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Over three days, Central Tech students from the Digital Media and Business & Information Technology programs on both campuses took their skills to Tulsa to compete in this year’s Business Professionals of America (BPA) State Leadership Conference. Held March 2–4, in Tulsa, the conference gives business students the opportunity to demonstrate the workplace skills they’ve learned in the classroom across 90 competitive categories under six assessment areas.
BPA is a national career and technical student organization (CTSO) for students preparing for careers in business management, information technology, finance, office administration, health administration, and related fields. With more than 45,000 members, BPA supports classroom learning through co-curricular activities aligned to national standards. The organization focuses on leadership development, community service and career readiness, and its signature Workplace Skills Assessment Program allows students to demonstrate real-world business and technology skills at the regional, state, and national levels.
Collectively, Central Tech students earned 19 gold, silver, and bronze medals in team and individual competitions. Notably, 1 team and 3 individuals secured first-place finishes, advancing them to the BPA National Leadership Conference scheduled for May 6-10 in Nashville, TN.
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A quick message from a friend at the Cleveland Fire Department turned into a hands-on welding project at Central Tech when student Tegun Ware suggested the department bring its brush truck and flatbed to the school for installation.
Three welding students, Landon Fisher (Drumright High School), Ben Whitsett (Yale High School), and Ware (Cleveland High School), spent the week fabricating brackets, prepping the frame, and solving fit issues to complete the job. The project gave the students real-world experience while saving the fire department several hundred dollars in materials and labor. Central Tech provided all the materials needed to install the flatbed on the truck.
Fisher said the team quickly realized the truck didn’t fit the bed as expected, but they used their welding training to adapt and find a solution. “You have to really think about what kind of brackets you want to build,” he said. “It takes a lot of knowledge, a lot of thinking, and a lot of math to get that correct.”
Whitsett said he enjoyed contributing to a community partner. “I was glad to help out a fire department,” he said.
Fisher added that seeing the finished work was the best part. “I like seeing our work pay off, and I like seeing it go down the road looking good.”
The flatbed is now in service as Cleveland Fire’s Brush 2 truck and includes a 200-gallon water tank. The upgraded truck gives the department the ability to get water into hard-to-reach areas when responding to grass fires.
Central Tech students regularly complete hands-on projects that build technical skills, problem-solving abilities, and confidence, helping prepare them for high-demand industry jobs. Each project is carefully reviewed by the program instructor to ensure it aligns with the curriculum and the current skill level of the class.
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January is National Blood Donor Month, and while it is a time to recognize the lifesaving generosity of blood donors, it is also an opportunity to highlight the individual training to safely collect those donations. Through classes like Phlebotomy, Medical Assisting, and Advanced Health Careers, students learn essential skills for collecting and handling blood donations. Central Tech also hosts multiple blood drives each year to support community needs.
Before the drive, students help recruit donors and register them. During the Central Tech blood drives, Advanced Health Careers students staff the sign-in table and serve as runners for ice packs, drinks, and snacks. They also receive training on how to respond if a donor begins to feel faint or loses consciousness.
“We learn how to glove and wash your hands properly, and we learn what to do if someone passes out,” said Jacelyn Henigh, an Advanced Health Careers Student from Mannford High School. She added that students practice working with a variety of patient types, including children, teenagers, and adults.
“It gives us the skills and training to get ready for the real world,” said Lanie Wells, an Advanced Health Careers Student from Stroud High School. “You get to see the actual things that can happen.”
Wells emphasized the importance of blood donation. “Transfusions are a lot more common than people think. It’s a constant need.” She also shared appreciation for Central Tech’s support of the drives: “It shows they care about hosting this and about helping us gain the hands-on experience we need, instead of just hearing about it in a book.”
Advanced Health Careers Insructor Brand Fisher encourages more people to donate. “It doesn’t take long, and it’s just a quick pinch,” she said. “The shortage is critical, and one pint can potentially save three lives. It’s an incredible feeling knowing you can do that.” Blood donation is a small act that makes a huge impact. According to Our Blood Institute, in the U.S., someone needs blood every two seconds.
If you are interested in learning more about this career field, Central Tech also offers a Phlebotomy class at both the Drumright and Sapulpa campuses throughout the year.
