Story by Ann Houston

CareerTech Student Leaders Learn at the Capitol

Students involved in leadership training programs at 13 of Oklahoma's 29 Technology Centers converged upon the State Capitol on March 30, participating in the third annual CareerTech Student Leadership Day at the Capitol.

One hundred sixty-nine students from across the state participated in the event. Technology centers participating included Autry, Enid; Caddo Kiowa, Fort Cobb; Canadian Valley, Chickasha and El Reno; Eastern Oklahoma County, Choctaw; Francis Tuttle, Oklahoma City; Great Plains, Lawton; Mid Del, Midwest City; Moore Norman, Norman; Wes Watkins, Wetumka; Tulsa Tech, Broken Arrow and Lemley campuses, according to Jeff Knapp, event co-chair and media relations coordinator at Francis Tuttle.

Visits with legislators, student networking, tours of the Capitol and observing the legislative process in action from the gallery of each Chamber were all part of the day's agenda. Students heard directly from Rep. Mike Thompson, District 100 in northwest Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Secretary of State Susan Savage, and Dr. Richard Coberg.

“Speakers addressed leadership styles, the responsibilities of today's leaders, and encouraged students to become leaders in whatever their life's pursuits may be,” said Knapp.

In addition to introducing students to the legislative process, this activity allowed Oklahoma legislators to see and hear directly from students about the impact that their respective CareerTech program has had in their education and preparation for the workforce.

"The students who participated in this event represent the leaders of tomorrow. Many have the potential to be elected officials one day," said Susan Biddy, co-chair and public information officer from Caddo Kiowa Technology Center. "They're movers and shakers, and have been actively involved in leadership activities throughout the school year."

"This is an exciting time in Oklahoma government with the turnover in House leadership,” Knapp said. “It’s important that our students get to know their legislators and how their votes affect their lives.”

*See photo gallery here