In a lively atmosphere filled with camaraderie and a touch of humor, the Oklahoma CareerTech State Board convened on April 17, 2025, to discuss significant developments in the state's vocational education landscape. The meeting, marked by light-hearted banter, also underscored the serious impact of CareerTech programs on the future of Oklahoma's youth.

As the meeting progressed, board members reflected on a remarkable week for Oklahoma CareerTech, highlighted by the recent appointments of several Oklahomans to key positions within the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Notably, Riley Pageant, a former state FFA president, was appointed as chief of staff for trade and foreign agriculture affairs. His appointment, along with others like Ricky Schroeder and Allison Slagle, showcased the success of Oklahoma's youth programs, which are designed to cultivate leadership and expertise in agriculture and related fields.

The board's discussions also touched on the recognition of these achievements at the state level. Governor Kevin Stitt acknowledged the importance of CareerTech during his remarks about the new Supreme Court Justice, Travis Jett, who is also a product of the CareerTech system. This acknowledgment highlights the vital role that vocational education plays in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to these significant updates, the meeting featured a light-hearted moment as board member Mike proposed a humorous "hazing" process for a colleague, which included bringing doughnuts and sitting with his back to the crowd for future meetings. This playful exchange served to foster a sense of community among the members, reminding everyone that while the work is serious, the relationships built through these programs are equally important.

As the meeting concluded, the board members expressed gratitude to the superintendents and school leaders who attended, emphasizing the collaborative effort required to advance CareerTech initiatives in Oklahoma. With a renewed sense of purpose, the board left the meeting inspired by the achievements of their students and the promising future of vocational education in the state.