Tri County Tech

Tri County Tech Names 2025 Students of the Year

kacifouts — Thu, 22 May 2025 17:50:52 +0000

Ryan Cuevas and Chloe Robbins Named Tri County Tech 2024-2025 Students of the Year

Tri County Tech is proud to recognize Ryan Cuevas and Chloe Robbins as the 2025 Students of the Year, celebrating their outstanding achievements, leadership, and embodiment of the Tri County Way.

Ryan Cuevas | Adult Winner
Ryan is a student in the Precision Machining Operations program at Tri County Tech. He chose this program because of the employment opportunities after graduating. His favorite part of the program was learning how to make pieces out of metal.

In addition to his academic pursuits, Ryan is the former President of the men’s Oxford House in Bartlesville. He is also actively involved with The Other Side Group– Narcotics Anonymous, where he helps organize events that celebrate recovery.

“Ryan knows what he wants to get out of the PMO program and has plans for his future. He is extremely respectful and always helps the younger students. Ryan has near-perfect attendance and good grades. Ryan represents Tri County Tech’s values of Honor, Excellent, Authentic, Principled, and Fiery, perfectly.”

James Cowart, Precision Machining Operations Instructor at Tri County Tech

Ryan now works at Grand Mental Health, where he supports individuals facing personal challenges. He says the experience has been both meaningful and rewarding.

Chloe Robbins | �� Winner
Chloe is a student in the Medicine and Biosciences program at Tri County Tech and a senior at Bartlesville ��. She chose this program because she loved the idea of hands-on learning. Her favorite part about the program was her internship at Ascension St. John Jane Phillips Medical Center.

In addition to her academic pursuits, Chloe has participated in HOSA, NHS, Interact, NTHS, and softball. She actively participates in community service and has even helped organize community service events for Interact.

“Chloe is a confident and determined student with a great positive attitude. She works diligently on her assignments. She is motivated and willingly accepts challenges. Chloe is also a star athlete on the Bartlesville �� softball team.”

Dr. Shelly Holdman, Medicine and Biosciences Instructor at Tri County Tech

Chloe said her mom has inspired her most in life. She shared that seeing her be strong and independent has led Chloe to be strong and independent herself. After graduation, Chloe plans to continue her education at �� State University to pursue a career as a registered nurse.

Congratulations to Ryan, Chloe, and all our students of the month and graduating class. Thank you for another incredible year at Tri County Tech!

About Tri County Tech

We’re one of ��’s first CareerTech schools and have a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development since 1967. Our devotion to each other, our students, and the life-changing learning we provide fuels our pursuit of excellence. We call this the “Tri County Way.” We have locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��. Tri County Tech is part of the �� CareerTech system, which offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts and operates on 59 campuses across the state. CareerTech plays a vital role in developing a world-class workforce for �� employers and prepares ��ns to succeed in the workplace, in education, and life.

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Tri County Tech Receives National Recognition from Project Lead the Way

kacifouts — Mon, 12 May 2025 16:13:04 +0000

May 12, 2025 – Bartlesville, OK

Tri County Tech announced today that it has been recognized as a 2024-25 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) Distinguished School. It is one of just a few hundred schools across the U.S. to receive this honor for providing broad access to transformative learning experiences for students through PLTW Computer Science, Biomedical Science, and Engineering. is a national nonprofit organization that serves millions of PreK-12 students and teachers in over 12,200 schools across the U.S., aiming to make every student in every grade STEM successful.

“At Tri County Tech, innovation is more than a buzzword — it’s part of who we are. Our educators continually drive transformative learning experiences,” said Tri County Tech Superintendent & CEO, Dr. Tammie Strobel. “I’m incredibly proud of the dedication and creativity our instructors bring to our STEM-related programs.”

The PLTW Distinguished School recognition honors schools committed to increasing student access, engagement, and achievement in their PLTW programs. To be eligible for the designation, Tri County Tech had to meet multiple criteria in the 2024-25 school year, such as the number of PLTW courses available to students, percent of students enrolled in PLTW, percentage of students taking more than one PLTW course, and efforts to ensure equitable access to PLTW courses.

“We are proud to honor Tri County Tech for their commitment to providing students with exceptional educational experiences through PLTW programs,” said Dr. David Dimmett, PLTW President and CEO. “This achievement celebrates their dedication to student achievement and their focus on empowering students with the knowledge and skills necessary for success in school and a wide range of post-secondary opportunities.”

PLTW high school programs prepare today’s students for the careers of tomorrow by not only incorporating STEM skills into their learning but also building students’ collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills so they can be ready for whatever path they take.

