1. International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF) - IFF is a global industry leader in food, beverage, scent, health, biosciences, and sensorial experiences. It is headquartered in New York City and has creative, sales, and manufacturing facilities in 47 countries. Join us for a tour of the new Citrus Innovation Center, a 27,000-square-foot, standalone building to support global citrus research and development located on Florida Polytechnic University’s campus. It includes sensory and experience venues, research labs, processing, analytical departments, a fully equipped citrus garden and amenities for hosting customers and partners.

2. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Aircraft Operations Center - NOTE: To participate in this tour, you must be a U.S. citizen and present a state-issued government ID or passport. - Located at Lakeland Linder International Airport, NOAA’s Aircraft Operations Center (AOC) serves as the central hub for all of the agency’s aviation operations. During the tour, you'll hear from aerospace engineer Nick Underwood, who will share insights into his work with NOAA and how advancements in remote sensing technology are transforming the way we study hurricanes.

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The AOC is home to a fleet of ten aircraft, including three specialized hurricane hunter planes and seven lighter aircraft. The hurricane hunters play a critical role in storm research and forecasting by collecting high-resolution data using onboard instruments and deploying remote-sensing devices—called "expendables"—that measure key atmospheric variables throughout the storm system.

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When not in hurricane season, these aircraft support a wide range of scientific missions. The lighter aircraft are also deployed for emergency response and damage assessment efforts following natural disasters such as the California wildfires, Hurricanes Milton and Helene, and severe flooding in Texas. In addition, they contribute to a variety of scientific endeavors, including snow runoff surveys and tracking endangered species.

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Join us for this exclusive tour that offers a behind-the-scenes look at NOAA’s aviation operations and the innovative technologies that help scientists better understand and respond to environmental challenges.

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