AVTEC, Alaska’s Institute of Technology in Seward, founded in 1969 as the Alaska Skills Center, is described on its own website as the only post-secondary career and technical training centre owned and operated by the State of Alaska.[1]
| Location | Seward |
|---|---|
| Founded | 1969 (as Alaska Skills Center) |
| Governing agency | Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development |
| Technical programmes | 9, plus maritime |
| Hands-on lab time | Over 70% |
| Class size | Typically 8 to 16 |
History
AVTEC was founded in 1969 as the Alaska Skills Center, a post-secondary component of the State Department of Education. Its website links the founding to the 1968 oil discovery at Prudhoe Bay. It is now a division of the Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.[1]
Programmes
The nine technical programmes are construction technology, culinary arts, diesel and heavy equipment technologies, industrial electricity, industrial machine and maintenance, industrial welding, information technology, plumbing and heating, and refrigeration, with maritime courses and simulator training in addition.[1]
Campus and teaching
Campuses lie at the head of Resurrection Bay in Seward, including the Applied Technology campus and a Student Life campus with resident student housing and family apartments. Hands-on labs make up over 70 percent of student learning time and classes are typically limited to 8 to 16 students per instructor.[1]
FAQs
Where is AVTEC? In Seward, Alaska.
Who operates it? The Alaska Department of Labor and Workforce Development.
When was it founded? 1969, as the Alaska Skills Center.
Sources
Key facts
- State-owned and operated
- Over 70% hands-on lab time
Quick checkWhen was AVTEC founded?Show answer
1969
Sources
- AVTEC. General Information. 2026 (accessed 2026-11-14)
Editorially reviewed by Specialty Digest Editorial TeamLast reviewed November 14, 2026Researched and drafted with AI assistanceReport an issue