Great Plains Technology Center (GPTC) is a leading career and technical education (CTE) school in Lawton, Oklahoma, dedicated to preparing students for high-demand careers through hands-on, industry-aligned training. Whether you are a high school student exploring career pathways, an adult learner seeking workforce development, or a professional looking to upgrade your skills, GPTC offers the affordable, flexible programs you need to succeed.
Located at 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd in Lawton, OK, the center serves students across southwest Oklahoma with a comprehensive catalog of vocational training programs, online courses, and community education events — all taught by industry-certified instructors.
1. Why Choose Great Plains Technology Center?
High-Demand Career Programs
GPTC’s curriculum is designed around the jobs employers are actually hiring for. From cybersecurity and practical nursing to welding and cosmetology, every program is built to deliver real-world skills and industry-recognized certifications that employers value. Students graduate ready to enter the workforce — not just ready for more school.
Affordable Path to a Better Career
One of the most compelling reasons to choose GPTC over a traditional four-year university is cost. According to College Scorecard data, GPTC students benefit from a significantly lower average annual cost compared to four-year institutions, while achieving median earnings that compare favorably to high school graduates who did not pursue further education. This translates to a strong return on investment with far less debt.
Flexible Learning Options
Life does not stop for school, and GPTC understands that. The center offers evening classes, online courses through the ed2go portal, and hybrid learning formats — making it possible for working adults, parents, and busy high school students to pursue their education on a schedule that works for them.
2. Programs We Offer
Great Plains Technology Center offers a diverse array of career and technical education programs organized into five broad areas of study. Each program is designed to lead directly to employment or further certification upon completion.
Business & Information Technology
GPTC’s business and IT programs equip students with the practical skills needed in modern workplaces, from small businesses to large corporations.
- QuickBooks Online: Master the industry-standard accounting software used by millions of small businesses. Perfect for aspiring bookkeepers, office managers, and entrepreneurs.
- Bookkeeping & Accounting: Learn financial record-keeping, accounts payable/receivable, payroll processing, and reporting fundamentals.
- Cybersecurity: Gain foundational and advanced skills in network security, threat detection, and data protection — one of the fastest-growing fields in technology.
- Computer Skills & Microsoft Office: Build essential workplace technology skills including word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, and digital communication.
- Business Development Center Courses: Specialized short-term workshops and courses through GPTC’s Business Development Center, open to the public and designed for entrepreneurs and professionals.
Health Sciences
Healthcare careers offer stability, purpose, and strong earning potential. GPTC’s health sciences programs provide clinical knowledge and hands-on training to launch careers in patient care and medical support.
- Practical Nursing (LPN): A structured program leading to licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse, covering anatomy, pharmacology, patient care, and clinical rotations.
- Medical Assisting: Training in both administrative and clinical medical assisting tasks, including patient intake, vital signs, lab procedures, and electronic health records.
- Pharmacy Technology: Preparation for roles in retail and hospital pharmacy settings, including drug classifications, prescription processing, and pharmacy law.
- Healthcare Support Programs: Additional short-term certifications and training tracks in health-related fields to meet regional workforce demand.
Skilled Trades & Technical
The trades are experiencing a significant workforce shortage nationwide — and GPTC is helping fill that gap by producing skilled, job-ready graduates in the most in-demand technical fields.
- Welding Technology: Hands-on training in MIG, TIG, and arc welding techniques. Graduates are prepared for careers in manufacturing, construction, and fabrication.
- HVAC (Heating, Ventilation & Air Conditioning): Training in residential and commercial HVAC systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Automotive Technology: Comprehensive automotive service and repair training aligned with ASE certification standards, covering engines, brakes, electrical systems, and diagnostics.
- Construction Trades: Foundational skills in carpentry, building systems, and construction technology through the Student Project House — a unique, real-world learning environment where students build actual structures.
Creative & Personal Services
Creative industries and personal services offer flexible, rewarding career paths. GPTC’s programs in this area combine technical skill-building with creative expression.
- Cosmetology: State board preparation with training in hair care, skincare, nail technology, and salon management. Graduates are eligible to sit for the Oklahoma cosmetology licensure exam.
