2026 Award Nominees

Randall Fisher exemplifi es leadership, service, and dedication through his commitment to advancing fi refi ghter training across rural Oklahoma. A retired firefighter, he continues to invest in the next generation by mentoring and training firefighters, many of whom serve as volunteers with limited resources.

Recognizing financial barriers faced by rural departments, Randall has worked intently to make high-quality training accessible at little to no cost. Calling upon his strong community relationships, he collaborated with local fire stations to secure donated gear, engaged experienced fi re chiefs to provide training at minimal cost, and secured grant funding to offset expenses.

Through these efforts, Central Tech successfully hosted 16 OSUFST certifi cation classes totaling 354 training hours. Programs originally valued at over $100,000 were more than 85% funded, saving volunteer fi refi ghters over $90,000 while ensuring access to critical certifications. Randall’s innovative problem-solving and unwavering commitment have transformed limited resources into meaningful opportunities. His work has strengthened rural fi re departments, expanded access to essential training, and made a lasting impact on the communities Central Tech serves.

randall.fisher@centraltech.edu

James has quickly established himself as a dynamic and forward-thinking professional

at Gordon Cooper Technology Center. He has expanded opportunities within the district by partnering with RocketCert to bring continuing education and journeyman test preparation to the area, while also working with industry partners to support apprenticeship programs and industrial training.

Known for his solutions-oriented mindset, James actively seeks new partnerships, including collaboration with OSU-IT, to strengthen workforce development efforts. He

has also taken a leading role in advancing artifi cial intelligence adoption and training

at GCTC. His expertise has encouraged others to explore and utilize AI in their daily

work, fostering a culture of learning and continuous improvement.

Most notably, his training on NotebookLM has been highly successful, equipping staff

and clients with practical tools and a deeper understanding of human-in-the-loop

applications of AI. James continues to grow professionally, attending events such as

GoogleNext and the Oklahoma AI Luminary Conference, and supporting the Google AI Career Certificates initiative through GCTC’s partnership with Google and Coursera. A collaborative team player and emerging leader, James is helping guide meaningful change and innovation across the organization.

jamesg@gctech.edu

Brook Lindsay has demonstrated exceptional initiative, versatility, and commitment since joining the Business and Industry Services team. She consistently brings a broad range of skills and resources to effectively meet the evolving needs of industry and community partners. Her expertise in marketing design and branding has directly supported multiple small businesses, helping strengthen their identities, expand visibility, and improve overall market presence.

Beyond her professional role, Brook is deeply engaged in community leadership. She actively serves on several nonprofit and education boards, including the Pioneer Tech Foundation Board, and previously served as Chair of the Leadership Ponca City program. She also plays a key role in organizing and supporting high-impact fundraising events, where her strategic planning and organizational skills consistently drive strong results.

Brook is widely recognized as a problem solver who willingly steps into complex

situations and delivers practical, effective solutions. She serves as a connector of people, ideas, and resources, often dedicating time beyond normal work hours to ensure success. Her involvement with PACE through both the Professional Development and Conference Planning Committees further reflects her commitment to growth, collaboration, and excellence. Brook’s initiative, leadership, and service make her a valuable asset to her organization and community.

brookl@pioneertech.edu

Danielle Marlin has quickly distinguished herself as an energetic and forward-thinking professional at Northeast Tech. In her role as Ag Business Development Coordinator Trainer, she has strengthened connections between agricultural businesses, workforce needs, and training opportunities, creating meaningful impact early in her CareerTech career.

Danielle consistently demonstrates a proactive approach to workforce development by identifying emerging trends in agriculture and translating them into practical, high-impact training solutions. Her work ensures that programs remain relevant, responsive, and aligned with the evolving needs of both students and industry partners.

A key strength of Danielle’s leadership is her ability to build strong relationships. She collaborates effectively with instructors, business partners, and community stakeholders, fostering trust and ensuring programs deliver real-world value. Her professionalism, reliability, and enthusiasm make her a respected and trusted partner. Danielle is also committed to continuous improvement, actively seeking feedback, embracing professional growth opportunities, and stepping into challenges beyond her formal role. Her passion for CareerTech and agricultural workforce development is evident in all aspects of her work. Danielle represents the future of CareerTech leadership, and her contributions are already making a lasting impact.

danielle.marlin@netech.edu

Sharla McMillin brings valuable industry experience and instructional leadership to Workforce and Economic Development, delivering high-quality healthcare training aligned with current workforce needs. She began her CareerTech journey as an adjunct instructor before becoming the program’s first full-time health instructor. Her industry background allows her to deliver instruction that is both practical and aligned with current workforce needs.

