Emerald Coast Technical College (ECTC), in partnership with Walton County School District, has been awarded $201,961 through the Florida Department of Education’s Workforce Development Capitalization Incentive Grant Program (Workforce CAP). The funding will provide state-of-the-art simulation equipment, tools, and supplies for ECTC’s Electricity and Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R) 1 programs.
Part of Florida’s $40 Million Workforce Investment
The award is part of a broader $40 million statewide investment announced by Florida Department of Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas to expand and modernize workforce education programs in high-demand industries. Since its inception in 2023, the Workforce CAP initiative has directed more than $240 million into programs that prepare students with hands-on training aligned with Florida’s top workforce needs.
“Florida’s workforce is stronger than ever because we are investing directly in students and the programs that prepare them for success,” said Commissioner Kamoutsas. “This $40 million investment expands opportunities across the state, giving students access to cutting-edge training and ensuring Florida remains the best place to build a career.”
Direct Benefits for Walton County Students
With this funding, ECTC will:
Upgrade training labs with advanced simulation systems for Electricity and Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R) 1 instruction
Equip students with modern tools and technologies that mirror real-world job sites
Expand program capacity to serve more students in high-demand fields with a focus on more access for dual students
Strengthen workforce readiness by aligning training with employer expectations and certification requirements
These upgrades will ensure students gain valuable, hands-on experience that prepares them to step directly into skilled trade careers upon graduation.
Building a Strong Local Workforce
Walton County’s growing communities rely on skilled electricians and HVAC/R technicians to support both residential and commercial development. By securing this Workforce CAP funding, ECTC is reinforcing its role as a vital contributor to the local economy while opening new opportunities for students to pursue rewarding technical careers.
A Future-Focused Commitment
This award highlights the commitment of Walton County School District and Emerald Coast Technical College to workforce education that keeps pace with industry needs. With the addition of modern training equipment and expanded program capacity, ECTC is well positioned to remain a leader in technical education and workforce preparation for Northwest Florida.
Go to FLDOE to see all the schools in the state of Florida that were also awarded these funds.