Academia in Metro Orlando has long shared a partnership with local industry to prepare students from the elementary to graduate levels for careers in a range of fields. The region features a wealth of well-regarded educational and vocational technical institutions that work with the business community to develop curricula aimed at improving workforce quality.

Education in Metro Orlando is anchored by the University of Central Florida (UCF), one of the nation’s leading metropolitan research institutions. In addition to offering fields of study related to energy/alternative fuels, such as environmental engineering, UCF administers the Florida Solar Energy Center. One of the country’s leading energy and energy efficiency research centers, FSEC also offers a range of continuing education courses covering renewable energy and building energy efficiency. Most courses include both classroom instruction and hands-on field experience. In many cases, students can receive continuing education units, and some courses are approved for Florida professional license renewals.

Rollins College, considered among the top regional colleges in the South, offers an interdisciplinary environmental studies major in which students study the uses and protection of resources essential for economic development and public well-being. The curriculum provides a foundation of knowledge that enables students to analyze and recommend actions on environmental issues, problems and opportunities. Courses involve students in real environmental issues through field experiences and guest lectures.

The region’s community colleges and elementary and secondary school magnet programs add to the strong educational base helping to train local students for high-tech careers.