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Central Tech, a leading provider of technical education, is pleased to announce the expansion of its Drumright campus with the addition of a new south wing. This expansion, initiated by former superintendent Ron Dyer, aims to create more space for the Biomedical Sciences (Biomed) Academy, allowing it to accommodate a greater number of students and enhance the educational experience.
The new south addition at Central Tech’s Drumright campus comprises three distinct areas designed to meet the evolving needs of students, faculty, and the community. As students enter the new addition, they will be welcomed by an entrance and lobby that provides a covered entry to keep them out of the weather when exiting the bus. This area will also serve as a lobby for individuals utilizing the conference center.
A significant feature of the south addition is the Cimarron Conference Center, a versatile space that will serve as a meeting venue for Central Tech, its business partners, and clients. This center will also double as a tornado shelter and is designed to accommodate over 800 people, which would safely accommodate all persons on campus.
The third section of the south addition will house the expanded Biomedical Sciences classroom. Through Project Lead the Way (PLTW), the program will extend its offerings from junior and senior high school students to a full academy. Starting with incoming sophomores in high school, the expanded program will increase capacity from 30 to 60 students. Additionally, the program’s duration will be extended from a 2-year program to a comprehensive 3-year program.
Shane Bruce, Campus Director of Central Tech in Drumright, expressed his enthusiasm for the expansion, saying, “We are thrilled to offer the Biomedical Sciences Academy to more students, effectively doubling our capacity. By extending the PLTW program, we will provide an exceptional educational experience, preparing students for successful careers in the medical field.”
Kent Burris, Superintendent of Central Tech, commented, “This campus expansion is an exciting milestone for Central Tech as we continue to grow and meet the needs of the workforce. We are dedicated to providing quality technical education and creating opportunities for our students to excel.”
Looking ahead, Central Tech has ambitious plans. The organization will soon unveil the grand opening of its cosmetology program on the Sapulpa campus, further diversifying its educational offerings in Sapulpa. Central Tech aims to expand its range of full-time programs in the coming years, including doubling the enrollment in the Truck Driver Training program within two years. Collaboration with other educational partners will be pursued to maximize opportunities for students, while the business and industry department intends to extend its reach to more businesses in the district. Furthermore, Central Tech’s short-term training initiatives will focus on researching and expanding law enforcement training opportunities.
Central Tech remains committed to its mission of providing excellent technical education that meets the demands of a rapidly evolving workforce, preparing individuals for successful careers and contributing to the growth and development of the local community.
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Champaign Walker, a determined young woman with a troubled past, has emerged victorious in her journey of recovery and personal growth. Through her participation in the Women in Recovery (WIR) program and subsequent enrollment in Central Tech’s Women in Welding program, Champaign has defied the odds and is now on a path towards a promising future.
Born into a challenging environment, Champaign faced numerous obstacles from a young age. Raised by her grandparents due to her parents’ struggles with drug addiction, she eventually succumbed to the same destructive path. At the age of 11, she found herself trapped in a cycle of drug abuse, leading to a turbulent adolescence marked by periods in foster care and a juvenile prison sentence for armed robbery.
Upon her release at the age of 18, Champaign became a mother, but her battle with addiction persisted. Her life continued to spiral out of control, resulting in the loss of custody of her daughter. It was at this critical juncture that she was presented with a life-changing opportunity to enter the WIR program.
Initially hesitant, Champaign ultimately chose the path of recovery, entering rehabilitation and making the courageous decision to embrace sobriety. Now celebrating one year of being drug-free, she finds herself in the third phase of the WIR program, working tirelessly to regain custody of her daughter and rebuild her fractured relationships.
In a remarkable turn of events, Champaign has also been given the chance to attend Central Tech’s Women in Welding program, which encompasses CNC machining, forklift operation, overhead crane handling, and OSHA training.
At Central Tech, Champaign has found her passion in CNC plasma cutting. Inspired by her grandfather’s work in the field, she initially doubted her mathematical abilities. However, her instructor, Bill Yelley, offered unwavering support and encouragement, instilling in her a newfound confidence. Yelley attests to Champaign’s remarkable progress, noting her dedication and aptitude for complex tasks like computer-aided drafting (CAD) and the meticulous building of intricate designs involving arcs and lines.
