & Workforce: NASA selected Space Florida for Project ORBIT, a $10.5M push to expand middle/high school pathways and connect Florida skilled workers with aerospace employers, with Space Florida Academy already growing across dozens of districts. Manufacturing Expansion: Hitachi Energy plans a $528M transformer plant in Gallman, Mississippi, aiming to start production in 2029 and more than double transformer output in the state. Florida Industry Compliance: The FDA issued a warning letter to Bausch & Lomb’s Florida site, citing quality-system and aseptic processing concerns after a March inspection. Cybersecurity Sales for Manufacturers: ThreatCaptain partnered with TD SYNNEX to give MSPs streamlined access to cybersecurity “financial-impact” selling tools across North America. Aerospace Contract: Lockheed Martin won an $826M U.S. contract modification for JASSM-ER and LRASM missile production, with deliveries targeted through 2030. Clean Energy Finance: A report says clean-energy developers are selling federal tax credits faster than buyers can absorb them, giving corporate buyers more leverage on pricing. Local Logistics: RenX’s Zimmer Equipment began a new Tampa Bay-area hauling route to a permitted landfill on Sept. 8, running daily under a trial agreement.

Health Policy & Consumer Relief: The White House says it will refund about $500 per person to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Florida, tied to alleged Obamacare “user fee” overcharges. EV Aftermarket & Retail: A new review highlights ten Tesla-focused service providers, pointing to a growing U.S. Tesla aftermarket as warranties fade and owners seek customization, protection, and repair. Defense Manufacturing: Lockheed Martin is pitching a modular concept for the AGM-158 JASSM family, aiming to reuse existing production infrastructure with interchangeable components. Marine Autonomy Production: Florida’s MARTAC will partner with SŌLACE Boats to scale Devil Ray unmanned surface vessel output by 100 units per year from a 200,000-square-foot facility. Industrial Deals: Q.E.P. (Boca Raton) completed its acquisition of Spray-Lock, adding spray-applied aerosol adhesive tech to expand flooring and wall installation offerings. Energy & Infrastructure: Aptamus Carbon Solutions and Demeter Energy are exploring a CO2 marine terminal at Seaport Manatee for liquefaction and loading for transport to sequestration sites. Local Growth Spotlight: Oxford Economics named Jacksonville a top North American “city to watch,” citing momentum in workforce and economic metrics.

Healthcare Policy: Trump says the federal government will refund about $500 per person in Obamacare “overcharges” to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Florida, tied to Biden-era exchange “user fees.” Public Health: Officials warn about cychlorphine, a synthetic drug reported as up to 10 times more potent than fentanyl, after a teen overdose death and a DEA scheduling move. Manufacturing & Materials: Q.E.P. (Boca Raton) completes its acquisition of Spray-Lock, expanding its spray-applied adhesives platform for flooring and wall applications. Local Growth: Toll Brothers breaks ground on Sawgrass Lakes in Babcock Ranch, with sales targeted for January 2027. Trade Pressure: A new report ranks Missouri among the hardest-hit states from tariffs, noting heavy costs for metals and auto parts—an issue Florida manufacturers watching supply-chain swings. Tech & Robotics: XTEND plans a Mexico manufacturing/integration hub (XTEND’s XFAB Mexico) to support robotics growth tied to defense and security needs. Florida Business/Jobs: Jacksonville earns Oxford Economics “City to Watch” recognition for 2027, citing productivity gains and diverse employment growth.

Defense Manufacturing Expansion: Tampa Brass & Aluminum will invest $58M in its Town ’N’ Country HQ and add 50 jobs (avg. $83,200) after winning military contracts, including roles for quality and nuclear engineering technicians. AI & Consumer Tech in Court: A federal judge sent Florida’s OpenAI/ Sam Altman consumer-protection case back to state court, limiting the state’s ability to keep it in federal court. Healthcare Supply Chain & Accountability: Abbott Laboratories agreed to pay $977.6M to resolve allegations tied to unsafe powder infant formula and nutritional therapy products—another reminder of how tightly regulated manufacturing failures can trigger major settlements. Local Governance & Industry Planning: Alachua City Commission tabled a data center discussion after a mayor abruptly killed a motion for a pause, with the dispute centering on jurisdiction and zoning. Trade & Jobs Risk: Trump’s threatened Bombardier jet ban is raising alarms among U.S. workers, including Florida service-center operations, as companies warn about potential market and supply-chain fallout. Energy Buildout: U.S. solar installations hit 11.4 GW in Q2 2026 (+45% YoY), with Florida adding 1.61 GW.

