SPEAKERS

December 6, 2021

Gordon Gillette is the CEO of the Early Learning Coalition of Hillsborough County, serving in that capacity since March 2018. Prior to his current position, Gordon had a 36-year career with TECO Energy, retiring as CEO of Tampa Electric and President of its Florida operations. He also served as CFO of TECO Energy for more than 11 years prior to becoming president of Tampa Electric.

With a passion for education, this career shift from energy to education seems like an easy one. The board’s unanimous choice for CEO, Gillette started off with a plan to reduce waiting lists for the coalition’s programs and services. The coalition provides early childhood care, education, and advocacy for approximately 20,000 Hillsborough county children and their families. Gordon, and the coalition, are dedicated to building the supports that all children need to succeed.

Gordon is a graduate of the University of South Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree in Mechanical Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Engineering Management. He also attended Harvard's Advanced Management Program. Gordon is a graduate of Chamberlain High School.

Gordon has chaired the boards of the Children’s Museum of Tampa, the Hillsborough Education Foundation, the Leadership Council of the Consortium of Florida Education Foundations, and the University of South Florida Foundation, where he co-chaired the second phase of the successful USF’s Unstoppable campaign.