KREF is a locally owned media company providing sports news, live broadcasts of high school football, basketball, baseball, and softball games, and related content. For many years, the media company helped MNTC reach the broad KREF audience by augmenting already affordable advertising with countless free mentions through their various media outlets. In recent years, however, the partnership between the two entities has grown to impact countless students and the local economy. 

As KREF expanded its coverage, they needed camera crews for the growing number of games held in multiple locations. Unable to find enough camera operators, KREF turned to MNTC. The opportunity was a perfect fit, allowing students to gain professional experience while still in school, with the added benefit of paid positions. 

This collaboration not only equips students with technical skills but also opens doors to paid job opportunities in the media industry. Perry Spencer, director of KREFSports.tv, has explained that the partnership benefits both parties, giving students hands-on experience while helping KREF meet the increasing demand for local sports coverage. MNTC’s Digital Cinema instructor Amy Smith appreciates how these positions help students build a professional foundation, understand the professional value of their work, and advance in their fields.  

The impact of these paid opportunities is evident in the success stories of past students. Owen Nooner, a graduate of the MNTC DCTP program, began working with KREF while enrolled at Moore Norman. Today he continues to work for KREF filming sports events while also enrolled at Oklahoma City Community College. He credits his paid experience with helping him take his craft seriously, providing him with the professional resume necessary for his career advancement. This collaboration, covering a variety of sports, has provided students with the technical expertise necessary for careers in sports media, production, and broadcasting. 

In addition, the KREF partnership exposes students to a wide range of careers in digital media, including sports broadcasting, TV production, social media, and live event coverage. MNTC’s digital cinema program provides a comprehensive curriculum that includes storytelling, scriptwriting, camera operation, editing software, and live production crew experience, preparing students for careers in sports media, film production, and beyond. The combination of learning opportunities from both entities result in highly engaged students who are prepared to enter the workforce. 

The partnership between KREF and MNTC has transformed students’ careers, offering real-world experience and paid opportunities that bridge the gap between education and employment. It has also met a growing workforce need for KREF, which has initiated similar partnerships with career tech centers throughout Oklahoma. This collaboration has shaped the future of aspiring media professionals, making KREF an ideal choice for our 2025 Partner in Progress.