Students from Green Country Technology Center’s Medical Assisting and Practical Nursing (LPN) programs recently represented the district at HSE Day at the capitol in Oklahoma City. Joining peers from across the state, they highlighted the importance of healthcare education and workforce preparation.

During the visit, GCTC students met with State Representative Scott Fetgatter (District 16). The conversation focused on workforce development, expanding healthcare training opportunities and the vital role CareerTech programs play in strengthening local communities.

“Experiences like HSE Day at the Capitol give our students a voice in shaping the future of healthcare in Oklahoma,” said Anthony Nieto, Marketing & Communications Coordinator at GCTC. “When legislators hear directly from students who are preparing to enter the workforce, it reinforces the real impact CareerTech programs have on communities across our state.”

Students shared firsthand experiences from their classroom and clinical training, emphasizing how handson instruction, industry certifications, and real-world preparation equip them to enter the healthcare workforce with confidence. Discussions also highlighted the growing demand for skilled healthcare professionals in rural and regional areas, and how technology center programs help meet that need.

HSE Day at the Capitol provides students the opportunity to advocate for hands-on education, engage directly with state leaders, and better understand how policy decisions impact workforce development and healthcare access. For many, the experience reinforced the value of collaboration between educators, industry and lawmakers.

Green Country Technology Center remains committed to developing a skilled healthcare workforce by preparing students for success not only in the classroom, but in service to their communities.

For more information about GCTC’s Health Science programs, visit www.gctcok.edu.