With her newfound confidence, Champaign aspires to become a CNC programmer and expand her knowledge through SolidWorks. Notably, she takes pride in challenging the gender stereotypes prevalent in her chosen field, believing that women deserve equal opportunities to showcase their skills. Her female friends, who excel in welding, serve as a source of inspiration and support.
Reflecting on her remarkable transformation, Champaign emphasizes the value of the Women in Recovery program and the guidance provided by instructors such as Yelley and Sarah Adcock, who oversee the Women in Welding program. Grateful for their unwavering dedication and non-judgmental approach, Champaign acknowledges the life-changing impact of these programs and encourages others to seize similar opportunities.
Yelley expresses his admiration for Champaign’s intellect and potential, predicting a bright future for her. Recognizing her talent, a professional draftsman has even expressed interest in reviewing Champaign’s resume.
Astonished by the opportunities before her, Champaign has surpassed her own expectations and now enjoys regular visits with her daughter, with overnight visits on the horizon. Champaign humbly reflects on her journey, expressing immense pride in her accomplishments and expressing her hope that her grandfather and Yelley share in her sense of achievement. With unwavering determination, she declares, “I did this! It took hard work, time, and effort—but I’m proud of myself and what I’ve accomplished.”
Category: Uncategorized
Updated September 1, 2023
Nick Gaunt, the esteemed Network Security & Administration instructor at Central Tech, continues to make waves in the world of education and cybersecurity. Following his recent recognition as the AFA Teacher of the Year by the Gerrity Chapter, Gaunt’s exceptional commitment to fostering student success and advancing cybersecurity education has propelled him to new heights.
Gaunt’s dedication to his craft was reaffirmed when he was announced as the recipient of the prestigious Oklahoma AFA Teacher of the Year award. The announcement was made at the annual awards banquet held on August 17, 2023, at Rose State College in Midwest City, OK. Gaunt’s passion for cybersecurity education and his remarkable contributions to student development and competitive cybersecurity learning were key factors in securing this accolade.
As a result of his recent accomplishments, Gaunt is now positioned to compete for the national AFA Teacher of the Year award. His exemplary teaching methods, leadership in cybersecurity education, and enduring impact on students make him a strong contender for this prestigious national recognition.
LaDonna Gear, assistant superintendent for Central Tech, commented, “Nick Gaunt’s journey from the Gerrity Chapter award to the Oklahoma AFA Teacher of the Year is an inspiring testament to his dedication and excellence in education. His contributions inspire educators and students alike, making him a true role model.”
Central Tech congratulates Nick Gaunt on this exceptional achievement and wishes him the best as he advances to the national competition for the AFA Teacher of the Year award.
June 26, 2023
The Gerrity Air Force Association (AFA) announced Nick Gaunt as the recipient of the prestigious AFA Teacher of the Year award at the annual AFA Gerrity Chapter Awards Breakfast in Midwest City on June 6, 2023. Gaunt, Network Security & Administration‘s instructor for Central Tech and an esteemed educator with 23 years of teaching experience, was recognized for his exceptional dedication to student success and his significant contributions to the field of competitive cybersecurity education.
Gaunt’s commitment to fostering a positive learning environment and cultivating a passion for knowledge, problem-solving, and teamwork among his students set him apart as an outstanding educator. His extensive experience and expertise have made a lasting impact on the lives of countless students throughout his career.
Since 2012, Gaunt has served as a CyberPatriot coach, nurturing the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. His unwavering dedication to the program has yielded remarkable results, with four of his teams reaching the national CyberPatriot competition. Notably, Gaunt’s coached teams have consistently advanced to the semi-finals of the prestigious platinum division each year.
Gaunt’s passion for cybersecurity education extends beyond coaching. He has collaborated with other educators to develop the Oklahoma Cup, a state-wide competition that provides students with invaluable opportunities to test their cybersecurity skills and learn from one another. Now in its third year, the Oklahoma Cup has experienced exponential growth, with over 70 participating teams and more than 350 competitors.
“I am truly honored to receive the AFA Teacher of the Year award,” said Gaunt. “It is a testament to the dedication of my students and the support of my colleagues. I hope this recognition shines a spotlight on the importance of cybersecurity education and inspires other educators to foster a passion for this critical field.”