- Stained Glass Design: A unique community education course exploring traditional and contemporary stained glass techniques — both a creative hobby and a marketable skill.
- Culinary Arts / Food Truck 101: An innovative, hands-on program that teaches culinary fundamentals and the business of running a food truck operation — from menu planning and food safety to licensing and marketing.
Professional Development & Community Education
GPTC’s Business Development Center and community education division offer a wide range of non-credit, short-term workshops and events open to the general public. These include entrepreneurship seminars, QuickBooks training, food business workshops like the popular Food Truck 101 event, and much more. These programs are ideal for professionals looking to upskill without committing to a full credential program.
3. Cost, Financial Aid & Scholarships
One of the biggest barriers to education is cost — but GPTC is committed to making career and technical education accessible to everyone. Between low tuition, federal financial aid, foundation scholarships, and emergency grants, there are multiple layers of support available to students.
Average Cost & Federal Aid
According to federal College Scorecard data, Great Plains Technology Center offers some of the most affordable postsecondary education in Oklahoma. Below is a summary of key cost and aid figures:
| Financial Metric | Data Point |
| Average Annual Cost (net price) | Competitive — significantly below 4-year colleges |
| Percentage Receiving Pell Grant | High — majority of students qualify |
| Percentage with Federal Loans | Below national average |
| Median Earnings 8 Years After Attending | Exceeds high school graduate median |
| Loan Repayment Rate | Actively monitored under ED standards |
| Student-to-Faculty Ratio | Small class sizes for personalized instruction |
For the most current figures, visit the official College Scorecard profile at: https://collegescorecard.ed.gov/school/?364548
Great Plains Technology Center Foundation Scholarships
The Great Plains Technology Center Foundation provides scholarship funding to help remove financial barriers for both high school and adult learners.
Next Step Scholarships — For High School Seniors
Designed specifically for current-year and previous-year high school seniors, Next Step Scholarships help graduating students transition directly into career and technical training at GPTC. Eligible applicants demonstrate financial need and a commitment to pursuing a career pathway program.
Traditional Foundation Scholarships — For Adult Students
Adult learners who demonstrate financial need are eligible to apply for Traditional Foundation Scholarships. These awards help cover tuition, fees, and program-specific costs, making it possible for working adults to invest in their career advancement without taking on significant debt.
Emergency Grants — Immediate Financial Support
Life happens — and sometimes unexpected expenses can derail a student’s educational journey. GPTC’s emergency grant program is designed to prevent that. Students facing financial hardship may apply for emergency funding to cover a range of eligible expenses, including:
- Utility bills (to maintain stable housing during enrollment)
- Uniforms and required work clothing
- Tools and equipment for hands-on programs
- Prescription glasses or vision correction needs
- Textbooks and course materials
- Enrollment fees and certification exam fees
- Transportation costs to and from campus
To apply for an emergency grant, students should contact the Financial Aid office directly. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis based on need and available funding.
4. Student Outcomes & Return on Investment
Choosing a CTE program is an investment in your future. Here is what the data says about the value of a Great Plains Technology Center education.
Graduation Rate & Loan Repayment
GPTC maintains a competitive graduation rate, reflecting the center’s commitment to student success and program completion. The institution is currently monitored under U.S. Department of Education standards, which means its repayment rates and student outcomes are actively tracked and reported for transparency.
The loan repayment rate — which measures the percentage of borrowers who are actively paying down their federal student loans within a defined period after leaving school — is a key indicator of graduate financial health. GPTC graduates demonstrate a repayment trajectory that reflects the real earning power of career and technical credentials.
Median Earnings After Attending
According to federal data, GPTC graduates earn more than individuals who stopped their education at a high school diploma. Median earnings eight years after attending show that the investment in CTE training translates to meaningfully higher lifetime income — often with far less debt than a four-year degree requires.
When you factor in the lower tuition cost, faster time-to-completion, and quicker entry into the workforce, the financial ROI of a GPTC program often surpasses that of more expensive alternatives.
Median Total Debt at Graduation
GPTC students who borrow graduate with significantly lower median debt than students at four-year institutions. This is a critical advantage: lower debt means lower monthly payments, more financial flexibility, and a faster path to financial independence after graduation.
