The college was founded in 1963 by the Emporia School District.

FHTC was transferred to the Kansas Board of Regents in July 1999, and separated from the Emporia School District in 2004.

[6] The college is governed by the Kansas Board of Regents.

[7] It is overseen by a board of trustees made up of 7 community members.

The board is responsible for the development and operation of FHTC.