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Workforce Development

Our Mission

The OKCPS Workforce Development Department exists to help every student connect their high school experience to a meaningful future. Grounded in the district’s vision that all students graduate ready to fulfill their unique purpose in a healthy, vibrant community, the department ensures every graduate leaves with a clear plan to be employed, enrolled, or enlisted—the OKCPS 3 Es. 

A circular logo with a gear-like border in the background contains the large white letter %22E%22 in the foreground, with %22THE THREE%22 written in an arc above it and %22S%22 to the right of the %22E%22, all on a teal background.

This mission is fueled by strong partnerships with business and industry, community leaders, and postsecondary institutions. These partners provide essential real‑world exposure through guest speaking, career panels, mock interviews, résumé reviews, project mentoring, and internships—giving students a firsthand look at the skills, habits, and environments that shape today’s workforce.

Aligned with Oklahoma’s 2030 graduation requirements, the district and partners have built a comprehensive system of career pathways connected to each student’s Individual Career and Academic Plan (ICAP). These pathways empower students to explore their interests, develop relevant skills, and make informed decisions about their futures.

In August 2026, OKCPS will open six College & Career Centers, funded through the 2022 Bond Initiative. These centers will offer high‑demand pathways, each designed to prepare students for thriving careers in Oklahoma City and beyond.

College and Career Pathways (English) College and Career Pathways (Spanish) 

Together, these pathways reflect the community’s deep commitment to preparing OKCPS students for bright, purpose‑driven futures. The Workforce Development Department serves as the bridge between education and opportunity—ensuring every student can see what’s possible and take confident steps toward achieving it.

College & Career Newsletter

July 2026
June 2026
April 2026
February 2026

Partner Interest Form

Oklahoma City Public Schools is building powerful, future-ready pathways that connect students to high-skill, high-need careers across our community. We invite industry and community professionals to engage with students through career exploration, work-based learning, and advisory leadership. 

Thank you for your interest in supporting OKCPS students. Please complete the form  to let us know how you'd like to get involved. 

Industry Professional Interest Form

Students at Capitol Hill Middle school build an airplane as part of Boeing's Dream Learner Program. This experience exposes students the the opportunities in engineering and aviation as they make decisions on the pathway they select in high school this fall.
A student at US Grant demonstrates CPR skills as part of a worksite tour at SSM Health. Students were able to hear from various healthcare professionals, learn about skills needed and opportunities available when they graduate high school.
As part of the pilot program, Future Forward Seniors with OU Health, students meet with OU Health HR volunteers to develop resumes and practice interview skills. Pictured is a class of 2026 student from Southeast High School.
Leaders from healthcare and biotechnology organizations met to learn about the new Biotechnology pathways and the new Healthcare Pathways launching this fall in partnership with Metro Tech.
Teachers Mrs. Price and Mr. Hardy joined Dr. Polk and district leaders for a Teacher Talk and Tour of Alias Cybersecurity in preparation of the pathway launch at US Grant and Capitol Hill High Schools.
A group of people stand in a room with a checkered floor, while a table with safety vests is in the foreground.
Two young women shake hands over a table in the foreground, while in the background, other students and a teacher are visible in a library setting.
A young boy in a red hoodie holds a project with names written on it, while other students stand in the background of a hallway.
A group of young students gather around a toolbox with a woman in a safety vest, while in the background, other people are visible in a classroom setting.
Thank you to the Following partners for their commitment to OKCPS Workforce Initiatives!
JMH Consulting Logo
Jobs for America's Graduates Oklahoma Logo
Mercy Logo
Red text reading AOGC above a horizontal line. Below the line is red text reading Association of Oklahoma General Contractors
Oklahoma City Black Chamber of Commerce Logo
Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics Logo
STAAR (Services that Assist and Redeem) Foundation Logo
Independent Electrical Contractors OKC Logo

Meet the Team

A smiling woman with blonde hair and glasses in the foreground is set against a dark, textured background.
Kate Haydon, Executive Director

Phone: 405-587-0222

Kate on LinkedIn

A smiling woman in a suit stands with her arms crossed in front of framed artwork and a teal wall.

Mary Thomas, Director
methomas@okcps.org
Phone: 405-587-4373