Success Stories — Hear from GPTC Graduates
The most powerful evidence of GPTC’s impact is the success of its graduates. Alumni have gone on to start their own businesses, advance to leadership roles in their fields, and build stable, rewarding careers in healthcare, the trades, technology, and more.
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5. How to Apply
Applying to Great Plains Technology Center is straightforward, and the admissions team is available to guide you through every step. GPTC uses an online application system (Applitrack) for both high school students and adult learners.
For High School Students
High school students — including current-year seniors and previous-year graduates — are welcome to enroll in GPTC programs. The process typically includes:
- Confirming eligibility with your school counselor or GPTC advisor
- Completing the online application through Applitrack
- Providing enrollment verification and transcript information
- Attending a program orientation or information session
- Applying for Next Step Scholarships if applicable
Many programs allow high school students to earn dual credit or begin working toward industry certifications while still completing their high school diploma. This is an exceptional opportunity to get a head start on a career before graduation.
For Adult Students
Adult learners can enroll in programs on an open-enrollment basis, meaning you do not need to wait for a traditional academic calendar. The application steps include:
- Browse the program catalog and identify the program that aligns with your career goals
- Submit your application through the Applitrack online portal
- Complete FAFSA to determine eligibility for Pell Grants and federal loans
- Apply for Foundation Scholarships if you demonstrate financial need
- Attend an intake meeting with a program advisor to confirm enrollment
- Apply for emergency grants if unexpected financial needs arise
Online Application Process via Applitrack
GPTC’s admissions process is managed through Applitrack, a secure online applicant tracking system. To apply:
- Visit the GPTC website and navigate to the Admissions section
- Click the Apply Now link to access the Applitrack portal
- Create an account and complete the application form
- Upload any required documents (transcripts, ID, etc.)
- Submit your application — a GPTC enrollment specialist will follow up within a few business days
Have questions before applying? Call or visit the campus to speak with an enrollment advisor. GPTC’s team is committed to helping every student find the right program and navigate the enrollment process with confidence.
6. Campus Location & Facilities
Main Campus: 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd, Lawton, OK
Great Plains Technology Center’s main campus is located at 1601 SW Park Ridge Blvd in Lawton, Oklahoma — conveniently situated in southwest Oklahoma to serve students from Lawton and the surrounding region. The campus features modern classrooms, industry-grade labs, and specialized training facilities designed to simulate real workplace environments.
GPTC also offers online courses through the ed2go portal and hybrid learning options, ensuring that students who cannot commute to campus daily can still access high-quality career training.
Business Development Center
The Business Development Center (BDC) is a specialized facility within GPTC dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs, small business owners, and working professionals. The BDC offers workshops, seminars, and short-term training courses on topics ranging from business planning and marketing to QuickBooks and food safety certification. Many BDC events are open to the public and offered at little to no cost — making them an excellent resource for the Lawton business community.
Student Project House
One of GPTC’s most distinctive facilities is the Student Project House — a unique, hands-on learning environment where construction trades students apply their skills by building an actual structure from the ground up. This real-world training model means graduates enter the workforce with documented, practical experience that employers recognize and value. The Student Project House exemplifies GPTC’s philosophy: learning by doing.
7. FAQs
Below are answers to the most common questions prospective students and families have about Great Plains Technology Center.,
What programs does Great Plains Technology Center offer?
GPTC offers career and technical education programs in five major areas: Business & IT (QuickBooks, Cybersecurity, Bookkeeping), Health Sciences (Practical Nursing, Medical Assisting, Pharmacy Tech), Skilled Trades (Welding, HVAC, Automotive, Construction), Creative & Personal Services (Cosmetology, Stained Glass, Culinary/Food Truck 101), and Professional Development through the Business Development Center. Online courses are also available via the ed2go platform.
Is Great Plains Technology Center accredited?
GPTC operates under the oversight of the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education (CareerTech) and reports outcomes data to the U.S. Department of Education through the College Scorecard system. Specific program accreditations vary by field — contact GPTC directly for program-specific accreditation details.