Sharla has led extensive curriculum development in Canvas and teaches a wide range of programs, including Medical Assisting, Phlebotomy, CNA, MAT, EKG, CPR, IV Therapy, and Nurse Refresher. New WED health programs are often piloted through her first, reflecting her expertise and commitment to quality. Known for her student-centered approach, Sharla builds strong, supportive relationships that contribute to exceptional retention rates. When students do withdraw, it is typically due to circumstances beyond their control. Her dedication to student success is further demonstrated by a 99% certification pass rate across her programs.

In addition to her instructional role, Sharla mentors new adjunct instructors, serving as a subject matter expert and resource in both healthcare training and Canvas development. Her leadership, compassion, and measurable results make her a highly deserving Emerging New Professional.

smcmillin@sotech.edu

Lacy Lacefield has demonstrated sustained leadership and forward-thinking practices in postsecondary CTE by redesigning adult health programs to remove access barriers while maintaining academic rigor and workforce relevance. As the FLEX Health Coordinator, she oversees short-term adult health programs, including curriculum development, staff supervision, student advising, and industry alignment. She manages

ten concurrent, rolling-start courses with weekly entry points, expanding access for working adults while ensuring consistent quality.

Lacy has led student-centered improvements that transformed program delivery, including flexible enrollment models, redesigned curricula with required in-person lab practice, scenario-based training aligned to state certification standards, and group skill check-offs that promote accountability among online learners. To strengthen engagement, she developed a centralized student tracking system that enables instructors to monitor progress, identify barriers early, and provide targeted support. These efforts have improved communication, persistence, and completion, particularly for nontraditional adult learners. Her leadership is grounded in coaching and equity. She supports instructors, advocates for students, and collaborates with workforce partners to strengthen healthcare pathways. With over 20 years of nursing experience, Lacy brings clinical expertise and a systems-focused approach to advancing adult workforce education and the mission of Oklahoma PACE.

lacey.lacefield@cvtech.edu

Jim Lawson played a key role in developing a collaborative model that brought together a full-time program, its students, and instructor to train an adult short-term class during regular school hours. This creative use of existing resources demonstrates Jim’s innovative thinking and dedication to CTE. This approach created a unique, dual-benefit learning environment in which both high school and adult learners gained valuable, hands-on experience while working toward certification requirements. By integrating these groups, Jim maximized available resources while enhancing the educational experience for all participants.

The program focused on developing essential skills in fiber optics, including splicing, testing, and installation. Over the course of two weeks, students were able to apply their learning in real-world scenarios, strengthening both technical ability and confidence. The initiative also allowed the instructor to fully utilize training equipment and curriculum, demonstrating its effectiveness as a model for future offerings. This collaboration between programs and institutions highlights Jim’s forward-thinking approach to workforce development. By identifying opportunities to increase efficiency and expand access, he has created a sustainable and replicable model that will continue to benefit students and industry partners. Jim’s innovation reflects a commitment to maximizing impact through creativity, collaboration, and resourcefulness.

jlawson@pontotoctech.edu

Through the creation of SouthernTech’s Facilities Maintenance program, Jason Phipps has demonstrated exceptional innovation in workforce development. This comprehensive training pathway integrates eight high-demand trades—carpentry, drywall, electrical, plumbing, HVAC, masonry, welding, and landscaping—into one cohesive program designed to meet real workforce needs. What sets this program apart is both its structure and its accessibility. Jason successfully secured full funding for the program through a $460,000 grant and leveraged additional support through Training for Industry Growth (TIG), allowing students to complete all eight courses without financial barriers. This approach ensures that participants gain broad, job-ready skills while maintaining equitable access to training. The program was initially launched using adjunct instructors, demonstrating flexibility and responsiveness to workforce demand. As enrollment and outcomes

grew, the program transitioned to a full-time instructor model, reflecting both sustainability and long-term value. It also serves as a pathway for students to transition into full-time programs such as HVAC, Electrical, Carpentry, or Welding.

