Summary of Services
- Adult Education: English language (ESL) classes and high school diploma/GED preparation
- Career & Technical Training: Programs in Health Sciences, Information Technology, Law & Public Safety, and more
- Short-Term Training: Courses in aircraft fabrication, public safety, and natural gas vehicle maintenance
- Dual Enrollment: Opportunities for high school students to earn college credit
- Workforce Education & Conference Center: Training and event hosting for local businesses
- Early Childhood Programs: Head Start, VPK, and ESE Pre-K services
- Student-Run Facilities: Knot Just Hair Salon, Walter's Reef Café, Agricultural Nursery, Tech Tots Child Care
Providing Specialized, Career-Focused Training and Education
First Coast Technical College (FCTC), formerly known as First Coast Technical Institute, underwent its transition to a college in 2007. Since then, it has continued to expand its impact across Clay, Putnam, and St. Johns counties by providing accessible, career-focused education. FCTC is committed to equipping students with the certifications and practical skills needed to advance their careers, while also addressing the workforce demands of the surrounding community.
The college offers programs tailored to meet the needs of both traditional and non-traditional learners. Adult education classes are available for individuals seeking to enhance their English language skills or pursue a high school diploma or GED. FCTC also offers short-term training courses in specialized fields, including aircraft fabrication, public safety, and natural gas vehicle maintenance, which is ideal for those seeking to enter the workforce quickly or enhance their existing skills.
Programs in Information Technology and Health Sciences
Information Technology offerings include in-demand fields like cybersecurity, while the Law and Public Safety division features training in firefighting and emergency medical services. Manufacturing students can enroll in welding programs, including evening classes to accommodate varying schedules. In the Health Sciences department, students can pursue credentials in dental assisting, emergency medical technician (EMT), paramedic, and practical nursing, with a new surgical technology program launching soon.
Courses in Hospitality, HVAC, and Agriculture
For those interested in hospitality and personal services, FCTC provides instruction in professional culinary arts. Human services programs include cosmetology, nail specialty, and facial specialty. Students with an interest in architecture and construction can enroll in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration (HVAC/R) courses. In the field of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources, FCTC offers training in landscape and turf management as well as nursery operations. The college also supports early childhood education training and offers dual enrollment options for high school students seeking to advance their career paths.
Steps and Requirements for Enrollment
Enrollment at FCTC involves steps to ensure students are well-prepared and informed. Prospective students are required to visit the campus and attend a program-specific information session. They are also required to apply for financial aid, submit transcripts from previous institutions, complete the application before the stated deadline, and attend a registration appointment. Full payment of fees is required at the time of registration to secure a place in the chosen program. Additional information regarding tuition and course duration can be found on the FCTC website, as program lengths may vary.
Fostering Student Achievement and Community Engagement Through the College
FCTC is deeply invested in the success and well-being of its students. The college partners with Care Connect to help students access community-based services and works with Healthy Families – St. Johns to support pregnant women and young families. Inner Explorer provides students with a free mindfulness and stress management app. FCTC also hosts a career center, providing students with the tools and guidance they need to secure employment opportunities.
In partnership with CareerSource Northeast Florida, Career Navigators is a dedicated program designed to support young adults aged 16 to 24 in achieving their educational and career goals. The program helps participants obtain their GED or high school diploma while also providing pathways to further education and training in high-demand industries and offers financial assistance to help remove common barriers to success.
This includes funding for childcare, tuition, textbooks, and transportation, making it easier for young adults to focus on their studies and career preparation. The program also offers valuable paid work experience opportunities, enabling participants to acquire hands-on skills and establish professional connections in their chosen fields.
By combining education, training, financial support, and work experience, Career Navigators empowers youth to build strong foundations for their futures and meet the workforce needs of today's economy. For more detailed information or to get involved, please visit https://fctc.edu/future/career-navigators.
It provides workforce education and training for local industries, hosts events at its conference center, and offers access to early childhood education programs, including Head Start, Voluntary Pre-Kindergarten (VPK), and Exceptional Student Education (ESE) Pre-K. The campus also features student-run facilities, including Knot Just Hair Salon, Walter'Walter'safé, the Agricultural Nursery, and Tech Tots Child Care, which provide students with hands-on learning experiences while benefiting the local community.
Assisting Veterans and Their Families
Beyond academic offerings, FCTC serves as a valuable community resource, proudly supporting veterans and military families by offering free services to help them achieve their academic and career goals. Dedicated assistance is available through the college's Liaison Office. Interested individuals can contact the office via email at Financialaid@FCTC.edu or by calling (904) 547-3505 for personalized support.