Armando Cazares, Jr.
Southwest Technology Center

Then: High school graduate knowing little English and having few career options.
SWTC’s Business and Computer Technology program helped Armando:

• Learn valuable computer, interpersonal and professional skills.
• Expand his career options.

Now: Armando is an SWTC student and counselor with Southwest Enterprises’ Youth Services, where he helps others overcome language barriers and set career goals.

Bryan Pool
Chisholm Trail Technology Center

Then: A shy high school junior without direction but with friends in the automotive program at CTTC.
The Automotive Service Technology program at CTTC helped Bryan:

• Develop communication and public relations skills.
• Earn two certifications of excellence and an associate degree in applied science.
• Prepare for the General Motors Automotive Service Educational Program.

Now: Bryan is an assistant automotive instructor at CTTC, completing a bachelor’s degree in training and development with plans to be a training workshop planner.

Tonya Randall
Northwest Technology Center

Then: Newspaper and layout class in high school peaked this senior’s interest. NWTC’s e-commerce and Web services program helped Tonya:

• Complete an associate degree, transferring credit earned at NWTC through an articulation agreement with Northern Oklahoma College.
• Learn a variety of skills in hands-on training.
• Land a position with a manufacturer expanding its market.

Now: Tonya is a Web and graphics designer for Vantage Plane Plastics.

Rhonda Clemmer, President
Eagle Systems and Services
Great Plains Technology Center

Then: Eagle Systems opened in 1985 with three employees.
Great Plains Economic Development Center helped Eagle Systems:

• Develop a strategic plan through three expansions in six years.
• Identify the training need with specific training.
• Save thousands of dollars in travel expenses for training.
• Overcome obstacles and realize financial success and growth.

Now: With 275 employees, the Eagles Systems co-owners were named Oklahoma’s Small Business Persons of the Year in 2003.

Long Wave
Metro Technology Centers

Then: In 2002, contracted very low frequency (VLF) work for the Navy; only four employees needed. Training at Metro Tech has contributed to:

• Expanding business to include military communication networks, design and installation of radio equipment, and software development.
• Being the only Oklahoma-based company to win a prestigious government contract estimated at $2 billion over a five-year period.
• Teaming and partnering with other companies to better respond to large contract requirements.

Now: Selected by Inc. 500 magazine as one of the fastest-growing, privately held, small businesses in the country.