This program not only addresses critical workforce shortages, but also creates a clear, accessible pathway for students to gain multiple certifications, increase employability, and enter the workforce with versatile skills for lifelong career growth. Its creative funding approach, integrated curriculum, and proven outcomes together make it a model of innovation.

jphipps@sotech.edu

Haley Ragan’s work with Northwest Technology Center’s Small Business Resource Conferences and Launch Local Business Model Competition began as an innovative approach to workforce and economic development in rural Northwest Oklahoma. Her efforts were rooted in intentional small business planning, one-on-one

technical assistance, and ongoing needs assessment with entrepreneurs, lenders, and community partners.

In response to identified needs, Haley partnered with Major County Economic Development and the Fairview Chamber of Commerce to host a Small Business Resource Conference focused on accessible education, planning support, and connections to critical resources. When Launch Rural OK announced OCAST funding for regional small business conferences, she leveraged the opportunity to expand the scope, scale, and reach of the event. Strong attendance and engagement confirmed the need for more hands-on support, beyond a single-day conference.

Building on that momentum, Haley supported the expansion of the conference to the Alva campus and introduced a new component: the Launch Local Business Model Competition. She designed, implemented, and managed the competition, which debuted at the Fall Small Business Conference. The competition was intentionally structured to be accessible to startups and early-stage businesses. The inaugural competition received 12 applications and awarded $15,000 in cash prizes, creating immediate and measurable impact. As a result, Launch Rural OK has engaged NWTC to help replicate the model across regional conferences in 2026. Haley has shared materials and lessons learned to ensure the model is scalable, sustainable, and impactful across the CTE community.

hragan@nwtech.edu

Brad Rickelman and the Business and Entrepreneurial Services team at Meridian Technology Center developed Small Business University, a program designed to strengthen and support emerging businesses within the community.

Now in its third year, the initiative reflects a strategic approach to workforce and economic development through targeted entrepreneurship training and collaboration. In partnership with the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, Small Business University provides structured programming and cohort-based learning opportunities that equip participants with the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to grow and sustain their businesses. The program emphasizes practical application, peer networking, and ongoing support, creating a strong foundation for long-term success.

The impact of this initiative extends beyond individual participants, contributing to a more vibrant and resilient local economy. Its success has been recognized at the state level, including a feature in the Oklahoma Department of Commerce magazine, and has generated interest from other communities seeking to replicate the model. Brad and the BES Team’s forward-thinking approach and commitment to innovation have resulted in a scalable program that strengthens small businesses and supports economic growth. This work continues to create meaningful opportunities for entrepreneurs while positioning CareerTech as a valuable partner in community development.

bradr@meridiantech.edu

Lacie Smith has demonstrated exceptional innovation in EMS education by developing a highly effective approach to teaching advanced patient care. Recognizing gaps in traditional training, she created a model that enhances student understanding while preparing them to enter the workforce ready to contribute immediately.

Her approach, often referred to by students as “The Lacie Method,” replicates high-stress, real-world EMS environments within the classroom. By bridging the gap between simulation and real-life application, students build both technical skill and confidence, consistently performing above entry-level expectations. Lacie has also demonstrated resourceful creativity by modifying standard training mannequins with everyday materials to create high-fidelity simulation tools not previously available. This allows for more immersive, hands-on learning without the need for costly equipment.

In addition to technical training, Lacie prioritizes the emotional preparedness of her students, fostering open conversations around mental health and the realities of EMS work. She builds lasting relationships that extend beyond the classroom and continues to mentor students as they enter the field. Her influence also extends to industry partners, contributing to enhancements in training environments such as EMSA’s simulation space. Lacie’s commitment to excellence is making a lasting impact on EMS education and workforce readiness.

lacies@gctech.edu

Troy Steidley developed a strategic partnership between Northeast Tech, Mid-America Industrial Park, and OSU Institute of Technology, to create a targeted ellectrical and Electronics Technology training program. This collaboration addresses critical workforce needs by aligning education directly with industry demand.