Gaunt’s impact extends beyond his own students. All five of the CyberPatriot semi-final teams this year participated in the Oklahoma Cup, highlighting the invaluable experience and opportunities this competition offers to budding cybersecurity enthusiasts.
In addition to his teaching responsibilities, Gaunt is currently collaborating with fellow educators to develop a comprehensive curriculum for future CyberPatriot coaches. This initiative aims to provide a standardized framework for training teams, ensuring students across different schools and districts receive the same high-quality education and preparation for competitions.
“We congratulate Nick Gaunt on this well-deserved recognition,” said Shane Bruce, Drumright campus director for Central Tech. “His dedication to cybersecurity education and his commitment to empowering students are commendable. Gaunt is an inspiration to educators and students alike, and we are proud to honor his outstanding achievements.”
Gaunt’s passion for teaching and his relentless pursuit of excellence make him a fitting recipient of the AFA Teacher of the Year award. Central Tech congratulates Gaunt on this prestigious honor and extends its gratitude for his contributions to the field of cybersecurity education.
Learn more about the Network Security & Administration class here.
Category: Uncategorized
Congratulations to the 2023 Central Tech Students of the Year!
Category: Uncategorized
April 26-30, 2023, Central Tech attended the National Leadership Conference for Business Professionals of America (BPA), April 26-30, 2023, in Anaheim, CA.
Central Tech’s Business & Information Technology students displayed exceptional skills, bringing home a first-place individual and a second-place team medal. Trent Fine, postsecondary student from Stroud, received first place in the Presentation Individual category, the National Postsecondary Recruiter of the Year award, and National Voting Delegates for Oklahoma (Postsecondary). Katy Knapp from Cleveland, Andrew Wyre from K12, Dezirae White from Cushing, and Aliviah Jolly from Mannford placed second in Parliamentary Procedure Team (Secondary).
As a group, the chapter received several awards, including the Ambassador Torch Awards, numerous BPA Cares National Chapter Awards, and National Voting Delegates for Oklahoma (Secondary). In addition, Maggie Battles from Ripley and Aspen Nelson from Hominy will hold state officer positions.
As a leading Career Technical Student Organization (CTSO) in the nation, BPA offers students a unique chance to gain valuable skills and forge important connections. Membership in BPA opens doors to a variety of engaging learning tracks which help students enhance their core knowledge and prepare for success in today’s competitive business landscape. By joining BPA, students can pursue careers in fields such as Business Administration, Finance & Accounting, Human Resources, and Small Business Entrepreneurship.
To find out more about BPA, visit bpa.org.
Category: Uncategorized
When it comes to starting a business, there are many factors to consider, including location, cost of living, workforce availability, and industry trends.
“For entrepreneurs looking for a place that offers a favorable business climate and a variety of successful industries, Oklahoma is worth considering,” said Peter Kelly, small business coordinator for Central Tech.
With a low cost of living, business-friendly policies, and a skilled workforce, Oklahoma is an ideal place to start a business. Additionally, the state has several industries that have historically been successful, including energy and natural resources, aerospace and defense, agriculture and food processing, manufacturing, and technology and innovation.
If you have an entrepreneurial spirit and are thinking of starting a business, here are the top five reasons why you should consider starting a business in Oklahoma.
1. Low Cost of Living
One of the biggest advantages of starting a business in Oklahoma is the low cost of living. According to the Council for Community and Economic Research, Oklahoma is one of the most affordable states to live in, with a cost of living that is 10% lower than the national average. This means that you can stretch your dollars further and enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank.
2. Business-friendly Environment
Oklahoma is known for being a business-friendly state. The state government offers tax incentives and business-friendly policies that make it easier for entrepreneurs to start and grow their businesses.
“For example, Central Tech’s small business program provides free business consulting services to help entrepreneurs with everything from developing a business plan to securing funding,” said Kelly. “In addition, we host several small business workshops throughout the year and have incubator space available.”
Among the benefits of utilizing a business incubator is the graduated rental rates for office and light manufacturing space. The lower initial cost of occupancy gradually increases as your business matures and grows.