Tri County Tech is part of a community of PreK-12 schools, colleges and universities, and corporate and philanthropic partners across the country united around a passion for providing students with inspiring, engaging, and empowering learning opportunities. For more information about PLTW’s recognition program, visit .

About Tri County Tech

We’re one of ��’s first CareerTech schools and have a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement. Our devotion to each other, students, and the life-changing learning we provide fuels our pursuit of excellence. We call this the “Tri County Way.” We have locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��.

The �� Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide system of career and technology education. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts and operates on 59 campuses across the state. CareerTech plays a vital role in developing a world-class workforce for �� employers and prepares ��ns to succeed in the workplace, in education, and in life.

The agency is governed by the State Board of Career and Technology Education. It works closely with the State Department of Education and the State Regents for Higher Education to provide a seamless educational system for all ��ns.

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Tri County Tech’s Kebi Allen Honored as ACTE® Region IV Postsecondary Professional of the Year

kacifouts — Fri, 25 Apr 2025 14:15:38 +0000

Kebi Allen, TCT Practical Nursing Instructor, Named Postsecondary Professional of the Year

The Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) has recognized Kebi Allen, Practical Nursing Instructor at Tri County Tech in Bartlesville, ��, as the 2025 Postsecondary Professional of the Year. This prestigious award honors outstanding Career and Technical Education (CTE) educators who have demonstrated exceptional innovation in their classrooms, a deep commitment to their students, and a strong dedication to advancing CTE in their schools and communities.

“I am honored and humbled to receive the Region IV Postsecondary Professional of the Year award from ACTE. Each day, I am grateful for the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the lives of my students. Supporting their growth into confident, compassionate healthcare professionals is the most rewarding aspect of my work. It is a true privilege to contribute to their journey and help shape the future of healthcare through nursing education.”

Kebi Allen, Tri County Tech Practical Nursing Instructor

Kebi Allen has been a Registered Nurse for 13 years. She has served in nursing education for the last 11 years. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing, with an emphasis on Nursing Education and advanced certification as a Certified Nurse Educator through the National League for Nursing.

As an educator in career and technical education (CTE), Kebi has significantly contributed to the nursing profession through her innovative teaching methodologies, commitment to student success, and leadership in curriculum development. Her goal is to equip her students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to pursue a career in nursing and positively impact the lives of future patients.

“Kebi Allen’s recognition as the ACTE Region IV Postsecondary Professional of the Year is a testament to her incredible impact she has made on our students, fellow educators, community, and the nursing profession. Her creativity, compassion, and unwavering dedication are at the heart of what makes Tri County Tech truly exceptional. We are incredibly proud to celebrate her well-deserved recognition.”

Dr. Tammie Strobel, Tri County Tech Superintendent & CEO

Tri County Tech is driven by a vision to inspire success through life-changing learning experiences and a mission to provide superior training. TCT educators are guided by the core values—Authentic, Fiery, Honor, Principled, and Excellent—which drive their commitment to student success across Washington, Osage, and Nowata counties. These values are the foundation of how the organization serves and supports its community.

Find out more about Tri County Tech visit TriCountyTech.edu

About �� CareerTech

is often used as a model for programs across the United States and around the world. The �� Department of Career and Technology Education provides leadership and resources and assures standards of excellence for a comprehensive statewide career and technology education system. The system offers programs and services in 29 technology center districts operating on 60 campuses, 391 PK-12 school districts, 17 Skills Centers campuses, including three juvenile facilities, and 32 Adult Education and Family Literacy service providers.

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Tri County Tech Foundation to Receive $10K from Arvest Foundation

kacifouts — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 15:36:34 +0000

Donation Will Support Adult Scholarships at Tri County Tech

The Arvest Foundation recently announced a $10,000 donation to the Tri County Tech Foundation to support scholarships for young adults in the area.

Arvest Bank local president David Nickel and Arvest Wealth Management trust officer Eric Cook presented the check to Kim Smith, Chief Administrative Officer & Tri County Tech Foundation Executive Director, and Champagne Kane, Foundation Coordinator.

The mission of the Tri County Tech Foundation is to remove barriers to success for all Tri County Tech students, ensuring all students have access to quality training today for a skilled tomorrow. The gift from the Arvest Foundation will contribute toward this goal and students’ pursuits of obtaining a technical degree.

“It is an honor to present this check on behalf of the Arvest Foundation to help students achieve their educational aspirations,” said Nickel.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Arvest Foundation for their generous support,” Kane said. “This scholarship will make a real difference for students, helping them get the training they need to succeed and become the workforce leaders of the future.”