Mid-America Industrial Park is home to more than 80 businesses across manufacturing, energy, aerospace, and high-tech industries, all of which require a highly skilled workforce in electrical and electronics systems. Through this partnership, Troy helped design a program that delivers specialized training in areas such as electrical systems, fluid power, instrumentation fundamentals, and programmable logic controllers. 

A key innovation of this program is the integration of micro-credentials and digital badges, allowing students to gain immediate recognition for their skills while earning up to 27 credit hours. This flexible, stackable approach provides learners with clear pathways to employment and career advancement. Working closely with industry partners, Troy has ensured the curriculum remains relevant, responsive, and aligned with their expectations. The result of his work is a scalable model that strengthens workforce pipelines and supports economic growth. Troy’s collaborative and forward-thinking approach continues to drive meaningful innovation within CareerTech.

troy.steidley@netech.edu

Johnny Thornburgh has demonstrated his commitment to supporting industry by identifying practical solutions to real-world workforce challenges. When partners raised concerns about inefficiencies in traditional MIG and TIG welding processes— including metal deformation, extensive preparation time, and post-process cleanup—

he recognized an opportunity to introduce a more effective approach. He worked closely with industry partners to explore handheld laser welding technology as a solution, highlighting its ability to improve precision, reduce heat- affected zones, and significantly decrease both preparation and cleanup time. This shift not only addressed quality concerns but also created opportunities to improve productivity and reduce labor costs.

To support implementation, Johnny coordinated a comprehensive, hands-on training experience led by an industry expert. The three-day training combined classroom instruction with real-world application, allowing participants to test the technology on actual projects within their own work environments. This approach provided immediate proof of concept and measurable results.

Due to strong engagement and positive outcomes, additional training has been scheduled to further develop skills and expand access for new participants. Johnny’s ability to connect industry challenges with actionable training solutions is creating meaningful impact for both employers and the workforce.

johnnyt@pioneertech.edu

Patty Daniel has demonstrated exceptional leadership in workforce and economic development by creating strong, collaborative connections between industry, students, and CareerTech programs. Her work focuses on aligning training with real workforce needs while helping students identify meaningful career pathways. Patty takes a highly customized, industry-driven approach to workforce development, integrating employer needs directly into program design rather than relying on one- size-fits-all solutions. Through her efforts, she has developed more than 25 lasting partnerships with manufacturing and industry leaders, consistently expanding opportunities for students and strengthening regional workforce pipelines.

Her collaboration with instructors, full-time programs, and apprenticeship partners has created meaningful work-based learning experiences. As a result, students are better prepared for the workforce and often secure employment quickly, with some being actively recruited by industry partners. With more than 25 years of experience in manufacturing leadership, Patty brings valuable industry insight, strong relationship- building skills, and a commitment to purpose-driven work. She is known for her ability to build trust, deliver results, and create long-term impact.

Patty’s leadership continues to strengthen connections between education and industry, advancing workforce development and economic growth across her district.

pdaniel@cvtech.edu

Staci has demonstrated exceptional leadership in workforce and economic development by responding to critical healthcare staffing needs with strategic program expansion and innovation. In the wake of COVID-19, demand for healthcare training surged, with health-related internships becoming the most requested placements through the local high school program. In response, Staci quickly became the driving force behind expanding health program offerings.

Drawing on her diverse background in nursing—as an LPN, educator, and practitioner across home health, pediatrics, and cardiology—Staci identified workforce gaps and translated them into targeted training solutions. She led the development and launch of programs including Dental Assisting and Massage Therapy, and reworked the Phlebotomy program to better align with industry needs. Staci’s success is rooted in purposeful collaboration. She engaged industry professionals as adjunct instructors, secured clinical sites, partnered with curriculum writers, and worked closely with school leadership to ensure program quality and sustainability. The Dental Assisting program, supported by TANF, Work Ready Oklahoma, and Tribal partners, reflects her ability to leverage resources effectively. Each cohort has reached full enrollment, with strong placement outcomes—demonstrating clear impact, high demand, and meaningful contributions to the regional healthcare workforce.

stacid@pioneertech.edu

Tamara Hicks has demonstrated innovative leadership in workforce development by addressing critical healthcare workforce shortages through strategic partnerships and targeted program development. Recognizing the growing demand for skilled clinical professionals, she conducted comprehensive needs assessments with long-term care administrators to better understand workforce challenges and opportunities.