3. Skilled Workforce
Oklahoma has a highly skilled and educated workforce, thanks to its excellent technical schools through Oklahoma CareeTech. Central Tech produces top-notch graduates who are ready to work in a wide range of industries. With a 94% placement, you can find talented employees to help you build and grow your business.
4. Strategic Location
Oklahoma is in the heart of the United States and Central Tech is between Oklahoma City and Tulsa. It’s an ideal location for businesses that need to ship products to customers across the country. The state is home to two major interstates (I-35 and I-44) and has easy access to other major highways, railroads, and airports. This makes it easy to transport goods and materials and to travel to other parts of the country for business meetings and networking events.
5. Quality of Life
Finally, Oklahoma offers a high quality of life for entrepreneurs and their families. The cost of living is low, the people are friendly, and there are plenty of cultural and recreational activities to enjoy. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, shopping, or attending a live concert, there is something for everyone in Oklahoma.
“With a low cost of living, business-friendly environment, skilled workforce, strategic location, and high quality of life, it’s easy to see why Oklahoma is becoming an increasingly popular destination for entrepreneurs,” said Kelly.
Whether you are just starting out or looking to expand your existing business, Oklahoma may be the perfect place and Central Tech can help you get started. If you are ready to talk solutions, contact peter.kelly@centraltech.edu or 918.224.0235.
Category: Uncategorized
Each spring Central Tech students participate in select CareerTech Student Organization (CTSO) leadership conferences including Business Professionals of America (BPA), Oklahoma HOSA-Future Health Professionals, and SkillsUSA. Competitive events test students on job readiness, public speaking, and various skills related to their class at Central Tech.
First place state winners move on to compete in the national competition for their respective CTSO.
Congratulations to this years state winners!
SkillsUSA State Leadership Conference
April 23-25, 2023
HOSA State Leadership Conference
April 17-19, 2023
BPA State Leadership Conference
March 5-7, 2023
Category: Uncategorized
Photography plays a key role in the success of your business. In our digital world, it’s often the first impression someone gets of your business.
“You’ve heard the adage, you eat with your eyes first. It’s the same for making purchasing decisions online,” said Peter Kelly, Central Tech’s small business management coordinator. “The better the photo, the more likely it is someone will stop their online scrolling and consider purchasing your product.”
With people spending more time shopping online, product photos are critical. Your photos need to stand out from the crowd, and represent the personality, style, and emotion you want your business to evoke.
“Consistency in your photos helps build recognition and trust among your customers. It builds a relationship, a promise of what your customers can expect from your business,” said Natasja Kemp, instructor of the Product Photography class at Central Tech.
Which leaves the question of how to take better photos of what you’re selling. Becoming knowledgeable about the fundamentals of photography can help you create better photos and boost your online image.
The good news…no fancy camera necessary!
Using just your smartphone, Kemp covers how to get on track to making better, more professional and creative photographs. Getting good exposures, finding compelling compositions, and creating a style that works best to tell your brand’s story are heavily discussed.
In a hands-on atmosphere, you learn how to use your smartphone camera to define your product. Utilizing easy to understand composition guidelines and simple lighting techniques are two ways of doing so. Consciously choosing your foreground and background are also discussed.
The last instruction given in class is on editing. Kemp discusses the editing tools readily available on your phone and talks about more robust editing apps available in the app store.
“Product photography is often considered a daunting task and is pushed to the backburner. It’s always a pleasure watching the relief come across a student’s face as Natasja guides them through a few photography lessons and they realize how easy it can be to learn,” said Kelly.
Becoming knowledgeable about some of the fundamentals of photography can help you create better photos and boost your online presence. You’ll leave class feeling more knowledgeable and confident in your ability to create a more professional and consistent online representation of your brand.
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The Oklahoma Cup sponsored by the Air & Space Forces Association held an award ceremony at Eastern Oklahoma Technology Center, in Choctaw, OK, Wednesday, April 12, 2023.
The Oklahoma Cup competition spans three months and is comprised of three rounds. Each round of the tournament includes virtual machine images of various operating systems such as Windows Desktop, Windows Server, Linux Desktop, and Cisco Packet tracers. Teams consisting of two to six members have a two-day window to compete in each round, with a three-hour time limit to advance.
The focus of the competition is on identifying and correcting vulnerabilities, securing settings, eliminating malware, and answering forensic questions.
