BCPS launches Space Florida Academy at nine high schools to prepare students for future careers in aerospace, aviation, and STEM industries

Broward County, Florida – Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) is expanding opportunities for students interested in the future of aerospace, aviation, engineering, and other STEM-related careers with the launch of the new Space Florida Academy.

The innovative program, created through a partnership between BCPS and Space Florida, is designed to give students the academic knowledge, technical skills, and real-world experience needed to pursue careers in some of Florida’s fastest-growing industries.

The Space Florida Academy is being introduced at nine BCPS high schools that already have established aerospace and engineering programs. The participating schools include Blanche Ely High School, Boyd H. Anderson High School, Coral Glades High School, Coral Springs High School, Charles W. Flanagan High School, Miramar High School, Northeast High School, Piper High School, and Plantation High School.

Through the Academy, students will have access to advanced coursework, career exploration opportunities, industry-focused experiences, and partnerships with colleges, universities, and business leaders. The goal is to help students understand the wide range of career possibilities available in aerospace and related fields while building the skills employers are seeking.

Students who complete the program will also receive access to a specialized job portal featuring companies that provide hiring preferences to Space Florida Academy graduates. This connection is intended to help students transition from high school into further education, training programs, and employment opportunities.

Read also: Pompano Beach City Commission to hold major FY 2027 budget workshop on July 20 at City Commission Chambers

BCPS Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn said the initiative represents the district’s continued effort to connect classroom learning with real-world career opportunities.

“Through the Space Florida Academy, Broward County Public Schools is expanding opportunities for students to explore cutting-edge careers while developing the skills necessary for success in college and today’s competitive workforce,” said BCPS Superintendent Dr.
Howard Hepburn. “This partnership reflects our commitment to providing innovative educational experiences that connect classroom learning with real-world career pathways.”

Florida has become a major center for aerospace innovation, aviation, and space exploration, with growing demand for workers trained in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The Space Florida Academy aims to prepare students to take advantage of these opportunities by combining classroom instruction with hands-on learning and industry connections.

The program will allow students to earn valuable credentials while gaining experience that reflects the expectations of modern employers. By working with professionals in the aerospace and aviation sectors, students can better understand the skills required for careers involving spacecraft, aircraft, engineering systems, advanced manufacturing, and emerging technologies.

The partnership also brings together multiple organizations, including BCPS, Space Florida, higher education institutions, workforce development groups, and industry partners. Officials say this collaboration will help ensure that students graduate with the preparation needed for careers that support Florida’s economic growth.

Read also: Broward Education Foundation launches annual Back to School Supply Drive to provide essential supplies for thousands of students and teachers across the county

Beyond career preparation, the Space Florida Academy supports BCPS’s broader commitment to expanding career and technical education programs throughout the district. School leaders continue to focus on creating pathways that allow students to explore career options while still in high school and develop skills that can benefit them after graduation.

The launch of the Academy provides students with another opportunity to pursue their interests in STEM fields while preparing for a changing workforce. As aerospace and aviation industries continue to grow, BCPS and Space Florida hope the program will help create the next generation of engineers, technicians, innovators, and industry leaders.

With the introduction of the Space Florida Academy at nine high schools, BCPS is strengthening its focus on career readiness and giving students a direct connection between education and future employment opportunities in some of Florida’s most important industries.