Through this process, Tamara identified key barriers, including the rising cost of training and a lack of professional preparedness among new hires. In response, she collaborated with industry partners and the Oklahoma Department of CareerTech to develop and launch an innovative CNA Training for Industry Growth (TIG) program. This program not only addresses the clinical workforce shortage but also reduces financial barriers for participants, making training more accessible to individuals entering the field. In addition, the program emphasizes professionalism and workplace readiness, ensuring graduates are better prepared to succeed in their roles.

Tamara’s ability to align training solutions with industry needs has strengthened partnerships and created a more sustainable workforce pipeline. Her proactive approach and commitment to solving real-world challenges continue to make a meaningful impact on both students and healthcare employers.

thicks@matech.edu

Heather Pollock has made a significant impact on workforce development in the area of early childhood education through her leadership, expertise, and commitment to community partnerships. With a strong background as a Childcare Center Director, she brings valuable real-world experience to her current role, where she supports childcare professionals and facilities across the region. Heather plays a key role in delivering Child Development Associate (CDA) training while also working directly with local childcare centers to strengthen program quality and support continuous improvement. Her efforts have helped multiple centers achieve national accreditation, enhancing the standard of care and education for children in the community.

Through her work, Heather provides hands-on guidance to childcare staff and directors, helping them develop skills, improve policies, and meet industry standards. Her influence extends beyond individual programs, contributing to a stronger and more sustainable early childhood workforce. Heather’s expertise and dedication have made her a trusted resource within the community. Her work not only supports childcare providers but also creates lasting benefits for families and the broader region. Heather’s leadership continues to strengthen workforce development and elevate the quality of early childhood education.

heather.pollock@tricountytech.edu

Shawn has demonstrated sustained excellence and leadership in Career and Technical Education through long-term service within Oklahoma ACTE and the PACE Division. Over multiple years, she has worked intentionally to expand the visibility, reach, and impact of postsecondary CTE, Business and Industry Services, and Workforce and Economic Development across Oklahoma. Her service includes roles as Oklahoma PACE President-Elect and President, and she currently serves as Vice President for PACE on the ACTE Board of Directors, where she continues to advocate for workforce education at both the state and national levels.

In her professional role, Shawn advances CTE by expanding strategic partnerships with business, industry, municipalities, chambers of commerce, and economic development organizations. She aligns training with verified workforce demand, expands access to rural and previously unserved employers, and ensures CV Tech

delivers responsive, employer-driven solutions that strengthen workforce pipelines. Shawn has led the launch of employer-driven initiatives, supported the establishment of a state-approved business incubator, and helped form regional and statewide alliances that continue to produce measurable outcomes. She is also a presenter, mentor, and active leader in multiple professional and community organizations. Grounded in servant leadership, Shawn remains focused on advancing opportunities for others and strengthening the long-term impact of workforce education across Oklahoma.

shawn.freie@cvtech.edu

Through her commitment to expanding access to high-quality healthcare training and strengthening workforce pathways, Melissa Powell has demonstrated excellence in Career and Technical Education. At Northwest Technology Center, Melissa cultivated strong partnerships with regional hospitals, clinics, EMS services, school administrators, and state agencies to create clear, stackable healthcare pathways. These partnerships have resulted in high-impact hybrid programs that increase accessibility for adult learners while maintaining rigorous standards. In the Hybrid Phlebotomy program, students have achieved a 100% pass rate on national certification. She has also expanded opportunities through an Enhanced Phlebotomy Clinical, providing advanced standing toward a Certified Medical Laboratory Assistant pathway within the CareerTech system.

Melissa continues to modernize training options, including transitioning programs, such as Certified Medication Aide, to hybrid formats to better serve working adults. In addition, she collaborates with partners to enhance public safety training, ensuring programs remain aligned with current workforce needs. Melissa’s leadership, innovation, and commitment to meaningful outcomes continue to strengthen workforce development and create lasting opportunities for students and communities.

