One of Bret Pickens' greatest desires is to make sure that others have access to the same skill and leadership opportunities that he's had. That's why he so eagerly said "yes" when the post of masonry instructor at Meridian Technology Center was offered to him back in 1982 - a program he graduated from in 1977. That's also what makes Pickens one of Oklahoma's career tech champions. Career tech Champions are alumni of the system's programs or student organizations who have found success in a career and attribute much of that success to their career tech experience. Pickens learned a skill that he loves at Meridian, but gained leadership skills through his agricultural education program at Coyle High School. By graduation, he was ready for the world of work. "In both of these classes, I learned about responsibility, teamwork, follow-through, learning how to deal with defeat, public speaking, debate, joy, the importance of hard work, handling disappointment, and time management," Pickens said. Following high school graduation, Pickens did what he loved to do the most. He became a self-employed brick mason, improving his skills until earning journeyman status in 1981. He credits his first employer, builder Rusty Kraybill, for giving him the opportunity to contract masonry homes directly out of high school. "Mr. Kraybill was a source of great encouragement. He would help me find work when he didn't have any for me. I can't thank him enough for that." In 1982, Pickens was offered the position of masonry instructor at Meridian. And so began an 18-year labor of love. Pickens knows firsthand how occupational education impacts the lives of students. Preparing his students for success in the workplace is Pickens' passion. He works each day to inspire his students to be the very best brick masons they can be. Several of his students have been named state award winners as outstanding brick masons. One student, Bob Robertson, was named the nation's best brick masonry student in 1991. That same year, Pickens was chosen as the National Masonry Instructor of the Year by the Brick Institute of America. With great satisfaction, he has watched as students leave his classroom and go on to success in the business world. Many now own their own businesses. Others are earning high wages as journeyman masons in this high wage, high demand field. The quiet, dedicated teacher always directs the credit for the success of his graduates back to them.
	posted 1/4/2001	Story by: Vicki Marton Communications and Marketing Email: vmart@okcareertech.org

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