WILBURTON, Okla. – Kiamichi Tech is proud to announce the successful completion of its inaugural BEST STEP program, offered through Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS). This two-part program aims to equip Pre-ETS students with essential employability and soft skills, preparing them for future employment opportunities.

The first phase of the program, BEST (Building Employment Skills for Today), attracted 76 students who were eager to prepare for real-life jobs and careers. During this camp, students engaged with the Microburst Curriculum, a comprehensive platform designed to teach and practice essential employability and soft skills.

“Our students had the opportunity to receive the Microburst Employer’s Choice certification during the BEST program, which is highly regarded when it comes to soft skill training,” said Michelle Murray, Director of Student Services at Kiamichi Tech. “This training helps the students know how to best handle different interpersonal situations that may arise in the workplace and marks their readiness for the next step in their career journey.”

In the second phase, STEP (Summer Transition Employment Program), students applied their newly acquired skills in real-world settings through a four-week work-based learning program. This program supported 70 students in local community businesses within the Kiamichi Tech district. These paid internships not only allowed students to gain their first work experience but also helped them build confidence and further prepare them for future employment.

“Success stories continue to emerge from this program, with six students already receiving permanent job offers as a result of their internships,” said Shelley Free, Kiamichi Tech Superintendent, during her monthly report to the Board of Education. “Through this innovative initiative, students are empowered to take their first steps towards a successful career, equipped with the skills and experience they need to thrive in today’s job market.”

In 2023-2024, the Pre-ETS program served 1,409 students in southeast Oklahoma. Pre-ETS specialists spent over 1,500 hours creating adaptive learning materials and innovative activities that meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities. Learn more about this program and how to participate at ktc.edu/pre-ets.

Kiamichi Technology Centers (Kiamichi Tech) has played a significant role in the growth of southeast Oklahoma communities since 1968, serving nine full and four partial counties. With a mission to ‘Prepare People for Success,” Kiamichi Tech meets local workforce needs through full-time career training programs, short-term courses and customized training for businesses. The district is led by the vision and guidance of Superintendent Shelley Free and a seven-member Board of Education.

Kiamichi Tech is part of the Oklahoma CareerTech system, which offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts and operates on 60 campuses across the state. CareerTech plays a vital role in developing a world-class workforce for Oklahoma employers and prepares Oklahomans to succeed in the workplace, in education and in life.

 

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