If you have ever considered a technical career, you probably know what a VoTech is. A VoTech is a vocational college dedicated to service careers like welding, nursing, designing, and other trades. VoTechs are generally a 1 to 2 year course where you learn a specific trade and then test for certification.
Before you can be a mechanic, an electrician, or an HVAC technician, you have to pass an industry-standard test, and VoTech takes the time to teach you everything you will need to know to pass these tests. Additionally, if you have hobbies that you want to dive into, like working on cars, designing, or wiring, VoTech will give you all of the fundamentals you need to diversify your skills. So even if your end goal is not the certification, VoTech can help your skills flourish and grow! Technical schools are all about career readiness. So if you are reaching the end of your university career, and want more experience under your belt before joining the workforce, VoTech is a great option. You will meet so many like-minded people who enjoy the same things as you, meaning your network can double and you can sweet talk your way to your next big break.
I called Western Tech (WTC) at Burns Flat, the Votech local to Weatherford and surrounding areas, to find out some more information. College students can attend WTC as either a full-time (1 year) or part-time student (2 years). Full-time enrollment will have you on campus Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 3:00 pm and part-time will keep you busy Monday through Friday from 7:30 am-11:15 am or 12:40 pm-3:00 pm.
Before you enroll, you have to take assessments to help find the program that is a perfect fit for you. Western Tech has 25 full-time programs, ranging from cosmetology to dental hygiene to diesel technology. They also have a couple of short-term programs to choose from, like learning how to drive a truck for your CDL license or learning the essentials of firefighting. However, you will have to pay out of pocket for their short-term programs.
As for price, WTC costs $2.50 per clock hour for in-district tuition and $5.00 for out-of-district. If you receive Oklahoma’s Promise I have good news for you, they will cover your tuition here at SWOSU and at WTC simultaneously. Combining university education with vocational classes can provide you with a well-rounded education and enhance prospects in the job market. You will have a heavy course load between VoTech and college, but as my grandpa always says “Work hard now so you won’t have to in the future”.
Expand your education, experience, skills, and connections at Western Technology Center! Enrollment opened on April 1st and slots fill up fast, so if you’re interested- be sure to check out the WTC website at https://www.westtech.edu!
GO DAWGS!
