In this episode of Elevate Polk, Chrissanne Long and Dan Thumberg sit down with Omar Arroyo, a Polk County entrepreneur, construction business owner, Haines City public servant, husband, and father whose story reaches far beyond a title.
Omar shares his journey from Mexico to Texas and eventually to Haines City, where what began as a short-term work opportunity became the place he chose to build his life. From learning the trades and starting his own crew without speaking English, to building a business with his brothers and stepping into local leadership, Omar’s story is one of work ethic, resilience, humility, and purpose.
This conversation explores the power of skilled trades, the barriers that can exist for first-generation and minority entrepreneurs, the importance of relationships and networking, and why opening doors for the next generation matters. Omar also reflects on representation, becoming the first Hispanic elected commissioner in Haines City, and how personal experiences, including his family’s journey navigating autism resources, have shaped the way he sees service and community.
This is not a campaign interview. It is a story about building a life, building a business, and helping shape a Polk County where more people can find the path, the support, and the opportunity they need to move forward.
In this episode, we talk about:
✔️ Omar’s journey from Mexico to Haines City
✔️ Learning English while building a career in construction
✔️ The trades as a pathway to opportunity
✔️ Starting and growing a family business
✔️ Barriers facing minority and first-generation entrepreneurs
✔️ Representation and civic leadership
✔️ Why relationships open doors
✔️ Creating clearer pathways for students, families, and future business owners
✔️ How stories help shape the culture of a community
Like, subscribe, and follow ElevatePolk for more honest conversations about business, leadership, economic development, and the future of Polk County.
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Podcast: Available on Apple Podcasts and Spotify
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Central Florida Business Expo | https://CFLBE.com
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