On September 2, 2025, the Institutional Advisory Council (IAC) at Emerald Coast Technical College (ECTC) convened on the main campus to finalize and approve key initiatives that will shape the future of the institution. With a packed agenda and a clear focus on student success, workforce readiness, and accreditation, the meeting led by Lisa Jones, ECTC Student Services Dean, marked an important step in preparing ECTC for the 2025–2027 school years.
Strategic Plan & Mission Statement Approved
The meeting began with the unanimous approval of the 2025–2027 Strategic Plan. The plan places a strong emphasis on three pillars: improving student attendance, increasing program completion rates, and ensuring successful job placement after graduation. Mrs. Diana Gillis will spearhead the plan's implementation, ensuring it adapts to the changing needs of both students and employers.
The team also reaffirmed the college’s mission statement:
“We prepare and empower today’s students to meet the demands of an evolving and competitive workforce.”
Retaining the mission statement reinforces ECTC’s commitment to a workforce-focused identity.
Accreditation Preparation Underway A significant portion of the meeting focused on the upcoming Council on Occupational Education (COE) reaffirmation process. A preliminary visit is scheduled for September 15–17, followed by the full team visit from October 27–30. Both campus sites will be reviewed.
An industry dinner is also in the works for the first evening of the full visit to welcome the COE team and engage with community partners. More details will follow the preliminary review.
Career Fair Plans Moving Forward
ECTC will host its district-wide Career Fair on Friday, November 7. The event will welcome high school students in the morning and be open to the public and adult learners in the afternoon. Jesse Spaid is spearheading the vendor coordination.
Exploring New Learning Models & Funding Opportunities
In alignment with national trends and evolving student needs, the team discussed the potential implementation of hybrid learning models after the COE visit. This would combine academic content online with hands-on labs on campus to expand access and flexibility.
In addition, Brooke Adam, Financial Aid Officer, led the discussion around Workforce Pell funding, focusing on developing short-term (199–600 hours) programs that align with anticipated federal support and employer demand. These 12-week, job-entry pathways could provide rapid upskilling opportunities beginning in school year 2026–2027.
Celebrating Growth and Student Success
Mr. Smithart, ECTC director, also highlighted recent achievements in enrollment and certification:
📈 33% increase in total enrollment
🎓 58% increase in dual enrollment
🏅 53% increase in certifications earned
These numbers reflect the growing impact of ECTC’s programs on the community and local workforce.
Looking Ahead
With strategic goals approved and a roadmap for accreditation and new program models taking shape, ECTC remains focused on its mission to serve students and meet the workforce needs of the Florida Panhandle. The next few months promise to be busy—and exciting—as the college continues to grow, evolve, and deliver opportunity across all campuses.
The meeting concluded with lunch and offered an optional campus tour for our new members. With strategic goals in place and major events ahead, ECTC is well-positioned for continued success and innovation.