A Legacy of Career and Technical Education in Bay County

A Legacy of Career and Technical Education in Bay County

Tom P. Haney Technical College has been a cornerstone of career and technical education in Bay County, Florida, since its inception. Originally established as the Bay County Vocational-Technical School, it began operations in 1966 within the Wainwright Shipyard Administration Building near the current Port Panama City. The institution celebrated its first graduating class in 1967.​

In December 1966, the school was renamed in honor of Tom P. Haney, a distinguished businessman and former school board member who was a fervent advocate for vocational education. The Florida State Board of Education recognized the institution as an “Area Vocational Center” in 1965, marking a significant milestone in its development.​

The journey to establish a dedicated campus began in 1965, with the selection of the current site at 3016 Highway 77 in Panama City approved in August 1966. Construction commenced in July 1967, leading to the opening of new facilities in 1968. These initial buildings housed various programs, including Administration and Guidance, Cosmetology, Practical Nursing, Business Education, Commercial Art, Drafting, and Radio and Television Repairs.​

The college continued to expand its infrastructure to accommodate growing educational needs. In 1970, Building 04 was completed, providing space for Masonry, Welding, Automotive Mechanics, and Air Conditioning and Refrigeration programs. Temporary structures were added in 1970 for Adult Basic and General Education, which were later relocated in 1973 to the Shaw Adult Center in Springfield, Florida. Further developments included the completion of Building 07 in 1974, now serving as the cafeteria, and additional buildings in 1979 to support various educational programs.​

A significant evolution occurred in 1997 with the establishment of Haney Technical High School on the campus, initially operating as the Career Academy. By 2002, a $2.4 million renovation project was completed, enhancing the college’s facilities to better serve its students. Subsequent renovations were approved by Bay District Schools to further modernize the campus.​

Today, Tom P. Haney Technical College stands as a testament to the enduring vision of its namesake, continuing to provide comprehensive career and technical education to the residents of Bay County and surrounding areas.