The Cradle of Naval Aviation – Pensacola is a great place to start your career, especially if you’re seeking lower lifestyle costs while enjoying the Blue Angels soar in the sky.
It has an average salary of 16 USD per hour for Skilled Workers and can range up to 40 USD per hour depending on your expertise.
Here are 10 of the most reputable trade schools in the area:
George Stone Technical College
About the School
Established in 1968, George Stone Technical College was one of the first vocational training centers in Florida.
Eventually, the school expanded with branches expanded to cater to more educational opportunities and provide dual enrollment with its surrounding high schools.
With 28 different study programs, the institution boasts accreditation from the Council on Occupational Education.
The school highlights non-discrimination in the community and is also a tobacco-free campus.
Courses Offered
George Stone Technical College offers a wide range of courses that either prepare you for licensure examinations or entry-level positions.
There are two main courses dedicated to supporting the aviation industry which is known to be popular within the area.
Moreover, the school also promotes courses on humanities and public service such as Criminal Justice and Correctional Officer.
Aside from that, the school also dedicates a chance for students who wish to have on-the-job training from their respective employers through Cooperative Education.
Note that this program is attached to one’s chosen field and is only eligible for certain courses.
Here are the trade courses available at George Stone Technical College:
- Business
- Accounting Operations
- Administrative Office Specialist
- Computer Systems & Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Medical Administrative Specialist
- Network Support Services (CISCO)
- Network Systems Administration
- Health
- Emergency Medical Technician
- Public Services
- Correctional Officer
- Firefighter
- Florida Law Enforcement Academy
- Industrial
- Automotive Collision Technology
- Automotive Service Technology
- Aviation Airframe Mechanics
- Aviation Powerplant Mechanics
- Baking & Pastry Arts
- Cosmetology
- Electricity
- Heating, Ventilation, Air-Conditioning/Refrigeration (HVAC/R)
- Marine Service Technology
- Professional Culinary Arts & Hospitality
- Welding Technology
- Other Educational Opportunities
- Adult Basic Education (ABE)
- Adult General Education (GED)
- Applied Academics for Adult Education (AAAE)
- Apprenticeships
- Cooperative Education
Contact
- George Stone Technical College
- Address: 2400 Longleaf Dr, Pensacola, FL 32526
- Phone: (850) 941-6200
- Website: https://www.georgestonecenter.com
Fortis Institute
About the School
Fortis Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and licensed by the Commission for Independent Education, making it a prompt choice for students looking for great trade schools in the area.
Its associate nursing program is also recognized by the Accreditation Commission for Education in Nursing (ACEN).
Without a doubt, the school offers quality education in preparation for licensure examinations.
The Fortis Institute offers a variety of courses in which students can choose their field without worrying about having big classes.
With top-of-the-line teachers, the school is able to offer competitive practical training and knowledge even to those who wish to go back and continue their education.
Also, the institute offers courses on the American Heart Association Basic Life Support for Healthcare Providers (BLS).
Courses Offered
The skill trade program available under the Fortis Institute is the HVAC-Refrigeration.
With complete lessons in installation, builds, and safety, this program opens up the door to technicians working for companies and general contractors under large partner organizations.
For nursing, healthcare/medical, and dental programs, the course aims to create a pathway for entry-level employment after acquiring a license.
The school also offers lessons on Massage Therapy which have become popular in the industry over the years, as it is a versatile program that can be applied in a variety of industries – spas or salons, cruise ships, and hotels.
Under the same program is cosmetology which is also directed towards passing the state licensing exam.
Programs:
- Nursing Programs
- Skilled Trades
- Healthcare/Medical Programs
- Dental Programs
- Beauty and Wellness Programs
Contact
- Fortis Institute
- Address: 4081 East Olive Road, Suite B, Pensacola, FL 32514
- Phone: (850) 476-7607
- Website: https://www.fortis.edu/campuses/florida/pensacola.html
Pensacola School of Massage Therapy and Health Careers
About the School
The Pensacola School of Massage Therapy and Health Careers is accredited by the Council on Occupational Education and approved by the Florida Board of Massage Therapy.
It also has a Florida State Licensed program.
It provides the finest hands-on training for its two primary programs.
The school offers financial aid for students who want to reach their career goals under the short-term programs.
Entering entry-level positions is the top vision of the institution for its graduates.
As such, it also helps in job placements even before graduation.
Courses Offered
There are only two main courses offered by the Pensacola School of Massage Therapy and Health Careers and they have day and night class schedules.
The Massage Therapy Program has been established since 1995 and provides students with the essential training to meet theory and practice.
It allows students to venture into different workplaces such as physical rehabilitation centers, chiropractic clinics, health clubs, resort spas, cruise ships, university athletic departments, and more.
The program also has a clinic wherein students can show off their skills to the public and attract future employers.
The demand for Medical Assistants has increased since the pandemic.
The school offers a program that orients students on the broad spectrum of entry-level positions they might acquire.
It’s an all-rounder course that includes phlebotomy techniques, 12 lead EKG procedures, specimen collection, infection control and safety measures, and more.
