Miami, May 30, 2025 – Miami Dade College (MDC) continues to lead the region in workforce readiness. In 2025, the College reached a historic milestone with an unprecedented 2,081 industry certifications recognized by the State of Florida, marking the first time any college in the state has surpassed 2,000 certifications approved for state funding.
With this recent accomplishment, MDC holds the spot as Florida’s top college for reporting industry certifications for six consecutive years, securing over $2 million in incentive funding from the Florida Department of Education in 2025 alone.
“This remarkable achievement reflects our commitment to workforce development and our responsibility to prepare local talent with the skills and credentials needed to thrive in the future of work,” said Miami Dade College President Madeline Pumariega.
Overall, MDC’s certification initiative has secured over $12 million in performance funding during the past eight years. This support has enabled thousands of students to obtain industry certification and secure meaningful job opportunities.
“We are incredibly proud of everyone who played a role in this historic achievement—from our dedicated faculty and staff to our hardworking students,” stated Lizanette Koontz, Senior Industry Certifications Associate at MDC. “Surpassing 2,000 state-recognized industry certifications is not just a milestone; it’s a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and our shared commitment to student success.”
Learn more about industry certifications offered at MDC at www.mdc.edu/industrycertifications.
About Miami Dade College
Miami Dade College (MDC) is the most diverse institution in the nation, with 167 nations and 63 languages represented in its student body. The college’s eight campuses and outreach centers offer over 300 distinct degree pathways, including associate and baccalaureate degrees, certifications and apprenticeships. MDC is the recipient of many top national awards, including the prestigious Aspen Prize, and has been ranked #4 among Top Public Institutions in the Southern Region by U.S. News & World Report. The College changes lives through accessible, high-quality teaching and learning experiences. It is home to the Miami Culinary Institute, the Miami Animation & Gaming International Complex, the Miami Fashion Institute, The Idea Center, the Cybersecurity Center of the Americas, two AI Centers, the Center for Learning, Innovation and Simulation at the Medical Campus, the Business Innovation & Technology Center, the School for Advanced Studies and New World School of the Arts, among others. MDC has been recognized among the nation’s “Great Colleges to Work For” since the program’s inception. The College serves as an economic, cultural and civic leader for the advancement of our diverse global community. MDC alumni and employees contribute more than $5 billion annually to the local economy, and graduates occupy top leadership positions in every major industry. MDC’s renowned rich cultural programming includes the Miami Book Fair, Miami Film Festival, the National Historic Landmark Miami Freedom Tower, Koubek Center Mansion and Gardens, Live Arts Miami at MDC, the Lynn and Louis Wolfson II Florida Moving Image Archives, and the Museum of Art and Design. MDC has admitted more than 2.5 million students and counting, since it opened its doors in 1960. Approximately 125,000 students are currently enrolled. For more information, visit www.mdc.edu.