Suncoast Technical College (originally Sarasota County Vocational Technical Institute), and better known as Vo-Tech, first opened its doors in September 1967. Located on the corner of Beneva and Proctor Roads, we offered 13 programs in 6 buildings, to approximately 500 ‘daytime only’ students. Our first class graduated in June 1968. In 1992, Vo-Tech became Sarasota County Technical Institute (SCTI). Progress led to the addition of Sarasota Polytechnical High School on the same campus in 2008 followed by the grand opening of a new state-of-the-art campus at SCTI. In 2014, we became Suncoast Technical College, now known as STC. Three years later, STC celebrated another grand opening. The STC North Port Branch opened in 2017.

Today, STC serves more than 5,000 adult and high school students. We offer day and evening classes in over 30 technical programs as well as Adult Basic Education, and Adult and Community Enrichment. Some technical and career education programs available to adult students are Automotive and Marine Technologies, Business Technologies, Computer Technologies, Health Science, Emergency Medical Services, Public Service, and Human Services.

Suncoast students have an opportunity to enroll in academic programs that include English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL), GED® Preparation, Adult Basic Education (ABE), and Sarasota Adult High School. We also provide an extensive Continuing Education Program including training for currently employed individuals, courses for acquiring or extending professional licenses, and courses specifically designed for employees of local businesses. 

STC features a system of learning based on competencies and outcomes that are market driven. Competencies are the skills and knowledge required to succeed on the job. We offer individualized programs with the following characteristics:

• Competencies based on skills and knowledge needed for the workplace.

• Evaluations based on performance.

• Varied instructional strategies to support different learning styles.

Our programs incorporate at least one Occupational Completion Point (OCP) or Literacy Completion Point (LCP). Students completing an OCP or LCP may exit school or continue to complete additional OCPs or LCPs. As students progress through OCPs and/or LCPs, their skill level increases along with an opportunity for more advanced job placement, higher paying wages and/or higher education.

Suncoast Technical College contract teachers are certified by the State of Florida or the School Board of Sarasota County. Technical program teachers are required to have a minimum of six years of experience in their field or the necessary education credentials. Each of our programs maintains an advisory committee with a total participation of over several hundred community members to ensure that students are well prepared to enter the workforce after graduation. This collaboration fosters many partnerships, cooperative agreements, and apprenticeships, while also providing a valuable resource for STC graduates.

To contact a specific faculty member, please use our Directory.