History & Mission

Florida Academy opened as a beauty school in Fort Myers, Florida, in 1990, offering training in massage and skin care. The school soon expanded to programs in cosmetology and nails. Since the beginning, its main goal was to help students find careers they love in their field of choosing. Later, with an ever-increasing demand for air conditioning and refrigeration careers in the area, Florida Academy added a technical and trade component of its education with its HVAC/R program.

In 2011, Florida Academy became nationally accredited with the Council on Occupational Education. Since then, the school has enjoyed additional growth along with an expanded program offering focused on today’s growing industries and has remained committed to helping students find great jobs and build sustainable careers.

In 2022, Florida Academy further expanded its career training programs to include Electrical Technology and Electronic Systems Technology.

Florida Academy enjoys widespread recognition for its quality educational offerings and top-notch graduates. For this reason, Florida Academy is recognized as the “Best of South West Florida” when it comes to education, winning the Natural Awakenings “Best Holistic School” Award and maintaining an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau. Florida Academy also is routinely spotlighted in the Fort Myers News Press newspaper for its innovative programs, its job fairs and its knowledge of employment statistics and trends for the industries it serves.

Florida Academy offers programs that can be completed in less than a year, preparing students to launch careers their passionate about. We offer programs in:

Beauty & Wellness:

• Cosmetology
• Nail Technology
• Massage Therapy
• Skin Care
• Restricted Barbering

Trade & Industrial:

• HVAC/R Technology
• Electrical Technology

In order to continue providing students with quality training, Florida Academy keeps investing in the same method that has led to its success: instructors with professional experience and a passion for the field they are working in, a curriculum that is in tune with the latest trends and a well-rounded education that blends theoretical instruction with hands-on training.

At Florida Academy, you will also find a Career Services team ready to help. The services are available for students and graduates. Florida Academy offers services for employers, too, assisting on candidate searches and on-campus job listings.

Florida Academy is a military-friendly school, offering special conditions for veterans and their families. All candidates will also find multiple financial aid options for those who apply.

MISSION

Florida Academy strives to educate students to become highly skilled professionals who are sensitive to the needs of their clients and themselves. We encourage the greatest personal and professional growth for students by providing a nurturing and respectful education community.

VISION

Florida Academy is an institution committed to transforming people’s lives through providing a learning environment that fosters personal commitment to students through active engagement by faculty, staff and alumni. The school prepares students for personal and professional success by emphasizing work skills, accountability, and community involvement.

VALUES

Florida Academy enhances the mission and vision by promoting the following values: engagement, community service, diversity, respect, and continuous quality improvement.