Mid-America Technology Center welcomed Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction Lindel Fields as the featured guest for its annual back-to-school kickoff.

Fields addressed faculty and staff as they prepared for the start of a new academic year.

The event also featured Skye McNiel, Executive Director of the Oklahoma Association of Career and Technology Education (OkACTE), who provided a legislative update on issues affecting CareerTech education.

Fields, who was appointed Oklahoma's State Superintendent of Public Instruction in 2025, has spent more than 30 years serving Oklahoma students and educators.

Prior to his appointment, he served as Superintendent and CEO of Tri County Technology Center, where he helped advance workforce development, educational innovation, and student success through CareerTech education.

“We were honored to welcome Superintendent Fields and Skye McNiel to Mid-America,” MATC Superinetendent  Mike Eubank confirmed.

“Their commitment to education and workforce development aligns closely with our mission of preparing students for successful careers and strengthening Oklahoma’s workforce.”

Fields emphasized the important role educators play in developing Oklahoma’s future workforce and the continued partnership between CareerTech and public education.

His message encouraged staff as they prepared to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in an ever-changing workforce.

McNiel also addressed faculty and staff, providing an update on legislative and policy issues affecting CareerTech across Oklahoma.

As part of her presentation, she discussed State Questions 844 and 847 and concerns surrounding their potential impact on local control, including issues affecting CareerTech education and other locally supported services.

McNiel's presentation highlighted the importance of understanding how statewide policy decisions can affect local communities and the institutions that serve them.

The update provided Mid-America employees with additional context on issues that could negatively impact local control and influence CareerTech education, funding and decision-making at the local level.

Mid-America Technology Center appreciates Fields and McNiel for taking part in the back-to-school kickoff and helping faculty and staff begin the year informed, encouraged and focused on serving students, businesses and communities.