*Article Credit: and

About The Arvest Foundation:
The Arvest Foundation seeks to provide funding to grantees who are actively working to create positive change for others. Major areas of focus include: K-12 education, economic development, and enhancing the quality of life throughout the Arvest footprint. Learn more at .

About The Tri County Tech Foundation:
The Tri County Tech Foundation was established in 1969 to support students at Tri County Tech. Tri County Tech is ��’s first CareerTech district with a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development. Tri County Tech has locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��. Foundation assistance is available to qualifying students in three critical areas: Tuition Assistance, Emergency Aid, and Food Assistance.

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Bison Bots Shine at Green Country FIRST Robotics Regional

kacifouts — Wed, 26 Mar 2025 20:13:38 +0000

Tri County Tech FIRST Robotics Team 2165 Wins Award at Regional Event

The Tri County Tech FIRST Robotics Team 2165, better known as The Bison Bots, made a lasting impression at the Green Country FIRST Robotics Regional this past weekend. Competing against 42 teams, The Bison Bots finished the qualification matches in 23rd place and were selected by the Number 6 alliance to compete in the finals.

The alliance won their first match, but despite a strong effort, an unfortunate mechanical issue with one of its robots impacted their subsequent performances, leading to elimination. However, The Bison Bots had much to celebrate. With just three dedicated team members, their robot performed flawlessly throughout the competition, and their perseverance and ingenuity earned them the prestigious Judges’ Award.

During the award ceremony, the judges remarked: “Though this herd is small, their efforts and their robot left a mighty impression across the field. They used their team’s innovation to create new ways to corral falling algae. They gained points by adjusting their design to increase the scope of their robot and took their areas of opportunity by the horns using Microsoft Power BI. They used their knowledge of pneumatics to roll up algae like tumbleweeds, stampeding through the competition. Congratulations to Team 2165, The Bison Bots!”

Under the guidance of their dedicated mentors—Mr. George Halkiades, Mr. Joshua Stewart, and Mr. Kendall Baker—the team worked together for months to build and refine their 120 lb robot from scratch. The students plan, design, construct, and program their robot to tackle challenges like soccer, basketball, frisbee, tennis, and more. FIRST Robotics competitions allow students to develop real-world engineering skills and pave the way for STEM careers.

Tri County Tech congratulates Yasmina Bruton, Jadon Walton, and Colbie Woods for their dedication and outstanding performance. Their hard work and teamwork exemplify the true spirit of FIRST Robotics! Students interested in STEM careers won’t want to miss joining the Tri County Tech Robotics Team. They’ll learn first-hand about science, math, engineering, and technology while getting hands-on experience and working as a team to resolve problems.

For more information about FIRST Robotics, visit .

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Tri County Tech Foundation Receives Jane Phillips Society Donation

kacifouts — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 18:53:40 +0000

Tri County Tech Foundation Receives Generous Donation from Jane Phillips Society to Support Students in Need

The Tri County Tech Foundation is pleased to announce a generous donation from the Jane Phillips Society, which will directly benefit students facing unexpected challenges. This contribution reflects a shared commitment to empowering students and helping them stay focused on their educational goals.

The funds will be used to provide essential support such as groceries, fuel, dental care, and eyeglasses for students who might otherwise struggle to continue their education. By easing these burdens, the Jane Phillips Society is helping to ensure that students can overcome obstacles and complete their education.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Jane Phillips Society for their support,” said Champagne Kane, Foundation Coordinator for Tri County Tech. “Their generosity not only provides financial assistance but also serves as a beacon of hope for our students. This partnership reaffirms our belief that, together, we can build a brighter future for our community.”

The Tri County Tech Foundation remains dedicated to making high-quality education accessible to all students, regardless of financial circumstances. Support from partners like the Jane Phillips Society is vital to sustaining these efforts.

For more information about the Tri County Tech Foundation or how to support its mission, please visit tricountytech.edu/Foundation/Giving or contact us at Foundation@TriCountyTech.edu.

About The Tri County Tech Foundation: The Tri County Tech Foundation was established in 1969 to support students at Tri County Tech. Tri County Tech is ��’s first CareerTech district with a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development. Tri County Tech has locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��. Foundation assistance is available to qualifying students in three critical areas: Tuition Assistance, Emergency Aid, and Food Assistance.

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John G. and Georgalee Sawyer Scholarship Fund

kacifouts — Mon, 03 Mar 2025 19:47:42 +0000

Tri County Tech Foundation announces the establishment of the John G. and Georgalee Sawyer Scholarship Fund

The Tri County Tech Foundation is excited to announce the creation of the John G. and Georgalee Sawyer Scholarship Fund, which will leave a lasting impact on students for generations to come.

