“Over the past year, we have expanded programs to meet the increasing student demand. As a result, we have approximately 500 more enrollments for 2025-26 as we did last year.” - Dr. Michelle Keylon, Superintendent and CEO
Dr. Michelle Keylon, Superintendent and CEO of Francis Tuttle Technology Center, has been honored with the Oklahoma Association for Career and Technology Education (OkACTE) Arch Alexander Award, a recognition reserved for innovative leaders who are shaping the future of career and technology education in Oklahoma.
The award highlights individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of CareerTech programs and curriculum across the state. For Dr. Keylon, receiving this recognition at the OkACTE Summit Conference in Tulsa came as an unexpected honor.
“Receiving this award was an unexpected and overwhelming experience,” Keylon said. “I am honored to have received such a prestigious award, and I’m also honored to work at Francis Tuttle with such a passionate group of people that are focused on innovation to support student access to career and technology education.”
Under her leadership, Francis Tuttle has significantly expanded access to programs that align with Oklahoma’s workforce needs. New or enhanced offerings include welding, manufacturing, aerospace, healthcare, cosmetology, culinary arts, and business marketing.
This year, combined enrollment in Francis Tuttle’s Career Training Programs—courses designed to equip students with job-ready skills and industry certifications—has surpassed 4,000. These programs are offered during the day and evening across all four Francis Tuttle campuses, as well as through partnerships with area high schools and middle schools.
“Over the past year, we have expanded programs to meet the increasing student demand,” Dr. Keylon said. “As a result, we have approximately 500 more enrollments for 2025-26 as we did last year.”
To meet this demand, two new buildings are under construction at the Rockwell Campus, and renovations across multiple locations are creating additional seats for students seeking career-focused education. These improvements will enable Francis Tuttle to accommodate more students and provide access to programs critical for Oklahoma’s growing industries, such as Advanced Manufacturing and Machining.
By preparing students for in-demand careers, Francis Tuttle plays a vital role in supplying the Oklahoma City metro with a highly skilled workforce and driving economic growth. Through strong partnerships with business and industry, graduates are equipped with the expertise employers need, fostering a stronger economy and a more competitive future for Oklahoma.