The event is divided into three categories: middle school, high school, and adult. More than 90 teams entered the competition. Central Tech’s Network Security & Administration (NSA) classes entered both the high school and adult categories, placing 2nd and 3rd in high school and 2nd in adult.
Central Tech was well represented at the awards banquet, in attendance with the NSA students were instructors Nick Gaunt, Dustin Ford, and Brian Babcock, Superintendent Kent Burris, Assistant Superintendent LaDonna Gear, Campus Director Shane Bruce, Assistant Campus Director Daniel McEntire, and Representative John Talley.
Applications are currently open for the 2023-2024 NSA class.
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Are You Considering Raising Chickens?
As the inflation and supply chain shortage theme of 2022 continues into 2023, many of us are seeing the impact at local grocery stores, specifically eggs.
“While there are initial expenses associated with building or purchasing a chicken coop, the ongoing costs are relatively low when compared to buying eggs from a store,” said Whitney Harrison, agribusiness management coordinator for Central Tech.
Egg prices have been significantly impacted by last year’s Avian flu outbreak, requiring many small and commercial egg producers to reduce their flock size. This decrease in supply has left us with a real-world lesson in basic economics.
Is Raising Chickens for Eggs a Cost-Effective Option?
If you’re looking for a cost-effective way to obtain fresh eggs, raising chickens might be the solution for you.
The cost of chicken feed will depend on the type of feed and the number of chickens you have, but purchasing feed in bulk or growing some of their food yourself can save you money.
“Additionally, raising chickens for their eggs means you’ll have fresh, high-quality eggs at your disposal, without the need for transportation or chemical preservation. Although there are some costs associated with raising chickens for eggs, many people find that it’s a worthwhile investment in the long run,” said Harrison.
Important Considerations Before Raising Chickens for Their Eggs
“Raising chickens for their eggs can be a fun and rewarding experience, but it does require work and preparation. By following these tips, you can create a safe and comfortable environment for your chickens to thrive and lay eggs,” said Harrison.
1. Local Regulations
Check local regulations to see if there are any regulations or zoning laws you need to follow. It’s important to note that certain locations may have restrictions on the number of chickens you can keep on your property or require permits.
2. Breed Choices
Choose a breed that is good for egg production, such as Leghorns, Rhode Island Reds, or Plymouth Rocks. Numerous chickens are available, each possessing its own distinct traits.
3. Chicks or Pullets
Decide whether to purchase chicks or pullets and provide adequate space in the coop and run. If you’re looking to raise chickens, keep in mind that chicks are less expensive, but require more care to reach pullet stage. Both chicks and pullets can be shipped to your local post office.
4. Coop Size
Build or purchase a well-ventilated and secure coop with nesting boxes. The golden rule is to provide a minimum of four-square feet of space inside the coop and 10 square feet of outdoor space per chicken.
5. Light and Egg Production
Consider lighting to ensure chickens receive at least 14 hours of light per day. If daylight hours are shorter, you’ll possibly need to supplement with artificial light to keep your chickens laying eggs.
6. Food and Water
Provide access to clean water, a balanced diet, and treats like fruits and vegetables. Chicken feed can be purchased at your local feed store or through an online source.
7. Egg Collection
Collect eggs daily and store them in a cool, dry place or refrigerate them. Typically, chickens will begin laying eggs around 4 to 6 months of age.
8. Cleaning and Health
Regularly clean the coop and monitor chicken health for signs of illness. This will include removing soiled bedding and disinfecting the coop frequently. Diseases and parasites can impact the well-being of your chickens, so it’s crucial to keep a close eye on their health. Watch out for signs of illness such as lethargy, loss of appetite, and unusual behavior. If you suspect that your chickens are unwell, it’s best to seek advice from a veterinarian who specializes in poultry.
9. Predator Protection
Protect chickens from predators such as raccoons, foxes, and hawks by securing the coop and run with fencing or netting. It’s important to double-check that your coop is secure from top to bottom being that predators not only climb but dig. This can be achieved by burying your coop’s border fence to help prevent them from entering. Opting for free-range chickens means subjecting them to higher predator risks.
To receive more information on how to start your own flock, enroll now for the two-night Chicken Tending class starting April 25th on the Central Tech Drumright campus.