Florida Aquaculture Technician Industry Certification- Preparing the Future Labor-Force of Florida’s Aquaculture Industry  

 

Florida’s aquaculture industry is a $165 million dollar industry according to the most recent USDA Aquaculture Census (2024) and as we all know, it’s growing. One aspect of the industry that is growing but not necessarily at the same pace, is the qualified labor force. Forecasting this need, the Florida Aquaculture Association developed the Florida Aquaculture Technician Industry Certification. 

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High school students across the state are not only able to earn this certification but also gain hands-on training that will prepare them to enter into the industry with baseline knowledge that sets them high above the rest of the crowd. This opportunity also helps aquaculture programs in high schools by providing them validity to their programs in a climate that is results driven and funding from the state for each certification earned. 

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Once students have earned their certification by completing prerequisites (75% of Aquaculture 2 or 150 working hours on a certified aquaculture facility) and passing the certification exam, they have earned their Florida Aquaculture Technician Industry Certification. Some of the benchmarks that are accessed as a part of this program include:

• History of Florida aquaculture and impacts to state (environmental & economical) 

• Operating and maintaining common aquaculture equipment

• Basic husbandry methods for major Florida aquacultured species

• Responsible water usage and evaluate parameters 

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In the coming months, an estimated 400+ students across the state will be qualified to earn this certification. In the summer of 2026, we will be launching an updated certification exam and resources along with numerous in-person and virtual sessions for teachers to help them prepare their students for this certification and also a future in Florida’s aquaculture industry. 

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The future of this program is bright and heavily focused on integrating current industry members into this program by connecting schools with local producers and creating a pipeline for individuals earning this certification to integrate into the industry with ease and success. The Florida Aquaculture Association has developed a well-rounded education committee with industry members, educators, and other stakeholders throughout the state. Ultimately, we are providing a strong foundation for the future of Florida’s aquaculture industry. 

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If you would like for information about this program, please contact the Florida Aquaculture Association’s Education Coordinator, Tiffany Conner, at education@flaa.org.