The CareerTech State Board Meeting on June 19, 2025, highlighted a pressing issue: the growing waiting list for career and technical education programs in Oklahoma. Board members reported an increase in demand, with the waiting list swelling back to over 7,500 students, despite efforts to expand capacity.

During the meeting, it was noted that while 3,000 additional students were added to programs, interest continued to surge, indicating a persistent gap between available spots and student demand. "We may need to put emphasis in other programs," one board member stated, emphasizing the need to assess which fields require more resources, particularly in high-demand areas like nursing and skilled trades.

The board also discussed the challenges of attracting and retaining qualified staff, particularly in light of competitive salaries offered to classroom teachers. "It's hard for you to compete when you don't pay as much," a member remarked, underscoring the need for a strategic approach to staffing that aligns with field demands.

In response to these challenges, the board plans to engage with state legislators to advocate for increased funding. "We need to be proactive about saying the reason we are [at 7,500] is because there's more people wanting in," one member urged, highlighting the importance of communicating the growth and needs of the system effectively.

As the board prepares for future meetings, they aim to refine their understanding of the waiting list dynamics, distinguishing between students who genuinely qualify and those who may not meet academic requirements. This data will be crucial in shaping future program offerings and ensuring that Oklahoma's CareerTech system continues to meet the needs of its students and the workforce.