February is designated as CareerTech Month.  As a member of the Board of Education for Northwest Technology Center, I wanted to share a few thoughts about the role that Northwest Tech plays in northwest Oklahoma and has for over 50 years.  NWTC offers educational opportunities to people of all ages and plays an important role in our communities.  Below are a few highlights. 

-Workforce and Economic Development-

The tech center holds business and industry trainings at both campuses, as well as, at off-site workplaces which include classes and industry specific/customized training. Last year, there were almost 10,000 enrollments in these trainings for about 150 businesses across the district. In addition, each semester around 200 Adult and Career Development (ACD) classes are scheduled.  Topics include: computers, healthcare and special interest courses.

NWTC is offering truck driver training courses.  On February 12, a Class A Truck Driver Training Course started on the Fairview campus and we hope to have classes this fall at the Alva campus. Other training resources available include the mobile welding trailer, mobile EMS ambulance trainer and a firearms training simulator.  NWTC is also addressing the nursing shortage by holding a PN Boot Camp and is working to improve rural broadband capabilities through training using grant funding. 

-Daytime Programs-

The NWTC School District consists of Alva, Aline-Cleo, Canton, Cherokee, Fairview, Freedom, Ringwood and Waynoka school districts.  The high school service rate (juniors and seniors) at NWTC is among the highest in the state.  Practical Nursing and Paramedic programs require a high school diploma to enroll.  BioMedical Science is available for high school students.   Auto Technology, Computer and Business, Cosmetology, Digital Design, Electrical Trades, Health Careers, Welding and Marketing, Video and Business Technology are open to high school and adult students.  Students can earn industry recognized credentials and in some programs, state licensure.  This year almost 300 students are enrolled in a Daytime program.  Students can also earn college credit while attending Northwest Tech through cooperative agreements and concurrent courses.    

Students have access to career guidance and a Career Center to help them create a resume’ and help with career research.  GED courses are also available.  Students can also take part in half-day ACT Prep Courses twice per year or choose to enroll in the ACT Boot Camp which includes a deeper focus on Math, English, Science and Reading. 

-CareerTech Student Organizations-

Each student enrolled in a Daytime Program can be active in a CareerTech student organization including, Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA), Business Professionals of America (BPA), SkillsUSA and the Superintendent’s Leadership Class.   Throughout the school year, students have opportunities to attend contests, plan events, and take field trips. 

In conclusion, I want to encourage each of you to utilize the opportunities available at NWTC.   As a local business owner, I have had the pleasure of employing and working with many who have received educational enrichment at Northwest Tech.   It is a valuable workforce development asset for northwest Oklahoma and I am proud to be affiliated with it. 

Respectfully,

Stan Kline, President, Northwest Technology Center Board of Education