CareerTech Champions
Each year, thousands of Oklahomans reap the benefits provided by Career and Technology Education. CareerTech Champions tell the story of how individuals apply learning to become successful employees, entrepreneurs and leaders in business organizations.
Tiffany Kinsey – Tri County Technology Center
THEN: A high school student torn between two vastly different programs at her local technology center. Tiffany Kinsey was interested in taking both culinary arts and welding at Tri County Technology Center. She chose welding because she liked the idea of learning a little about a lot and admitted she didn’t know much about welding — at least not then.
At Tri County Tech she learned enough about welding to know she liked it, and she learned that she had a passion for the fine detail associated with it. After graduating from high school and Tri County’s welding program, she attended Spartan School of Aeronautics to learn how to X-ray welds. Three years into her career, she was bringing home a six-figure salary. Tiffany said because of Tri County Tech she
- Discovered a passion for welding.
- Learned basic welding techniques.
- Has no college debts.
- Is highly recruited in the oil and gas industry.
“The teachers are great at Tri County Tech,” Tiffany said. “They are involved in their students’ education and are true role models.”
NOW: An advanced ultrasonics technician for Element Integrity in Bartlesville, inspecting pressure valves at plants and pump stations. Tiffany is studying how infrared drones can help look for leaks. She specializes in nondestructive testing and examination.
“CareerTech students are able to get into the industry and find out what they like, what their passions are, and go to work.”
Tiffany Kinsey
Welder, Element Integrity