Author: Central Tech
For the 11th year in a row, Central Technology Center has been named one of Oklahoma’s Top Workplaces by The Oklahoman.
This statewide recognition is based entirely on feedback from Central Tech employees through an anonymous survey conducted by Energage, LLC, a third-party employee engagement company. The survey measures key areas of employee experience, including feeling respected and supported, opportunities for growth, and empowerment to achieve success.
“Earning a Top Workplaces award is a badge of honor for companies, especially because it comes authentically from their employees,” said Eric Rubino, Energage CEO. “That’s something to be proud of. In today’s market, leaders must ensure they’re allowing employees to have a voice and be heard. That’s paramount. Top Workplaces do this, and it pays dividends.”
Superintendent Kent Burris said this honor reflects the culture that Central Tech employees have built together.
“Central Tech is more than a workplace, it’s a community where people care about each other and believe in the power of what we do,” said Burris. “Our employees live our mission every day by helping students, businesses, and communities succeed. This recognition belongs to every team member who makes Central Tech a great place to work and grow.”
Central Tech’s continued recognition as a Top Workplace highlights its commitment to a positive, people-first culture where everyone achieves success.
Author: Central Tech
Central Technology Center is expanding its Class A CDL Truck Driver Training program through new partnerships with Kiamichi Tech in Durant and Southern Tech in Ardmore. The collaboration brings one of the state’s most established training programs to more communities and supports the growing need for skilled truck drivers.
As the statewide provider for Oklahoma CareerTech’s Truck Driver Training, Central Tech delivers Class A CDL instruction at 17 locations. These new sites in Durant and Ardmore strengthen the CareerTech system’s shared mission: preparing Oklahomans for good jobs and supplying businesses with skilled drivers.
“Southern Tech is proud to join Central Tech in expanding CDL training to southern Oklahoma,” said Jason Phipps, Southern Tech’s Workforce & Economic Development Director. “Together, we’re creating new opportunities for students and solving real workforce challenges for our region.”
“Our partnership with Central Tech is a powerful example of how the CareerTech system works together to meet local workforce needs. With state funding tied to this collaboration, we’re able to offer industry-leading truck driver training in Durant and help address the growing demand for CDL-credentialed professionals in Bryan County,” added Shelley Free, Superintendent of Kiamichi Tech.
Central Tech’s program focuses on producing safe, job-ready drivers. Students train two-per-truck, receive more than 60 hours of behind-the-wheel experience, and complete an additional week of day and night road trips after earning their CDL. The full program is designed to be completed in 28 days, allowing students to transition quickly into high-demand careers. The program maintains a 99% job placement rate, with many graduates starting jobs that can lead to earnings of more than $61,000.
The partnerships will help:
- Students access local training and move quickly into stable, good-paying jobs.
- Businesses hire certified, safety-focused drivers to meet growing demand.
- Communities strengthen their workforce pipeline and support economic growth.
“Partnering with Kiamichi Tech and Southern Tech lets us bring life-changing opportunities closer to home,” noted John Thorpe, Central Tech’s Truck Driver Training Director. “We’re here to help people gain skills, earn jobs, and support Oklahoma’s economy.”
Author: Central Tech
Central Technology Center recognized its latest Basic Peace Officer Certification (BPOC) graduates during a ceremony held Tuesday, November 18, 2025, on the Drumright campus. The event marked the completion of its third Council on Law Enforcement Education & Training (CLEET)-certified academy and celebrated each cadet’s commitment to protecting and serving local communities. Like both previous academies, this graduating class continued a strong record of success of achieving a 100% pass rate.
The academy prepared students for state peace officer roles by exceeding the required CLEET standard. Cadets completed the full 600-hour curriculum, plus an additional 94 hours of advanced, hands-on training. Instruction covered ethics, legal studies, community relations, traffic laws, defensive tactics, firearms, and scenario-based decision-making. Students also earned specialized certifications in areas such as Taser operation, PepperBall deployment, Stop Sticks, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu fundamentals, and patrol rifle and shotgun handling.
Instructors from local law-enforcement agencies guest teach during the academy, giving students real-world insight into daily patrol work and modern policing challenges. Many agencies in the region regularly hire Central Tech graduates, making the academy an essential part of the area’s public-safety pipeline.
“We saw tremendous dedication from this group,” said the academy’s instructor, Jason Littlefield. “They pushed through long days, tough scenarios, and a demanding schedule. They’re leaving here confident and ready to step into the field.”