Defense Manufacturing: Lockheed Martin won an $825.97M Air Force contract modification to expand production of JASSM and LRASM missiles, with work in Orlando through 2030. Defense Manufacturing (Florida jobs): Tampa Brass & Aluminum will invest $58M in its Hillsborough HQ and add 50 jobs after landing military contracts, including roles in quality control, welding inspection, and nuclear engineering support. Defense Industrial Base: Nitradyn, a Florida-based explosives firm, secured a $581M Pentagon contract to build an IMX-104 energetic materials plant in Kentucky by 2030. Tech + Manufacturing Supply Chain: Andreessen Horowitz plans a $1.176B American Dynamism fund regional headquarters in West Palm Beach, targeting advanced manufacturing and defense-linked startups. Local Business + Compliance: FEDCON expanded to 264 businesses across 38 states to help small and mid-size firms win government contracts. Workforce Rules: A back-to-school guide breaks down federal child labor hour limits for minors and what employers should review now. Public Health (Florida impact): An FDA Alzheimer’s blood test recall remains open in 13 states, including Florida, after Fujirebio reported certain reagent lots could skew results.

Healthcare Policy: The White House says it will refund $500 per person to nearly 1 million Americans in 30 states, including Florida, tied to alleged Obamacare “user fee” overcharges. Defense Manufacturing: L3Harris’ Melbourne, Fla. base is tied to a historic $4.7B, seven-year Lockheed Martin contract for PAC-3 missile interceptor propulsion systems, a major capacity boost for U.S. air and missile defense. Autonomous Tech & Regulation: Tesla’s Cybercab robotaxi rollout in Austin is drawing scrutiny as NHTSA opens an audit of about 1,000 vehicles for federal safety compliance, highlighting how rules may shape real-world deployment. Trade & Industry Outreach: Trinidad and Tobago’s Manufacturers’ Association is sending a 37-member delegation to Miami (Sept. 13–18) to build export ties across food, tech, cybersecurity, beauty, and more. Florida Business & Crime: Hillsborough and Manatee detectives dismantled a credit card skimming and counterfeit card operation in Central Florida, seizing 154 fake cards and multiple skimmers. Construction Automation: New reporting says U.S. homebuilders are leaning on robotics and automation to offset labor shortages, with gains coming more from targeted site tools and prefabrication than full worker replacement.

Defense Manufacturing: L3Harris (Melbourne, FL) landed a $4.7B, seven-year Lockheed Martin contract to produce PAC-3 MSE propulsion systems, boosting interceptor “hit-to-kill” output and expanding wartime production capacity. Housing & Industrial Automation: With the U.S. short about 1.2M homes and nearly 300,000 construction jobs unfilled, builders are leaning harder on robotics, prefabrication, and automation—though gains are coming more from targeted site tools and workflow standardization than full worker replacement. EV Supply Chain Watch: A new Southeast electrification report says the region hit 1.137M cumulative EV sales, but EV manufacturing investment and jobs dipped for the first time in seven years amid consolidation and policy uncertainty. Local Business/Engineering Growth: Florida engineering firms are expanding services across industrial building design (Naples), telecom systems (Fort Lauderdale), aircraft ground support machinery (Fort Myers), and robotics engineering (Orlando). Fraud & Security: Hillsborough and Manatee detectives dismantled a Central Florida credit card skimming and counterfeit card operation, seizing devices and cards and arresting a suspect. Policy/Cost Pressures: Florida gas prices jumped 18 cents to $4.07 a gallon after Labor Day, tied to Strait of Hormuz shipping disruptions.