Author: Dale Latham, Superintendent/CEO of Southwest Tech
As we dive into Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month this February, Southwest Tech takes great pride in reflecting on our achievements and the positive impact we've had on our students, community, and local businesses. This month serves as a reminder of the remarkable strides we've made, and the accomplishments we've garnered paint a picture of success that we're eager to share. Enrollment at Southwest Tech has seen an impressive increase over the last few years. This surge in interest reflects the growing recognition of the value and impact of career and technical education in shaping successful futures. It is heartening to witness more students choosing Southwest Tech as their gateway to fulfilling careers and continued education. What truly sets Southwest Tech apart is our commitment to ensuring positive outcomes for our graduates. An impressive 96% of our students who complete a program have positive placement upon graduation. This means they are either gainfully employed, contributing to our nation's defense through military service, or continuing their education journey. These numbers affirm the effectiveness of our programs in facilitating successful transitions into the workforce or further education. We recognize the importance of supporting our local workforce and have initiated efforts to collaborate with area companies that are in a position to hire these skilled individuals. Southwest Tech works closely with these companies to develop custom training programs tailored to the needs of the displaced workers. This proactive approach ensures that these individuals will be well prepared to transition seamlessly into their new jobs, demonstrating our commitment to turning challenges into opportunities for growth and success. Adaptability is at the core of Southwest Tech's mission, and our ability to pivot quickly to support the needs of our communities and businesses is a testament to our agility. We understand the importance of aligning our programs with the evolving demands of the workforce, and we take pride in being a dynamic force that positively impacts the lives of our students and the prosperity of our region. As we navigate Career and Technical Education Month, let us continue to celebrate the achievements, partnerships, and transformative impact of Oklahoma CareerTech. Southwest Tech remains committed to empowering individuals, supporting our communities, and driving economic growth through innovative education and workforce development initiatives. Together, we build a future where success knows no bounds.