Author: Central Tech
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.
Author: Central Tech
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.
Author: Central Tech
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.
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.
