The history of the BTVI dates back to 1949. The Institution has undergone several name changes and at one time was incorporated with another institution. In 1980, the Institute was known by the name Industrial Training Centre (ITC) offering short courses and sharing facilities with the College of The Bahamas at its Old Trail location. However, in 1984 the Institute became the sole occupant. In 1995, the name Industrial Training Centre was changed for a final time to The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute. The Institute is an open access institution under the jurisdiction of the Ministry of Education. It is the primary institution in The Commonwealth of The Bahamas providing career and technical education and training to the Bahamian population. BTVI serves all members of the community with lifelong learning opportunities: certificate programmes leading directly to jobs for high school graduates; general education development and industrial training programmes for adults in the workplace; and professional development courses designed to enlighten and enrich the lives of adults. It is the only post secondary institution that offers academic, technical, continuing education, corporate and community training opportunities in a variety of programmes. Courses are offered in fields ranging from Automotive Technology, Business and Computer Information Systems to Construction, Beauty Trades, Massage Therapy, Electronics, Cisco Networking, Fashion Trade and Souvenir Manufacturing.