MidAmerica, Northeast Tech and OSUIT sign MOU to expand workforce training

Wednesday, April 2, 2025

Media Contact:
Josh Gammon | Integrated Marketing Specialist | 918-293-5034 | [email protected]

Leaders from MidAmerica Industrial Park, Northeast Tech and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology formalized a partnership to strengthen workforce development in Oklahoma through
the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Wednesday. The agreement marks the
official launch of the Electrical and Electronics Technology Program, a groundbreaking
initiative designed to address the growing demand for skilled workers which play a
critical role in supporting the smooth and efficient operations across numerous industries.

In Oklahoma, growth in this field is particularly robust, with more than 1,100 new
jobs expected over the next five years. This increase is driven by several key factors,
including an aging workforce nearing retirement and rising reliance on automation
in advanced manufacturing. The demand is especially high at MidAmerica, where it is
estimated to be 1.5 times the national average due to the strong presence of manufacturing,
energy and data sectors. This widespread need makes the occupation a critical pillar
of workforce development in the region.

MidAmerica has a long history of being strategic and innovative in workforce development.
Examples include establishing the Northeast Tech Business and Industry Services facility
at MidAmerica in the early 90s, building on-site facilities for OSUIT and Rogers State
University, and launching the STEM Lab initiative in area school districts to help
facilitate the development of a workforce pipeline. Additionally, MidAmerica has worked
to establish a strategic framework for the state, which includes the Centers for Workforce
Excellence.

“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.”

Electrical and Electronic Engineering Technologists and Technicians offers strong
earning potential. With a national median annual wage of $72,800 and an even higher
median wage of $74,940 in Oklahoma. The occupation is seeing significant demand, with
the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 9,500 national job openings annually over
the next five years.

MidAmerica Industrial Park worked in partnership with Northeast Tech and OSUIT to
establish a workforce training program aligned with industry needs. MidAmerica provides
essential support through investment in facilities, equipment and personnel, ensuring
students receive hands-on learning opportunities that directly benefit local businesses.

“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 held an initial trial during the fall 2024 semester. Strong interest from
students and local industry partners demonstrated a clear demand for training in electrical
engineering technologies, reinforcing the program’s role in addressing workforce needs.
Immediate interest resulted in two cohorts of students enrolling for the fall 2025
semester.

Northeast Tech plays a key role in delivering proactive technical instruction and
industry-recognized certifications, equipping students with the practical skills needed
for a seamless transition into 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 of
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 enhances the program by offering stackable credentials that create multiple
entry points into the workforce, giving students pathways for career advancement and
long-term success. Through the State Regents for Higher Education’s UpskillOK portal,
OSUIT provides micro-credentials that are approved by the state regents and tailored
to meet industry demands. These micro-credentials offer focused, hands-on learning
in specific skills and competencies. By incorporating this credentialing pathway,
OSUIT equips students with marketable skills and competencies that align with evolving
workforce needs, setting the program apart as a leader in career-ready education.

“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 offers three levels of micro-credentials
covering topics such as 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.

This profession cuts across virtually every major industry sector and requires technical
professionals who are not only skilled in engineering but also excel as problem solvers.
Many program graduates go on to leadership roles, making this a strong pathway for
long-term career advancement.

David Moore, local plant manager of Berry Global at MidAmerica, addressed attendees
about the growing demand for skilled workers and the critical role this program will
play 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.”

The MOU signing represents a milestone in Oklahoma’s workforce development strategy,
ensuring that students have access to high-quality education and training while supporting
employers in meeting their talent needs. Following the event, attendees were invited
to tour the facilities and learn more about the program’s offerings.