Mid-America Technology Center returned from the 59th Annual Oklahoma CareerTech Summit with multiple statewide recognitions, reaffirming the district’s commitment to excellence, leadership, and innovation in career and technical education.
The Oklahoma CareerTech Summit brings together CareerTech professionals from across the state to collaborate, share best practices, celebrate excellence, and prepare for the upcoming school year.
Leading the honors was Mid-America’s 19th consecutive Gold Star Award, one of the highest distinctions a CareerTech district can receive. The Gold Star Award recognizes excellence in student achievement, workforce partnerships, innovation, and continuous improvement, reflecting Mid-America’s ongoing commitment to preparing students for success.
Welding Instructor Larry Tuck, received the Outstanding New Professional Award, recognizing educators who are making an exceptional impact early in their CareerTech careers. Mid-America was one of only six technology centers in Oklahoma to have an educator receive this recognition.
Sarah Raney, SIM Instructor and Resource Nurse, was selected as a 2025–2026 OkACTE Fellow, a leadership development program that prepares CareerTech professionals to strengthen the future of career and technical education across Oklahoma.
Three MATC employees were also honored with the Dr. Dennis Portis III Rising Star Award, recognizing emerging leaders who are making a meaningful impact within Oklahoma CareerTech: Dr. Amy Cornforth, Assistant Superintendent of Instruction Shelly Eubank, Special Services Coordinator Cody Barton, Small Business PRO Coordinator The Summit also recognized several Mid-America employees for their outstanding contributions to Oklahoma CareerTech.
Dr. Amanda Cummings, Full-Time Program Director, was elected President-Elect of the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education (OkACTE).
Terri Hays, Director of Financial Services, was elected President-Elect of the OkACTE Administrative Division, further demonstrating Mid-America’s leadership beyond its own campus.
Mid-America’s leadership extended well beyond awards and recognitions, with several employees stepping into additional leadership roles and sharing their expertise with CareerTech professionals from across the state.
Dallas Krout was elected OkACTE PAC Chair.
Cody Barton was elected PACE Vice President.
April Johnson was elected Vice President for the Oklahoma Health Science Educators (OKHSE) Rehabilitation Services section.
Shelly Eubank was elected CTE4ALL President Elect Sarah Raney was elected Secretary of the Oklahoma Health Science Educators (OKHSE).
KaLisa King was elected Vice President for Practical Nursing Instructors.
Laryssa Couch was elected President of the Practical Nursing Directors and Coordinators Council.
Additionally, Nicole Barlow presented over the Dignity Index during the Health Career Education Divisional Meeting, and April Johnson presented Gatekeeping: Sharing the Best Practices during the OKHSE Divisional Meeting.
“These recognitions and leadership roles reflect the dedication and professionalism of our entire team,” said Mike Eubank, superintendent of Mid-America Technology Center. “Our staff doesn’t just participate in CareerTech — they help lead it.
“Their commitment to professional growth and statewide leadership strengthens our programs, and creates new opportunities for our students.”
A MATC spokesperson said, “As Mid-America Technology Center welcomes students back to campus, the district looks forward to putting that leadership, innovation, and collaboration into action for the benefit of every student it serves.”
Welding Instructor Larry Tuck received the Outstanding New Professional Award, recognizing educators making an impact early in their CareerTech careers. • photo provided