Sara Edwards is a strong leader in workforce development who is deeply committed to her community. Th rough her outreach and partnerships, she has strengthened collaboration between Northeast Technology Center Adult Education and the Claremore Economic Development Authority, creating a model for business-driven workforce development. A cornerstone of this partnership is the Career Training Scholarship Program, launched in 2023. This initiative removes financial barriers and provides individuals with access to vocational training and industry-recognized credentials that lead directly to employment. Building on this success, Sara has helped expand regional workforce training efforts in high-demand career fields critical to local industry.

The program’s impact is significant, with hundreds of individuals receiving scholarships and achieving high completion rates. These opportunities provide access to career pathways such as CNC Machining, Welding, Certified Nurse Aide, Commercial Driver’s License, and Phlebotomy—helping address workforce shortages

while transforming lives. Sara’s work reflects a proactive, data-informed approach to workforce development. By aligning economic development efforts with technical education, she has strengthened connections between industry and training, ensuring meaningful outcomes for both individuals and employers. Sara’s leadership, collaboration, and measurable impact make her a strong ambassador for CareerTech and the communities she serves.

sara.edwards@netech.edu

Erica Gallamore has demonstrated exceptional dedication and leadership as a valued member of her team and an active contributor to the CareerTech and PACE communities. Her ability to adapt, lead, and serve has made her a trusted resource both within her organization and across the region. Erica plays a critical role in managing emergency services programming and often serves as the primary instructor in the field. Her willingness to step into demanding roles and ensure high-quality training reflects her strong commitment to both students and industry partners. She consistently rises to meet new challenges, embracing change with a positive and solutions-focused approach.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Erica is deeply engaged in her local community. She serves as a representative in Nowata County, participates on community boards, and has served on multiple PACE committees. Her involvement strengthens connections between CareerTech, local partners, and the communities they serve. Erica is also committed to her own professional growth, having completed BISCert Pro and continuing to expand her knowledge and skills. She represents her organization and PACE with professionalism, integrity, and a genuine passion for service. Erica’s leadership and dedication make her a strong ambassador for CareerTech and the communities she supports.

erica.gallamore@tricountytech.edu

Molly is a respected leader and ambassador for workforce development, with a strong record of service within Pioneer Technology Center, CareerTech PACE, and her community. She is known for her collaborative approach and her commitment to advancing workforce development through partnerships, innovation, and service. Molly actively shares her expertise through participation in PACE and ACTE conferences, not only as an attendee but as a presenter who provides meaningful insights and practical strategies to peers across the state. Her dedication to continuous learning has positioned her as a trusted mentor, coach, and resource for others. 

Her professional accomplishments reflect a strong standard of excellence, including credentials as an Associate Certified Coach, Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach, and Certified Economic Developer through the International Economic Development Council. These achievements support her work in talent development, economic growth, and workforce advancement. Molly’s impact extends beyond her credentials. She is widely recognized as an engaging trainer and collaborative leader who empowers others through mentorship and professional development. Her willingness to share knowledge and support colleagues strengthens the overall capacity of the CareerTech network. Molly’s commitment to service makes her a strong ambassador for CareerTech and the communities she serves.

mollyk@pioneertech.edu

Cama Watts is a dedicated ambassador for PACE and the CareerTech system, known for her leadership, service, and ability to build meaningful connections. Through her commitment to connecting people and ideas, she has made a meaningful impact both within her organization and across the state. Cama has served in key leadership roles, including Conference Planning Co-Chair and Professional Development Co-Chair, and is actively engaged in both ACTE and PACE events. She is recognized as a trusted resource, frequently sharing her expertise on artificial intelligence integration and the importance of strong community relationships.

Her leadership is defined by her ability to connect people and ideas. Cama consistently fosters partnerships between education and industry, helping create collaborative opportunities that strengthen workforce development efforts. She has also played a significant role in encouraging professional engagement, inspiring colleagues to become more involved in PACE and contributing to the growth of the division.

Within her organization, Cama has helped build a strong sense of community, mentoring colleagues and supporting their professional development. Her guidance has helped others find connection, purpose, and growth within the CareerTech network. Cama’s ability to bring people together makes her an exceptional ambassador for PACE and the CareerTech system.

camaw@gctech.edu