OKEECHOBEE — The 10th Annual Okeechobee Touch-A-Truck event, held Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Okeechobee County Agri-Civic Center, welcomed more than 2,000 attendees for a day of hands-on learning, career exploration, and family-friendly community engagement. Hosted in partnership with the Okeechobee County Economic Development Corporation (OCEDC), the free event brought together over 30 local businesses and organizations, offering children and families a unique opportunity to see, touch, and interact with the vehicles and equipment that help keep Okeechobee running every day.

From a garbage truck provided by WM (Waste Management) demonstrating the new hands-free dumping system, to cranes from Beyel Brothers, the South Florida Water Management District, to the helicopter provided by Florida Fish and Wildlife conservation Commission, the event showcased the wide range of career paths available within the region. Okeechobee County Fire Rescue provided a special agility course where children could try kid-sized bunker gear and test their skills as future firefighters. The Okeechobee County Sheriff’s Office gave young attendees the chance to climb inside the SWAT vehicle and activate patrol car sirens. The OCSD K9 Unit was present giving live demonstrations and providing meet and greets with the attendees.

“This event is about more than trucks—it’s about exposure, inspiration, and opportunity,” said Alex Tijerina, Director of Existing Industries for the OCEDC. “When children can see and experience the tools used by the professionals in their own community, it helps them begin to imagine their future. Touch-A-Truck also creates meaningful opportunities for local businesses to connect with families and demonstrate the vital role they play in supporting our community and economy.”

Mrs. Tijerina, who has facilitated the Touch-A-Truck event since its inception, shared her excitement about its continued growth and evolving impact. “It has been incredibly rewarding to watch this event grow over the past ten years. What began as a fun community activity has become an important opportunity for early career exploration. My hope is that these experiences help our children discover their interests and see a future for themselves right here in Okeechobee—contributing to our workforce, strengthening our economy, and building the next generation of community leaders.”

The OCEDC proudly partners to facilitate Touch-A-Truck as part of its mission to support business retention, workforce development, and long-term economic vitality. By introducing children to careers in public safety, construction, utilities, transportation, and skilled trades, the event helps build awareness of the diverse opportunities available locally.

The Touch-A-Truck event was held in conjunction with the 19th Annual Okeechobee Family Health and Safety Expo, which provided families with valuable health, safety, and community resource information alongside engaging activities for all ages. Attendees participated in the combined event, gaining a better understanding of local services while enjoying demonstrations, children’s activities, and free lunch provided by the Okeechobee Families Health and Safety Expo. The collaborative event continues to strengthen community connections, while promoting both family wellness and workforce awareness.

The OCEDC extends its sincere appreciation to presenting sponsors Florida Power & Light and the Education Foundation of Okeechobee for their leadership and investment in workforce development and youth engagement. Additional sponsors included Maschmeyer Concrete, CWR Contracting, Miller’s Central Air, Inc., Major’s Truck Repair, Whiting Roofing, Proctor Construction, and 1 Stop Party Shop.

The success of the 10th Annual Touch-A-Truck event reflects the strength of Okeechobee’s business community and its shared commitment to investing in the next generation. The OCEDC thanks all participating businesses, volunteers, sponsors, and families for their continued support in helping inspire Okeechobee’s future workforce. Coverage from this year’s Touch a Truck and information on next year’s event can be found by following the Okeechobee Touch a Truck Facebook page.

For more information about workforce development initiatives or upcoming community engagement opportunities or ways to participate in and support the 2027 Okeechobee Touch a Truck, please visit www.ocedcorp.com or email alex@ocedcorp.com.