Central Tech leadership echoed that message, noting how the academy helps strengthen community safety. “These graduates represent the heart of public service,” said Kent Burris, Superintendent. “Their hard work and determination will make a meaningful impact in the communities they serve.”
With the ceremony complete, graduates are now eligible to pursue peace officer positions across Oklahoma.
Central Tech celebrated their accomplishments and reaffirmed its vison to help every student achieve success.
Author: Central Tech
Every class at Central Tech has an advisory committee – a team of industry professionals, alumni, current students, and parents who help keep our programs strong, relevant, and connected to real jobs. Their insight drives everything from equipment upgrades to curriculum updates, making sure students learn the skills today’s workforce needs.
Each fall, committees from programs gather in person for our annual advisory dinner meetings. These meetings bring together people who care deeply about student success. Committee members meet with instructors face-to-face, share what they’re seeing in the field, and connect with other community partners who want to strengthen the local workforce pipeline.
Advisory committees are more than a once-a-year occurrence. They are year-round partners who help our instructors stay ahead of industry changes. Their feedback supports:
- Updates to certifications and training
- New equipment and technology
- Safety and compliance standards
- Stronger job placement and internship opportunities
Instructors stay in contact with committee members throughout the year, using their guidance to shape lessons, refine hands-on projects, and ensure students graduate ready for high-demand jobs.
“These meetings are a critical opportunity to get input from industry regarding curriculum, equipment, and to thank our committee members for investing their resources in our programs,” said Kent Burris, Superintendent.
Alumni often share how their training led directly to a successful career. Employers talk about the skills they need in new hires. Current students and parents offer honest feedback about their experience in the classroom. Together, their voices shape programs that serve every learner and strengthen our communities.
These advisory meetings remind us why Central Tech’s mission matters. They reflect our commitment to providing training that leads to jobs, growth, and long-term success for students, local businesses, and communities.
Author: Central Tech
For a limited time, Central Tech’s Truck Driver Training program is offering tuition assistance for Oklahomans who have been impacted by workforce reductions.
Students can enroll and attend at one of the 17 locations across the state and complete the program in just 28 days. Over the course students can expect to get more than 60 hours behind the wheel and seven to ten road trips, equipping graduates with the skills needed to go straight into the workforce. Central Tech’s Truck Driver Training graduates average a first year salary of $60,000.
Individuals who are currently laid off and are interested in taking advantage of the limited time opportunity can express interest through the form below.
Get in. Get going. Get paid.
INTERESTED?
Fill out the form below and we’ll contact you to discuss eligibility.
CDL Class A – Rapid Response Funds
Author: Central Tech
The Central Tech Foundation hosted its 19th annual Ron Vandever Memorial Golf Tournament on Monday, September 22, raising more than $40,000 to support students in need. The milestone event, held at Buffalo Rock Golf & Venue in Cushing, OK, welcomed 35 teams and 134 golfers across two flights. Proceeds benefit Central Tech students facing financial hardships.
Each year, the Foundation provides emergency support for students with professional clothing, training supplies, tuition, transportation, medical needs, and other unexpected expenses. Over the past year alone, more than $45,000 was distributed to 141 students across 34 communities.
“This tournament is proof of what happens when a community comes together,” said Kent Burris, Central Tech Superintendent. “Local businesses and friends step up year after year to make sure our students have what they need to stay in school, earn their certifications, start great careers, and ultimately achieve success.”
Tournament results by team name and score:
AM FLIGHT
- A Flight 1st Place: A-Affordable Design
- A Flight 2nd Place: Bookout
- B Flight 1st Place: Technical Laboratory Systems
- B Flight 2nd Place: Willeford Construction
- Closest to the Pin on 2: Adam Markou
- Closest to the Pin on 11 and closest to the Line on 18: Jon Summers / Billy Shields
PM FLIGHT
- A Flight 1st Place: Tanner
- A Flight 2nd Place: Merrifield Office Supply
- B Flight 1st Place: Dr. Cantrell’s Vision Center
- B Flight 2nd Place: Tedford Insurance #2
- Closest to the Pin on 2: Lance Garner / Jennifer Snow
- Closest to the Line on 18: Kurtis Allen / Debbie Moss
For more information on how to support the Central Tech Foundation or participate in future events, please contact Jennifer Arnold at 918.352.2552.
See all photoson Facebook here.
Author: Central Tech
Central Technology Center is excited to announce its new location at 220 S Broadway in Cleveland, expanding opportunities for community learning and workforce development.
