PRYOR, Okla. (OBV) – Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, MidAmerica Industrial Park and Northeast Tech are partnering to enhance workforce development across Oklahoma.
The three entities signed a memorandum of understanding, agreeing to launch the Electrical and Electronics Technology Program.
MidAmerica officials described the Electrical and Electronics Technology Program as a groundbreaking initiative that will address the growing demand for skilled workers across several industries.
“At MidAmerica, we are committed to long-term investments in workforce development to support more than 80 employers in advanced manufacturing and more,” said MidAmerica’s CEO David Stewart. “What sets this initiative apart is its innovative model—a collaborative partnership between business, career and technical education, and higher education. This integrated approach not only enhances the quality of training but also broadens access by leveraging the 13th Year Scholarship and other funding opportunities to remove barriers for students.”
MidAmerica partnered with Northeast Tech and OSU Institute of Technology (OSUIT) to create a workforce training program aligned with industry needs. MidAmerica supports the effort by investing in facilities, equipment and personnel so that students receive hands-on learning opportunities that help local businesses, MidAmerica officials said.
“This partnership is a game-changer for Oklahoma’s workforce,” said Scott Fry, MidAmerica’s director of workforce development. “By aligning education with industry needs, we are ensuring students receive the training necessary to succeed in high-demand careers while supporting economic growth in the region.”
The program had a trial run during the fall 2024 semester. Students and local industry partners showed a strong interest in electrical engineering technology training, resulting in two cohorts of students enrolling for the fall 2025 semester.
Northeast Tech provides proactive technical instruction and industry-recognized certifications that give students the practical skills they will need to enter the workforce
“Northeast Tech is proud to be part of this collaborative effort to expand workforce training opportunities in the region,” said Derek Beller, deputy superintendent, Northeast Tech. “This program is designed to be accessible to both high school graduates and working professionals who want to enhance their skills and advance their careers.”
OSUIT offers stackable credentials, giving students multiple paths into the workforce, helping them advance their careers and achieve long-term success. OSUIT uses the State Regents for Higher Education’s UpskillOK portal to provide micro-credentials that are approved by the state regents and tailored to meet industry demands.
The micro-credentials provide focused, hands-on education in specific skills and competencies. OSUIT’s credentialing pathway equips students with marketable skills and competencies that meet evolving workforce needs.
“At OSUIT, our mission is to provide workforce-aligned education that meets the needs of employers,” said Dr. Ronna Vanderslice, vice-provost for academic affairs, OSU-System and provost for OSU’s Polytech programs. “This initiative represents a unique collaboration between higher education, career tech and economic development leaders that will create meaningful opportunities for students and businesses alike.”
The Electrical and Electronics Technology Program’s three levels of micro-credentials cover a range of topics, including industrial electrical systems, electric motor controls, PLC fundamentals and instrumentation applications. Funding opportunities are available through the Northeast Tech 13th Year Scholarship and other workforce training initiatives.
Located in Pryor, Okla., MidAmerica is the third largest industrial park in the United States. It is owned and operated by a self-sustaining public trust, and works to increase area employment by bringing new businesses to the region and by helping grow existing businesses.
MidAmerica’s demand for skilled workers is especially high, 1.5 times the national average because of the large presence of manufacturing, energy and data sectors. This widespread need makes the occupation a critical pillar of workforce development in the region.
The industrial park efforts to strategize and innovate workforce development in Oklahoma include the following:
- Established the Northeast Tech Business and Industry Services facility;
- Built on-site facilities for OSUIT and Rogers State University;
- Launched the STEM Lab initiative in area school districts to help facilitate the development of a workforce pipeline; and
- Worked to establish a strategic framework for the state, including the Centers for Workforce Excellence.
David Moore, local plant manager of Berry Global at MidAmerica, said there’s a growing demand for skilled workers. He said the program will play a critical role in filling workforce gaps.
“Taking classes at OSU Institute of Technology gave me the technical knowledge I needed to complement my hands-on experience,” Moore said. “That training helped me advance my skills quickly and prepared me for each step in my career—from technician to plant manager.”
