The building incorporates a combination of classroom and specialized technical-training environments to accommodate both academic instruction and hands-on learning. | Photo Credit: RG Architects
- Project: Heights CareerTech Institute
- Location: Fort Myers, Fla.
- Opening: Aug. 28, 2026
- Developer: The Heights Foundation
- Architect: RG Architects, P.A.
- MEP Engineer: Matern Professional Engineering
- Programming: Construction, automotive, marine, healthcare, business and other career fields
- Purpose: Hands-on post-secondary training, industry-recognized credentials and workforce development
- Reach: Expected to serve hundreds of students annually throughout Lee County and Southwest Florida
FORT MYERS, Fla. — The Heights Foundation has opened the new Heights CareerTech Institute, a post-secondary training facility designed to expand access to skilled-trades education and workforce opportunities in Southwest Florida.
The two-story institute opened Aug. 28 and will provide hands-on training and industry-recognized credentials in high-demand career fields. Programs will prepare students for careers in construction, automotive, marine, healthcare, business and other industries with significant workforce needs throughout the region.
Developed by the nonprofit Heights Foundation following years of planning, fundraising and community support, the institute is expected to serve hundreds of students annually from Lee County and surrounding communities. The facility is intended to connect students with career-focused educational opportunities while helping address regional demand for skilled workers.
RG Architects, P.A. designed the facility, with Matern Professional Engineering providing full mechanical, electrical and plumbing engineering services.
The building incorporates a combination of classroom and specialized technical-training environments to accommodate both academic instruction and hands-on learning. The project team designed the facility to support the varied infrastructure requirements of multiple career programs while providing a modern educational environment capable of adapting to workforce needs.
“As engineers, we know the future of our industry depends on creating opportunities for the next generation to learn and develop meaningful careers,” said Todd Griffith, PE, LEED AP BD+C, director of Matern Professional Engineering’s Southwest Florida division. “The Heights CareerTech Institute represents an investment in future talent and the long-term success of the Southwest Florida community.”
Griffith added that access to hands-on training and industry credentials can provide students with more direct pathways into rewarding careers.
The Heights Foundation developed the institute as part of a broader effort to increase educational opportunities, economic mobility and workforce readiness in Southwest Florida. By bringing career training programs together within a purpose-built facility, the organization aims to give students practical experience and credentials that align with regional employment opportunities.
The new institute also comes as the architecture, engineering and construction industries continue to emphasize the importance of developing the next generation of skilled professionals. Its construction-focused training is among several programs intended to provide students with pathways into industries critical to Southwest Florida’s continued growth.