The new site will host hands-on classes designed to bring people together, including Barn Quilt Painting, Canning 101, and Business Basics.
“These classes are about more than skills,” said Taytum Kelly, Agribusiness Coordinator at Central Tech. “They’re about community, creativity, and confidence. We want people to feel proud of what they learn and take home something lasting.”
Classes at the Cleveland location go beyond personal enrichment. Last month, Central Tech partnered with Pawnee County Emergency Management and the Oklahoma Department of Homeland Security to deliver a 21-hour ICS 300 course for first responders. Firefighters from Luther, Prue, Verdigris, Olive, Pawnee, and the Oklahoma Forestry Service participated in the advanced training, which builds on ICS 100 and 200. The course focused on managing large-scale incidents using the National Incident Management System (NIMS), preparing personnel for leadership roles in multi-jurisdictional and multi-agency operations.
“This training shows exactly why we’re excited to be in Cleveland,” said Mark Cotner, Assistant Superintendent at Central Tech. “We’re here to support both our community and our workforce, whether that’s firefighters gaining advanced skills or residents exploring personal interest classes.”
Central Tech’s Cleveland location reflects the school’s mission to make learning accessible for everyone, from high school students and working adults to retirees and hobbyists. Upcoming classes are open to the public, with affordable costs and flexible schedules.
Jobs start here, and so does community connection. By offering both career-focused training and personal interest classes, Central Tech continues to strengthen the local workforce and enhance quality of life.
EXPLORE CLEVELAND CLASSES:
Author: Central Tech
September 29 through October 3, Central Tech’s Drumright campus will welcome more than 1,300 8th grade students for Career Connections.
WHAT IS CAREER CONNECTIONS?
Career Connections is an annual event designed specifically to help district 8th graders “connect the dots” between high school programs and future career opportunities. Students tour Central Tech classrooms and labs, meet current students, and discover career pathways across industries like healthcare, engineering, manufacturing, business, and more. By exploring these options early, students begin to imagine how their unique strengths and interests can shape their futures.
WHY PARENTS & CAREGIVERS MATTER
Parents and caregivers play an important role in guiding students through career exploration. Here are key things to know about Central Tech:
- District high school students attend half-day, tuition-free.
- Central Tech offers full-time programs (1-2 years) for juniors and seniors.
- Specialized academies in Biomedical Sciences and Pre-Engineering can begin sophomore year.
- Daily, round-trip transportation is provided from district high schools.
- Central Tech recruiters work directly with high school counselors to:
- ensure graduation requirements are met
- help balance concurrent enrollment, athletics, and extracurriculars.
- Central Tech benefits all students, whether they plan to enroll in college, enlist in the military, or enter the workforce.
QUESTIONS TO ASK YOUR 8TH GRADER AFTER CAREER CONNECTIONS
To keep the conversation going at home, try asking:
- What kind of problems in the world do you wish you could help solve?
- If you could master any skill by the time you’re 18, what would it be and why?
- What does a “great day” look like for you 10 years from now?
These questions help students reflect on what inspires them, imagine their futures, and connect classroom learning with real-world opportunities.
LOOKING AHEAD
Career Connections is more than a campus tour, it’s a first step toward dreaming big. As 8th graders walk through Central Tech’s classrooms and labs, they’re not just exploring programs; they’re glimpsing possibilities. With encouragement from families and educators, these students can begin shaping a future filled with purpose, growth, and opportunity.
Author: Central Tech
After a successful pilot year in Mannford and Ripley, Central Tech’s innovative Explorer Program is expanding to five additional partner schools this fall. The program now reaches seven middle schools across the Central Tech district, helping students discover career options early through hands-on learning tied to real-world pathways.
Krista Burden, assistant superintendent at Bristow, said, “We’re excited to expose students to a variety of careers and help them start linking what they love to real-world opportunities. When a student realizes something they enjoy can actually become a career, it’s a game changer.”
Bristow Middle School Principal Lawrence Seachris added, “This isn’t a filler elective. It’s intentional. It gets kids thinking early, and that gives us a better foundation for grades 7 and 8. We’ve already had great feedback from our community, and students are excited.”
Burden also noted strong parental support. “A lot of parents have said it’s time to go back to some of the old skills, like teaching kids how to change the oil in a car. When I explain the Explorer Program, they’re 100% on board because it connects school to real life.”
Cushing Superintendent Melissa Amon said the timing was ideal. “We wanted to offer something meaningful without adding cost or strain to our schedule. Central Tech removed those barriers. We’re now offering Explorer to all seventh graders.”
