The Heights Foundation is proud to announce that construction has begun on the Heights CareerTech Institute (HCTI), a $42 million initiative that will provide career and technical education to students across Southwest Florida. With construction now officially underway and more than $27.75 million raised, HCTI is on track to become a transformative force for education, economic mobility, and workforce development in the region.

 

“We are incredibly encouraged by the momentum behind this project,” said Kathryn Kelly, Founder, President and CEO of The Heights Foundation/The Heights Center. “To raise more than $27 million at this stage is a testament to the community’s belief in what we’re building—opportunity, access, and brighter futures for generations to come.”

 

The Heights Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to the generous donors who have made this progress possible, and to the HCTI Steering Committee for their leadership and dedication. Their vision and commitment have been instrumental in bringing this impactful project to life.

 

Construction has officially begun at the future site of HCTI, located at the corner of Gladiolus Drive and Pine Ridge Road. The site has been cleared and grubbed, and workers are currently raising the elevation by bringing in approximately 150,000 yards of fill. A 16-month build-out is expected, with Owen-Ames-Kimball Company (O-A-K) serving as the general contractor.  RG Architects is providing architecture & design services.

 

Lee County Community Development recently approved the project’s Development Order, enabling full-scale construction to proceed.  The Heights CareerTech Institute has officially registered as a business in the State of Florida. The Foundation is also in the process of filing for 501(c)(3) nonprofit status to secure tax-exempt designation and additional funding opportunities.

 

The newly formed Heights CareerTech Industry Advisory Committee (IAC), composed of local business owners and professionals, will help shape the curriculum and ensure HCTI’s programs are aligned with real-world workforce needs.

 

As construction gains momentum, The Heights Foundation invites community members, potential funders, and industry partners to get involved.  “If you know someone who should be part of this exciting journey, we’d love to connect,” said Kelly. “This is a community effort, and together, we’re building something extraordinary.”

 

For more information about the project, visit www.heightsfoundation.org/careertech or contact Kathryn Kelly at (239) 482-7706 or [email protected].

 

About the Heights CareerTech Institute

 

The Heights CareerTech Institute is a post-secondary Career and Technical Education (CTE) school that will provide high-demand career training and credentials to help students enter viable, family-supporting careers. Located in Harlem Heights, the Institute will serve students across Southwest Florida and play a critical role in regional workforce development.

 

About the Heights Foundation and the Heights Center

 

The Heights Foundation works to build strong, self-sufficient families in the Harlem Heights neighborhood.   Our mission is to support education and wellness, promote family and community development, and provide the benefits of enrichment and the arts.    The Heights Center, supported by The Heights Foundation, is a place for Education, Opportunity, and Enrichment.   Heights Early Learning serves more than 85 babies through 4 years old.   The Heights Center serves 153 children in AfterSchool and 160 children in SummerCamp.    The Harlem Heights Community Charter School serves 200 children from kindergarten through fifth grade.

 

Harlem Heights was originally settled as a rural agricultural community.   Approximately 780 children live in a mixture of single-family homes and multi-family apartments.    Demographically, the population is approximately 78% Hispanic, 16% African-American, and 6% Caucasian.    The poverty rate for children in Harlem Heights is more than twice the county average, with family income 40% below the county average.  As a result, families cannot easily access family support services in downtown Fort Myers and benefit greatly from programs within the neighborhood.