Your Future Starts Today

The Future Career Academy began as a partnership between Hillsborough County Public Schools and the business community in 2015 to disrupt the cycle of dead-end or low-paying jobs for non-college bound students and to put them on the path to in-demand, living wage entry-level jobs in their communities with long-term career growth and sustained employment.

Students not attending college need to be prepared and connected to the great jobs and career paths in our communities. They need quality jobs, and businesses in our community need a prepared workforce in order to grow and meet their hiring needs.

The Future Career Academy model is meant to be replicated and sustainable in communities to tie together geographically-defined businesses and schools. It is currently serving more than 5,000 students at 10 Hillsborough County high schools. All English 4 and English 4 Honors students are enrolled. Continued expansion plans to serve the whole county are underway.

MISSION

Preparing and Connecting students to the great jobs in their community

STRATEGY

Full-year integrated approach in the classroom and in partnership with the community focused on students not attending college

Who:
All English 4 and English 4 Honors students enrolled in the Future Career Academy.
Our Curriculum:
  • Workforce development assignments such as resume writing, interviewing skills, dress for success, how to advance in a career, etc.
  • Educational videos such as internships and certifications programs overview, as well as industry sector videos highlighting starting positions, salaries and opportunities for advancement
  • Financial literacy to introduce financial concepts and good money management skills in preparation for employment and earning a paycheck
  • Community and Business Connection Opportunities including:
    • Great American Teach-In (Nov) - A panel presentation featuring business and community leaders
    • Business Field Trip (Jan) - An opportunity to visit multiple businesses in the community
    • Future Fair (April) - A hiring event featuring dozens of area employers
    • Signing Day (May) - An opportunity to highlight select students who are entering certification programs, apprenticeships, or a new job

We’re preparing students for life with an integrated approach to workforce training. FCA bridges the gap for students by providing a targeted, integrated curriculum, specific soft and workforce development skills, access to certifications and apprenticeships, and good jobs right here in our community. 

Fact Sheet