John Gordan Sawyer, a civil engineer, and U.S. military veteran passed away on June 1, 2022, at the age of 92. His wife, Georgalee Sawyer, who passed away on April 16, 2024, just shy of her 100th birthday, was deeply involved in the community. Both John and Georgalee lived in Bartlesville, where they dedicated their careers to Phillips Petroleum.

In recognition of their lifelong commitment to education and service, the Sawyers designated the Tri County Tech Foundation as a beneficiary of their trusts. A portion of their estate will support capital improvements, while the John G. and Georgalee Sawyer Scholarship will be awarded annually in perpetuity, providing financial support to Tri County Tech students pursuing their dreams.

Planned gifts, such as bequests in a will, are one of the simplest ways to leave a lasting legacy. By specifying a set amount or percentage of an estate, donors can reduce their taxable estate, potentially increasing the funds available for loved ones and ensuring their legacy lives on. Gifts like the John G. and Georgalee Sawyer Scholarship are essential to the Foundation’s growth and sustainability, helping provide high-quality education for the leaders of tomorrow.

For more information on planned giving or contributing to the Tri County Tech Foundation, please visit tricountytech.edu/legacy or contact us at Foundation@TriCountyTech.edu or 918.331.3214.

About The Tri County Tech Foundation: The Tri County Tech Foundation was established in 1969 to support students at Tri County Tech. Tri County Tech is ��’s first CareerTech district with a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development. Tri County Tech has locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��. Foundation assistance is available to qualifying students in three critical areas: Tuition Assistance, Emergency Aid, and Food Assistance.

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Truity Credit Union Continues Support of Tri County Tech Foundation

kacifouts — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 19:57:52 +0000

Tri County Tech Foundation Receives $4,200 Through Truity Credit Union’s Spirit Debit Card Program

Truity Credit Union’s program continues to make a meaningful difference in supporting education and creating opportunity. A recent disbursement of $4,200 to the Tri County Tech Foundation helps empower Tri County Tech students in Washington, Osage, and Nowata counties by providing essential support for their educational journey.

Every purchase made with your Tri County Tech debit card raises money without costing you a dime. Since 2010, Truity Credit Union has contributed approximately $21,600 to Tri County Tech through the use of spirit cards, providing essential support for tuition assistance, emergency aid, and food security programs that help students achieve their career goals.

“Truity Credit Union’s continued support through the Spirit card program reflects the power of partnership and community generosity. Every time someone uses their Tri County Tech Spirit card, they’re directly contributing to the success of our students and the strength of our local workforce. This $4,200 donation truly shows the power of coming together.”

Champagne Kane, Foundation Coordinator at Tri County Tech

The Tri County Tech Foundation encourages community members to join the Spirit card program, a meaningful opportunity to directly impact the lives of Tri County Tech students. Your support helps empower students with the education and skills they need to succeed in high-demand careers, creating brighter futures and building a stronger community.

To learn more about how you can support the Tri County Tech Foundation, visit TriCountyTech.edu/giving or contact us at Foundation@TriCountyTech.edu or 918.331.3214. You can also sign up for the and start supporting students today.

Pictured Left to Right: Kim Smith, Tri County Tech Chief Administrative Officer & Foundation Executive Director; Champagne Kane, Tri County Tech Foundation Coordinator; Aaron Beldner, Truity Credit Union President & CEO; and Sara Freeman, Truity Credit Union VP Business Development.

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Tri County Tech Announces 2024 Recipients of Continuing Education Scholarship

kacifouts — Fri, 20 Dec 2024 18:18:51 +0000

Practical Nursing Students Named Recipients of Prestigious Scholarship

Tri County Tech is proud to announce the 2024 recipients of the prestigious PEO (Philanthropic Educational Organization) Program for Continuing Education (PCE) scholarship: Shelby Sturgeon and Angela Wooten, both students in TCT’s Practical Nursing program.

Shelby and Angela were nominated for this opportunity by their instructor and selected through a rigorous application process that is submitted to PEO International for approval. The PCE scholarship is awarded to women working to complete a degree or certification that will improve or enhance their skills, helping them secure meaningful employment. The scholarship is open to students in a wide range of fields of study, though careers in the medical field—particularly nursing—remain among the most popular choices for applicants.

“I am so grateful for this scholarship. I’m one step closer to my dream of becoming a nurse and building a better future for my children. Thank you!”