It also includes an externship that enhances the skills of a student in a real medical environment.
Programs:
- Massage Therapy
- Medical Assistant
Contact
- Pensacola School of Massage Therapy and Health Careers
- Address: 2409 Creighton Road, Pensacola, Florida 32504
- Phone: 850-780-3963
- Website: https://psmthc.com
Gulf Coast Institute of Career Development
About the School
Aside from its training school, the Gulf Coast Institute of Career Development is a thriving business that’s run by experts in the fields.
It also promotes key products used by the institution for facial care and nail care.
Currently, programs and their prices shall be available based on request on their email website.
The programs can’t also be purchased or booked.
All information needs to be directly collected by the student from the institution through phone calls.
Course Offered
The Gulf Coast Institute of Career Development offers two main courses that run schedules within the whole week from Monday to Friday 9 AM to 5 PM.
For more information, aspiring students are advised to contact the institution through a phone call.
Programs:
- Facial Specialty
- Nail Specialty
Contact
- Gulf Coast Institute of Career Development
- Address: 2415 W Cervantes St, Pensacola, FL 32505
- Phone: (850) 435-7675
- Website: https://gulfcoastinstitutecareer.square.site/
Pensacola State College
About the School
Built in 1984 the institution was first founded as the Pensacola Junior College.
It’s one of the oldest colleges in the area.
Since then, it has extended to six different locations of convenience, including the Pensacola State College in Milton and Warrington.
Now, the school offers more than 100 programs as well as certificate courses.
In addition, it has associate degrees that can guarantee you transfer to one of the 12 Florida State universities.
The school also takes pride in having a 100% job placement for graduates of technical courses.
Dual enrollment, Continuing Education, and GED programs are also available.
Courses Offered
Pensacola State College offers different certificate programs that are classified into Advanced Technical Certificates (ATC), College Credit Certificate programs, and Vocational Certificates (Clock Hour).
The ATC is only open to students who have already completed an associate degree and desire to hone their skills more.
Hence, it also caters doors for baccalaureate programs, given that one should meet the requisites upon enrolment.
Meanwhile, the College Credit Certificate programs focus on entry-level skills, to help prepare students for immediate employment.
Similarly, the Vocational Certificate has the same purpose but is tagged with different specialties.
Here are the programs available:
- Accounting Technology Management
- Barbering
- Carpentry
- Central Supply Technician
- CNC Composite Fabricator/Programmer
- Commercial Vehicle Driver
- Cosmetology
- Culinary Arts
- Electrocardiograph Technician
- Manufacturing Automation Specialist
- Welding Technology
Contact
- Pensacola State College
- Address: 1000 College Blvd. Pensacola, FL 32504
- Phone: (850) 484-1000
- Website: https://www.pensacolastate.edu
University of West Florida
About the School
An institution that encourages students to face challenges head-on, the University of West Florida is one of the most reputable institutions in Pensacola.
The university provides higher education, graduate courses, and even certificate programs to cater to students of all ages.
The university is one of the top main campuses in the local area of Pensacola but extends its reach to international borders.
Since the school has more than 100 graduate and undergraduate programs, it has a wide-scope alumni network that allows for a major economic impact in Florida.
It also has a small-scale classroom ratio of 21 students to one instructor to give you a more focused learning experience.
Courses Offered
Aside from their major programs that have in-class setups, the University of West Florida offers online degrees that you can take from anywhere in the world.
The institution highly believes in an education that leads to a better future and tries its best to reduce the limitations by having virtual classrooms.
Two main types of programs are Certificate Programs and Graduate Certificate Programs.
The Graduate Certificate programs are for non-degree-seeking students.
For example, the Graduate Certificate Program in Cybersecurity Management is only open to students pursuing an MBA with a Cybersecurity Management emphasis.
- Cybersecurity Certificate
- Database Systems Certificate
- Geographic Information Science Certificate
- Human Resources Certificate
- Technologist in Clinical Chemistry
- Technologist in Hematology
- And more
Contact
- University of West Florida
- Address: 11000 University Pkwy, Pensacola, FL 32514
- Phone: 850.474.2000
- Website: https://uwf.edu
Cindy Cassady School of Electrology Health & Beauty
About the School
The Cindy Cassady School of Electrology Health & Beauty offers one of the most unique programs – electrology.
It’s the only institution in Florida offering such a course.
The school also provides students with small classroom sizes to have personalized attention and flexibility in educational setup.
The Florida State Approving Agency approves the institution to certify for Veterans Education benefits.
Another advantage is the school’s proximity. It’s located just within a 3-mile radius of the Pensacola International Airport (PNS).
It’s also near the downtown area and the Pensacola Beach is just 15 miles away.
Courses Offered
The Cindy Cassady School of Electrology Health & Beauty operates from Monday to Thursday starting from 9 AM to 6:30 PM.
On Friday it starts at the same hour but only until 5 PM.
The facilities are equipped with the best machines that assist in aesthetic programs.
The sole program that the institution provides in all of Florida is the Electrology Program which teaches students about electrolysis.
Not only does this help in their career, but it also paves the way for opening a business in the field and growing an income.
