CareerTech Student Leaders Learn at State Capitol       

By Paula Bowles
Oklahoma Department of CareerTech                     

Students involved in leadership training programs at Oklahoma technology centers were at the State Capitol on March 28 to participate in CareerTech Student Leadership Day at the Capitol. Visits with legislators, student networking and tours of the Capitol were
on the agenda for the day, as well as observing the legislative process from the House and Senate galleries.

Students will hear from Rep. Joe Dorman, Sen. Tom Ivester, and Patrick McGregor, executive director, Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education. They will be speaking on leadership and students' roles in elevating Oklahoma's economy as future leaders of our state.

"The students who participate in this event represent tomorrow's leaders, and could go on to become our elected officials one day," said Co-chair Susan Biddy, from Caddo Kiowa Technology Center. "They have been involved in leadership activities throughout the school year, in addition to preparing for their future careers."

In addition to introducing students to the legislative process, this event allows Oklahoma legislators to hear students tell about the impact CareerTech programs have on their education and preparation for the workforce.

"The students look forward to telling their elected officials about what they're learning,” said Co-chair Jeff Knapp, from Francis Tuttle Technology Center. “While some may have visited the State Capitol before, they may not have had the opportunity to speak directly with their legislators or see them deliberating legislation on the floor.”

For more information about CareerTech leadership programs available throughout the state, please contact your local technology center, or visit the CareerTech website at www.okcareertech.org.