Oklahoma CareerTech statement on the passing of Wes Watkins
Oklahoma CareerTech joins the state in mourning the passing of former U.S. Rep. Wes Watkins, a tireless advocate for education, economic development and workforce training in Oklahoma. His years of service in both the Oklahoma Legislature and the U.S. Congress left an indelible mark on our state, particularly in the areas of career and technology education.
Throughout his career, Congressman Watkins championed initiatives that strengthened workforce development and expanded access to education and job training for Oklahomans. Watkins was inducted into the Oklahoma CareerTech Hall of Fame in 2001.
“His leadership played a crucial role in promoting Oklahoma’s career and technology education system as a model for preparing students and workers for high-demand careers,” said CareerTech State Director Brent Haken.
“His unwavering belief in the power of technical education helped shape policies that continue to benefit Oklahoma’s economy and workforce today.”
Watkins’ vision and dedication to public service have left a lasting legacy, and his impact will be felt for generations to come, Haken said. Oklahoma CareerTech extends our deepest condolences to his family and friends and all who were fortunate to work alongside him.
CareerTech Champion: Dustin Ford - Central Technology Center
Dustin Ford’s path to success was shaped by his early passion for science, robotics and hands-on learning. Growing up in Ripley, Oklahoma, he attended Central Technology Center for four years, a decision that laid the foundation for his career in information technology and cybersecurity.
His journey with Central Tech began in middle school when he attended a summer camp that sparked his interest in technology. Several family members had already attended the tech center, and he knew he wanted to follow in their footsteps. As a sophomore, he toured the school during what is now the CT Showcase and eagerly registered for the robotics program. However, by his junior year, the program had moved to another campus, making the commute unaffordable. This unexpected challenge led him to explore other options and eventually enroll in the pre-engineering program before transitioning to cybersecurity.
Read more on the Oklahoma CareerTech website.
Great Plains instructor receives excellence award
The Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence recently presented Great Plains Technology Center instructor Nadine Hanefield a Medal for Excellence in Secondary Teaching.
Hanefield is a service careers special education instructor at Great Plains. She is one of five Oklahoma educators to receive a 2025 Medal for Excellence, and the only secondary teacher to receive the honor.
Hanefield introduced new focuses to the program, like soft skills training, resume building, lawn care and horticulture, after studying her students’ interests and strengths. She helped establish the industry-recognized HospitAbilities Certification for special education students, and her students also participate in Oklahoma SkillsUSA competitions.
Read more on the Oklahoma Foundation for Excellence website and see photos of the presentation on the Great Plains Facebook page.
Mid-America deputy superintendent retires
Mid-America Technology Center has announced the retirement of Deputy Superintendent Denny Prince.
Prince joined MATC in 2015 as director of operations. He became assistant superintendent in 2017 and deputy superintendent in 2020.
He previously served as superintendent of Lexington Public Schools.
At MATC, he oversaw construction of a new information technology building, a new student commons area, additional conference rooms and a safe room, along with the expansion of the administration wing.
Read more on The Purcell Register website.
State Senate passes National Guard tuition bill
The Oklahoma Senate has passed Senate Bill 31, which would provide CareerTech tuition aid to Oklahoma National Guard members.
The bill, by Sen. Carri Hicks, D-Oklahoma City, would create the Oklahoma National Guard CareerTech Assistance Act and provide tuition aid to Guard members who enroll in programs that lead to licensure or certification.
It passed 47-0 and has been sent to the House of Representatives.
Read more on the Oklahoma Senate website.
Useful links
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State Agency Assistance at a Glance
National Research Center for Career and Technical Education
OK Career Guide Training Opportunities
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