Ron Vandever
Ronald Vandever devoted his life to expanding opportunities for students through career and technology education. During his career of more than 30 years, he became a visionary leader whose work transformed Oklahoma CareerTech at the local, state and national levels.
Vandever began his career as an industrial arts instructor at Bristow High School, then joined Central Technology Center in 1968 as director of student services. Over time, he rose through the ranks from assistant superintendent to associate superintendent and eventually to superintendent, helping shape Central Tech into one of the nation’s leading technology centers.
Vandever pioneered innovative programs focused on student success and workforce readiness. He created one of Oklahoma’s first comprehensive career guidance systems, developed summer technology camps for junior high students and helped establish groundbreaking programs in telecommunications, transportation, engineering and applied academics, which resulted in the current Oklahoma School of Science and Mathematics.
His leadership also extended beyond the classroom. Vandever helped launch Oklahoma’s first dropout prevention initiative, Project GRADS, and supported programs that expanded opportunities for students with disabilities and underserved populations. He worked closely with educators, legislators and industry leaders to strengthen CareerTech education across the state.
Under Vandever’s leadership, Central Tech earned the Gold Star Award of Excellence and became recognized for outstanding student achievement, workforce partnerships and innovation.
Throughout his career, Vandever received numerous honors, including Oklahoma Vocational Association Administrator of the Year, American Vocational Association Administrator of the Year and the Francis Tuttle Award of Leadership in CareerTech Education.
Outside of work, he was involved locally with the chambers of commerce in Bristow, Drumright, Cushing and Sapulpa; the Bristow Planning Commission; and Bristow Industrial Authority.
Yet his greatest legacy lives in the countless students, educators and leaders he inspired.
Today, that legacy continues through the Ron Vandever Memorial Golf Tournament, which provides financial support to students pursuing career and technology education.
Vandever was married to his high school sweetheart, Ashley Vandever, for 49 years. Together, they raised two children: Jeff, who graduated from the Central Tech welding program in Drumright and now serves as the welding instructor at the Central Tech Campus in Sapulpa; and LeAnn, who is a high school science teacher. They were also blessed with six grandchildren: Lauren, Brian, Michael, Brittany, Kyle and Zach.
Vandever’s lifelong commitment to innovation, leadership and student success continues to shape the future of CareerTech education in Oklahoma and beyond.