Angela Wooten, Practical Nursing student at Tri County Tech

Since its inception, the scholarship has helped countless women nationwide pursue their academic and professional goals. Tri County Tech has been a proud partner in this initiative, with 63 women from its Practical Nursing program receiving the PCE scholarship since 1999. Take Kathryn, a recent graduate of the school’s eleven-month Practical Nursing program. Kathryn, a single mother of three, came to Tri County Tech with a $13,000 debt from a private technical college and a low-paying pharmacy tech job. “I came from poverty and was going to be stuck there,” she shared.

Kathryn was able to graduate debt-free and is now a Licensed Practical Nurse, earning $48,000 a year. Kathryn’s success story highlights the transformative power of education, showing how support for women in vocational careers—like nursing—can break cycles of poverty and uplift entire communities. In total, PEO has contributed a total of $135,951 to support nursing students at Tri County Tech.

“The students who graduate from Tri County Tech are more than just nurses—they are pillars of the healthcare system, and all feel their impact. As we reflect on our program’s journey and our students’ achievements, we are excited for the future. The need for compassionate, skilled healthcare providers continues to grow, and we remain committed to training the next generation of nurses who will carry forward our legacy of excellence.”

Tara Gotwalt, Chief Instructional Officer at Tri County Tech

Tri County Tech has a long history of producing skilled healthcare professionals. Established in 1967, the school’s Practical Nursing program has graduated over 1,000 students, many of whom now serve their communities by working in clinics, hospitals, doctor’s offices, and care facilities across the region. The PEO scholarship is integral in helping these students achieve their goals and reach their full potential.

Based in Bartlesville, Tri County Tech serves students from Washington, Osage, and Nowata counties. Find out more about Tri County Tech’s Practical Nursing program.

About Philanthropic Educational Organization: The PEO Sisterhood is a nonprofit organization that has helped more than 125,000* women pursue educational goals by providing more than $432 million* in educational assistance, making a difference in women’s lives through six philanthropies and a foundation. PEO was founded on January 21, 1869, by seven students at Iowa Wesleyan College in Mount Pleasant, Iowa. This circle of kindred spirits, bonded by friendship and their enthusiasm for educational opportunities for women, eventually expanded to include women off-campus as well. Through membership, the PEO Sisterhood has brought together more than half a million women in the United States and Canada who are passionate about helping women advance through education.

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Bartlesville Rotary Club Awards $1,000 Grant to Tri County Tech’s FIRST Robotics Team 2165

kacifouts — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 20:44:56 +0000

Bartlesville Rotary Club Continues Commitment to Tri County Tech

The Bartlesville Rotary Club has awarded a $1,000 grant to Tri County Tech’s FIRST Robotics Team 2165, supporting the team’s innovative approach to inspiring students in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).

FIRST Robotics Team 2165 unites students from Bartlesville �� and Tri County Tech to tackle hands-on engineering challenges, including designing, building, and programming a competitive robot from the ground up. This transformative program equips students with technical skills, critical thinking abilities, and a collaborative mindset that prepares them for success in both education and future careers.

“Support from the Bartlesville Rotary Club makes it possible for our students to thrive in a program that not only teaches STEM skills but also instills leadership and teamwork. We’re thankful for this funding, which directly impacts their ability to innovate and compete.”

– Dr. Grover, Instructional Director at Tri County Tech

The $1,000 grant will help cover essential costs such as materials, tools, and travel expenses, ensuring that Team 2165 can participate in competitions that challenge them to push the boundaries of creativity and engineering. This contribution from the Rotary Club is a testament to the organization’s dedication to fostering educational opportunities that build stronger communities.

The partnership between the Bartlesville Rotary Club and Team 2165 highlights a shared vision of empowering young people to excel in high-demand STEM fields, contributing to the growth and success of the Bartlesville area and beyond.

Pictured with the check: Joshua Stewart, TCT Computer Repair & Networking Instructor; Dr. Dennis Grover, TCT Instructional Director; and Laura Jensen, George Halkiades, and Daniel Manning from the Bartlesville Rotary Club.

For more information about how you can support the Tri County Tech Foundation, please visit our giving page or contact us at Foundation@TriCountyTech.edu or 918.331.3214.

About The Tri County Tech Foundation: The Tri County Tech Foundation was established in 1969 to support students at Tri County Tech. Tri County Tech is ��’s first CareerTech district with a steadfast spirit for innovation and improvement – driving economic development. Tri County Tech has locations in Bartlesville, Pawhuska, and Nowata, ��. Foundation assistance is available to qualifying students in three critical areas: Tuition Assistance, Emergency Aid, and Food Assistance.

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