NORMAN, OK — Moore Norman Technology Center proudly participated in the 2025 AERO Oklahoma Aerospace, Aeronautics, UAS/AAM, and Defense Advocacy Day at the State Capitol earlier this month. The annual event celebrates Oklahoma’s thriving aviation and aerospace industry and served as a vital platform to highlight the state's growing demand for a skilled workforce. 

 

Oklahoma Senator Paul Rosino spoke at the event citing a 2017 study that showed the economic impact of Aviation & Aerospace in the state at approximately $44 billion. He said, “We are now the #2 industry in the state of Oklahoma. It’s big deal.” He added that an upcoming study may show an increase in Aviation & Aerospace economic impact closer to $50-55 billion. This would bring it within striking distance of the current #1 industry, oil and gas.  

 

A decade ago Senator Rosino and MNTC Board of Education Member Glen Cosper shared a vision for the role of Moore Norman Technology Center in Oklahoma’s soaring Aviation & Aerospace industry. The 2017 economic impact study reinforced the vision and when Brian Ruttman joined MNTC as superintendent/CEO in July 2019, one of his first directives was to initiate an Aviation Maintenance Technology (AMT) program.  

 

After a dedicated 2½-year development process led by MNTC Program Director Lee Dow and Instructor/Coordinator Justin Benard the program received FAA approval in March 2023. MNTC opened the doors to its adult A&P program in Fall 2023, followed by the launch of its high school program in Fall 2024. The facilities — renovated to meet rigorous FAA standards and equipped with industry-leading technology — now serve as a hub for next-generation aviation training. 

 

This year’s AERO Oklahoma event marked a historic first for MNTC, as Dow, MNTC AMT Instructor Austin Beard, and MNTC Counselor Jennifer Layman brought the inaugural class of 24 high school aviation students to the Capitol. These high school students, as well as the currently enrolled adult students, represent the first wave of future licensed A&P technicians from MNTC — a testament to the center’s commitment to empowering students with real-world, high-demand skills. 

 

"Seeing our students at the Capitol, engaging with industry leaders and legislators, was a powerful moment," said Dow, who has attended AERO Oklahoma for the past three years. "It solidifies how far we’ve come and what’s possible when vision, planning, and partnerships align." 

 

Attendees at the event included industry leaders, military personnel, state legislators, aerospace vendors, educators, and students. MNTC also participated in the Legislator Luncheon, where Senator Paul Rosino and other state leaders emphasized the importance of education-industry alignment in strengthening Oklahoma’s economic engine. 

 

MNTC adult graduates are now entering the workforce every six months, earning FAA licenses after completing the intensive 18-month program. The graduates are immediately contributing to Oklahoma’s aviation and aerospace sectors, helping meet the urgent demand for maintenance technicians across the state. 

 

As Oklahoma solidifies its status as a global leader in aerospace and defense, MNTC remains at the forefront — training the workforce of tomorrow, today. 

 

Presented annually, AERO Oklahoma brings together key players in the industry to advocate for continued growth and recognition of aviation and aerospace as a driving force in Oklahoma’s economy. Industry partners include Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, Oklahoma Department of Commerce/ACES, Tulsa Innovation Labs, Rose State College, Covington Aircraft Engines Inc, American Airlines, Boeing, Oklahoma Defense Industry Association, Parkhill, Consolidated Turbine Specialists, Oklahoma Department of Transportation, Critical Components, and the Oklahoma City Innovation District in partnership with Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology and Omni Aircraft Maintenance.  

 

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Established in 1972, Moore Norman Technology Center is committed to meeting the workforce demands of Cleveland County and beyond. MNTC equips high school and adult students with career and technical skills that lead to the industry certifications needed to fill high-demand workforce needs quickly and successfully in sectors like aerospace & aviation, healthcare, construction/manufacturing, STEM, and public safety.