Cushing Middle School Principal Stacy Weaver added, “We wanted to change up our electives and offer students something more meaningful. The Explorer Program gives every student a chance to find an interest early, and we’ve already seen how programs like e-gaming can completely change a student’s engagement.”
In Oilton, Middle School Principal Caitlin Robinson welcomed the program as a chance to deepen student engagement. “Our students don’t always get electives until 8th grade. Explorer gives them something different, something hands-on, and that matters, especially in small schools where opportunity can feel limited.”
She continued, “We’re a very small school with just 48 students. Programs like this open new doors they wouldn’t get otherwise. It makes education feel useful and gets them excited to come to school.”
Oilton Superintendent Jennie Purvis agreed. “Our kids often ask, ‘Why do we need to learn this?’ Explorer helps answer that question.”
Dr. Angela Avila, superintendent of Drumright Public Schools, said, “We are thrilled to bring this opportunity to our students. Partnering with Central Tech enhances our commitment to prepare students for both college and career. The Explorer Program provides age-appropriate exposure to real-world skills in an engaging way.”
Seachris echoed that sentiment, noting, “Education is evolving. Students need to start thinking about their future earlier than ever, and Explorer lays that foundation so they don’t miss out on key opportunities.”
Tori Griffin, counselor at Yale, and Superintendent Rocky Kennedy expressed excitement for what’s ahead. “Yale Public Schools is thrilled to introduce the Explorer Program – a brand-new, instructor-led course launching in 2025 for our 7th and 8th graders. This innovative way of teaching has sparked excitement across our district. Explorer brings a sense of purpose around career-readiness and empowers students through real-world connections. We’re proud to be part of this opportunity.”
All schools emphasized the impact the program has on student mindset and future planning. “We want our students to graduate with a plan,” said Kelly Spradlin, superintendent of Mannford. “Whether it’s work, college, or military, we want them to know where they’re headed – and that starts now, not at the end of senior year.”
As part of the program’s expansion, each new site will receive fully funded curriculum, equipment, and training from Central Tech. Teachers are already observing in existing classrooms to prepare for fall. Nancy Overton, who leads the program, will continue supporting onboarding and instructional development.
Spradlin added, “I’m just really thankful. Central Tech is bringing opportunities we couldn’t create on our own – and they’ve done it in a way that supports our people and fits our schools.”
The Explorer Program will serve more than 350 students this coming year. Each school will integrate it differently – offering the class in 6th, 7th, or 8th grade – but the mission remains the same: to give students a meaningful, hands-on start toward their future.
Author: Central Tech
Central Technology Center broke ground August 6 at 9 a.m. on a new 40,000-square-foot facility at its Sapulpa campus. This major expansion is aimed at increasing student capacity, improving safety, and supporting Oklahoma’s growing workforce. The $15.7 million project will house five programs. The Basic Police Officer Certification (BPOC) program, which is currently offered on campus, will move into the new building and benefit from expanded training space and upgraded facilities. The remaining four programs include Auto Collision Repair and three yet to be announced, as well as a new seminar center that doubles as a tornado shelter.
The new facility will connect Buildings A and B, enhancing campus safety and creating a more unified learning environment. With 429 enrollments at the Sapulpa campus and 797 prospective students on a districtwide waitlist, 356 with completed applications and 441 still in progress, this expansion will allow Central Tech to serve an additional 180 students annually.
“This project is about access, access to education, access to training, and ultimately, access to life-changing career opportunities,” said Kent Burris, superintendent of Central Tech. “We’re not just adding square footage; we’re investing in people, safety, and long-term economic impact.”
The seminar center will serve both instructional and community functions and is large enough to shelter the entire Sapulpa campus population during severe weather. The new building will also bring cutting-edge classroom and lab space, opening doors to hands-on learning in areas with strong local demand.
“This expansion answers the call from students and industry alike,” said Kim Howard, Central Tech Sapulpa campus director. “It allows us to bring in new programs and serve more students, while giving our staff and community a safer, more connected campus.”
In addition to the expansion, Central Tech is launching a Practical Nursing program at the Sapulpa campus this fall. The program will welcome up to 18 qualified students, further expanding the school’s ability to support students pursuing healthcare careers. The nursing program will be housed in existing campus space and is not part of the new construction.
Campus is located at 1720 S. Main in Sapulpa, OK. Construction is expected to be completed in Spring 2027.
