The School District of Lee County cut the ribbon today on a major expansion at Cape Coral Technical College, launching five new workforce training programs and welcoming Nor-Tech Hi-Performance Boats as the college's first-ever Founding Industry Partner.
"Today is about opportunity," said Dr. Denise Carlin, Superintendent of the School District of Lee County. "The programs in this building were designed hand in hand with local employers, which means our students train on the same equipment and to the same standards they will find on the job. That is how we build a pipeline of skilled talent right here in Lee County, and help our students launch careers close to home."
The new programs span three high-demand sectors: Transportation, Manufacturing, and Architecture & Construction. Training areas include marine service technology, a natural fit for a city with more than 400 miles of canals, along with pathways for future HVAC technicians, welders, mechanics, and construction professionals. The expansion also opens new dual-enrollment opportunities for high school students and new pathways for adult learners.
As the Marine Academy's first-ever Founding Industry Partner, Nor-Tech Hi-Performance Boats has committed at least $100,000 through 2030 in financial support, equipment, technical expertise, and industry collaboration, ensuring students in the college's "Career in a Year" program train using the same technologies and standards used in the marine industry today. Nor-Tech Chief Operating Officer Henrik Margard presented an initial $20,000 donation during the ceremony.
“At Nor-Tech, we believe that investing in education is an investment in our community’s future,” said Nor-Tech Chief Operating Officer Henrik Margård. “The students at Cape Coral Technical College are developing the technical skills, work ethic, and passion that will strengthen our local workforce and drive innovation for years to come. Being a good corporate citizen means more than building great products—it means giving back, creating opportunities, and partnering with organizations that make a lasting difference. Nor-Tech is proud to stand alongside Cape Coral Technical College in that mission.”
"At Cape Coral Technical College, our mission is simple: prepare students for employment, and our industry partners make that possible," said Charlie Pease, Director of Cape Coral Technical College. "Nor-Tech's commitment gives our Marine Academy students access to the technology and expertise that will set them apart in the workforce. Less than a year ago, this was an empty lot. To open these doors today is a credit to everyone who shared this vision."
The site was once home to Hector Cafferata Elementary School, which was severely damaged by Hurricane Ian in September 2022. The Cafferata community will celebrate the ribbon cutting on its new K-8 campus on August 5 at 10 a.m.
Cape Coral Technical College has served the community since 1993 and now offers 19 programs, working with hundreds of local business partners who help shape curriculum, provide work-based learning, and hire graduates.