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Join us on Sunday, February 15th from 1 p.m.-4 p.m., as you step inside Central Tech for an afternoon of hands-on fun and discovery. This free event happens on both campuses and is packed with activities for all ages.
Get ready to see how Central Tech uses the latest technology to prepare students for high-demand careers. You can explore classrooms, meet instructors, and experience live demonstrations and hands-on activities that bring learning to life.
NOT YOUR AVERAGE OPEN HOUSE
This isn’t just a walkthrough; it’s an experience! Try virtual welding, join an Esports game, or check your blood sugar for free. With more than 70 activities, live demonstrations, and even a car show on the Drumright campus, there is something for you. Enjoy free pop and popcorn while supplies last! Plus, don’t miss your chance to win our grand prize, a potting bench built by Construction students, at both campuses! Be sure to register when you arrive.
WHY IT MATTERS
“Open House is the perfect opportunity for future students, parents, business owners, and community members to see our programs in action and experience them firsthand,” said Kent Burris, superintendent of Central Tech. “This event shows how we’re shaping tomorrow’s workforce by providing exceptional training and real-world opportunities in the classroom.”
CELEBRATING CAREERTECH MONTH
February is Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month, and as an Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education (OkACTE) Gold Star School, Central Tech proudly showcases programs that help you succeed and businesses grow.
The Gold Star award recognizes technology center districts that meet strict and demanding criteria, demonstrating a high level of excellence in serving students, businesses, and the community.
Our Workforce and Economic Development team is on-site to share how we help companies stay competitive with customized training in areas like oil and gas, agribusiness, safety and OSHA compliance, and more. Stop by the seminar center to learn how we can help your business thrive.
JOIN THE FUN
Central Tech’s Open House is free and open to the public. Whether you’re exploring career options, looking for skilled talent, or just want a fun day out, this is an event you won’t want to miss.
Activities, food, prices, and giveaways vary by campus and are available while supplies last.
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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.
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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.”
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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.
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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.
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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
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Students from Central Tech’s Drumright campus recently put their skills and compassion into action at the Gold4Kids Walk, an annual event hosted by the Gold4Kids Foundation of Tulsa. The walk celebrates survivors, encourages families battling childhood cancer, and honors the memory of children who have lost their battle.
This year’s event carried special meaning, as it marked the first Gold4Kids Walk since the COVID-19 pandemic. Volunteers and organizers were determined to make its return stronger than ever. “We wanted to show strong community support to help kick off the event’s return and keep it growing for years to come,” said Monica Frick, Cosmetology instructor and SkillsUSA advisor.
Student volunteers from four classes, representing three Career and Technical Student Organizations (CTSOs), worked together to deliver a busload of fun and free career-oriented activities for families.
Members of HOSA–Future Health Professionals from the Advanced Health Careers program hosted a Teddy Bear Clinic, where children received stuffed animals and practiced “treating” their bears’ boo-boos with skilled hands and caring hearts. Students from Business Professionals of America (BPA) in Business Information & Technology brought smiles to families by dressing as popular characters, greeting guests, and posing for photos. SkillsUSA students from Cosmetology offered colorful salon-style experiences including nail polish, hair tinsel, and hair chalk, alongside an art station and free popcorn.
“It was important to us that we had something for everyone to enjoy at our booths,” said Jaxyn Elliott, Cosmetology student and SkillsUSA member from Cushing High School.
A highlight of the day came from Digital Media student and BPA member Jason “Sam” Kelley of Drumright, who volunteered his photography talents to capture priceless memories for families and volunteers. His photos will be gifted to the Gold4Kids Foundation of Tulsa to help promote future events.
For students, the experience connected classroom learning to real-world service. “We got to use our skills to bring people joy,” shared BPA member and Cleveland High School student Jayden Wynn. “It wasn’t about money or recognition; it was about making a difference.” Many participants left inspired by the families they met.
“We thought we were there to help them … but they ended up inspiring us even more. It reminded us why we chose a career focused on helping others.”
– Karol Flores, Advanced Health Careers Student and HOSA member from Cushing
Central Tech students hope to continue supporting the Gold4Kids Walk each year, helping it grow stronger with every event. Projects like this show how career training and community service go hand in hand, proving that helping others is at the heart of every great career.