Since this is a unique course, locals may look for experts that are limited in number.
If you want a more general course, you can also try the Facial Specialist which allows you to focus on the face of a patient and learn about chemical treatments, exfoliation, anatomy and physiology, and the like.
It prepares you to become a licensed facial specialist that helps clients boost confidence in their rejuvenated facials.
Programs:
- Electrology
- Facial Specialist
Contact
- Cindy Cassady School of Electrology Health & Beauty
- Address: 2995 Langley Avenue, Pensacola FL 32504
- Phone: 850-478-3362
- Website: https://www.electrolysisschools.com
Pensacola Christian College
About the School
The Pensacola Christian College is a Christian school that started way back in 1974.
It is prominent for promoting educational growth alongside spiritual empowerment.
The institution offers undergraduate courses, graduate courses, and online dual enrollment, and is a Category IV institution recognized by the TRACS Accreditation Commission.
It has 61 study programs and a high rate of debt-free graduates.
The school also caters promotion to competitive students who are skilled and have a high chance of employment, within the year after their graduation.
As it is a Christian school, expect more religious activities and Sunday Reflections.
Courses Offered
The Pensacola Christian College is a notable seminary institution; hence it also has an array of courses to cater to continuing programs such as visuals, performing arts, and nursing.
Some courses are held online and depend on the term of the subject being offered.
In addition, these programs have specific credit hours and could be of great value to be added to your career path.
It also offers the same instruction as on-campus classes, but you can choose whichever is more convenient for you.
Visual Arts Department:
- Master of Arts in Graphic Design or Studio Art
- Master of Fine Arts in Graphic Design or Studio Art
Performing Arts Department:
- Master of Arts in Music
- Master of Fine Arts in Dramatics
Contact
- Pensacola Christian College
- Address: 250 Brent Lane, Pensacola, FL, U.S.A.
- Phone: 850-478-8496
- Website: https://www.pcci.edu
Pensacola Air Flight School
About the School
Being a pilot is one of the best jobs in Pensacola.
A career in flight school prompts an unparalleled skill that can be advantageous to your professional career.
The Pensacola Air Flight School can be a great stepping stone to your future career.
It’s under the Pensacola Air that also runs a business on aircraft rentals.
As such, you don’t need to worry about hands-on training because the school is already equipped with the best materials.
All of the instructors within the school are FAA-certified Flight Instructors with multiple years of experience in flying different types of aircraft.
The school offers courses on first-time flight training, re-qualification training, and individual-type ratings.
Indeed, the school does offer the best training from pilots to fellow future pilots.
Courses Offered
As a starter pilot, you can opt to get the Recreational Pilot program under the Pensacola Air Flight School.
This is the best low-cost option for your dream career.
The course only takes ten hours or less and is a primary requirement before taking the Private Pilot program.
The Private Pilot program is the start of an aviation flight career.
It opens doors to new opportunities for personal flying or being a pilot for hire.
If you want to up-level that skill, you can opt for the Advanced Pilot Training and even learn how to teach others through the Certified Flight Instructor programs.
Here are the Flying programs available:
Initial Pilot Training
- Recreational Pilot
- Private Pilot
Advanced Pilot Training
- Instrument Rating
- Commercial Rating
Certified Flight Instructor
- Flight Instructor Certificate (CFI)
- Flight Instructor Instrument (CFII)
Contact
- Pensacola Air Flight School
- Address: 4343 Jerry L Maygarden Road, Pensacola, Florida 32504
- Phone: 850-316-8825
- Website: https://kpnsair.com
Classic Real Estate School
About the School
The Classic Real Estate School has different branches across the United States such as in Alabama and Mississippi.
Each year, the school proves it is more than just a business, and prompts more activities, such as its educational venture of helping others start their real estate careers.
Additionally, the school is already connected to real estate companies which translates to licensed teachers having more experience in the field and future job placements for graduates.
Here, courses run through a live online setup and courses could be as low as 185 USD.
Courses Offered
The Classic Real Estate School offers courses on the different fields of real estate, specializing in both sales associates and brokers.
The Sales Associate course is a 63-hour pre-licensing program, and the Broker Program runs for around 72 hours; either of these courses is where you can begin your career.
If you’re ready to take on the next challenge after you get your license, you can opt for the 45-hour Sales Associate Post-licensing course or the 60-hour broker post-licensing course.
You can also take it further by getting the 14-hour continuing course in both sales and broker under one program.
The school also offers the 28-hour Sales and Broker – Reinstatement program and the 6-hour Sales and Broker – State Law which is an essential lesson to have when working in the field.
- Real Estate
- Mortgage Loan Officer
- Home Inspector
Contact
- Classic Real Estate School
- Address: 400 West Robinson Street, N801, Orlando, FL 32801
- Phone: 850.487.1395
- Website: https://www.classicrealestateschool.com
Trade Schools in Florida by City
Final Thoughts
Starting your career with an esteemed institution is a convenient way to build your skills and professional background in a skilled trade.
You definitely would want to check the features and programs in each trade school to gauge correctly which is best for you.