How much does it cost to attend GPTC?
Costs vary by program, but GPTC is consistently one of the most affordable postsecondary options in Oklahoma. Federal financial aid (including Pell Grants), foundation scholarships, and emergency grants are all available to eligible students, which can significantly reduce or eliminate out-of-pocket costs. Visit the College Scorecard profile for the most current net price data.
What is the average salary after attending GPTC?
Federal data shows that GPTC graduates earn more than individuals who completed only a high school diploma. Median earnings eight years after attending reflect the real-world value of career and technical credentials. Earnings vary by program — healthcare and trades programs typically command higher salaries than entry-level business or creative service roles.
Does GPTC offer online classes?
Yes. GPTC offers online courses through the ed2go portal, which provides access to hundreds of instructor-moderated online courses in business, technology, healthcare, and more. Some full credential programs also offer hybrid learning formats, combining online instruction with required on-campus lab or clinical components.
Can high school students take classes at GPTC?
Absolutely. GPTC actively welcomes high school students, including current-year seniors and recent graduates. High school enrollment may allow students to earn dual credit, start a career certification, or complete vocational training that complements their high school diploma. The Next Step Scholarship program was created specifically to support this pathway.
What scholarships are available for adult students?
Adult students with demonstrated financial need can apply for Traditional Foundation Scholarships through the Great Plains Technology Center Foundation. Emergency grants are also available for students facing unexpected financial hardship, covering expenses such as tools, uniforms, textbooks, transportation, and utility bills.
How do I apply for an emergency grant for tools or uniforms?
Students can apply for emergency grants through the GPTC financial aid office. Emergency grants cover a range of essential expenses including tools, uniforms, glasses, books, certification fees, and transportation. Applications are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Contact the financial aid office on campus for current application procedures and eligibility requirements.
What is the student-to-faculty ratio at Great Plains Technology Center?
GPTC maintains small class sizes designed to support individualized instruction and mentorship. The exact student-to-faculty ratio is reported through the College Scorecard. Smaller class sizes are one of the key advantages of choosing a CTE center over a large community college or university, where students may feel lost in crowded lecture halls.
Does GPTC have a job placement service?
While specific job placement services may vary, GPTC’s industry-certified instructors maintain strong connections with regional employers. Program advisors actively assist students with career planning, resume preparation, and connecting with hiring employers. Industry partnerships with Lawton-area businesses create direct pipelines from graduation to employment for many program completers.
8. Work With Us – Careers at Great Plains Technology Center
Great Plains Technology Center is always looking for talented, passionate individuals to join its team as faculty, instructors, and support staff. GPTC is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to building a diverse and inclusive workforce that reflects the community it serves.
Why Work at GPTC?
- Make a direct impact on students’ lives and career trajectories
- Competitive compensation and benefits package
- Collaborative, mission-driven work environment
- Opportunity to use your industry expertise to train the next generation of skilled workers
- Professional development and continuing education support
How to Apply for a Position
All job openings at GPTC — including faculty, instructional, and administrative positions — are posted through the Applitrack applicant tracking system. To view current openings and submit an application:
- Visit the GPTC website and navigate to the Employment or HR section
- Browse available positions and review job descriptions
- Submit your application and supporting documents through the online portal
For employment inquiries, contact the GPTC Human Resources department directly at HR@greatplains.edu. GPTC encourages individuals with industry experience and a passion for education to explore opportunities to bring their skills to the classroom.
Ready to Start Your Career Journey?
Great Plains Technology Center is more than a school — it is a gateway to a better career, a stronger income, and a brighter future. With affordable tuition, flexible scheduling, hands-on training, robust financial aid, and a proven track record of student success, GPTC is the smart choice for career and technical education in southwest Oklahoma.
Whether you are a high school student ready to get a head start, an adult learner looking for a career change, or a professional seeking to upgrade your skills, GPTC has a program for you.
Adrian Cole is a technology researcher and AI content specialist with more than seven years of experience studying automation, machine learning models, and digital innovation. He has worked with multiple tech startups as a consultant, helping them adopt smarter tools and build data-driven systems. Adrian writes simple, clear, and practical explanations of complex tech topics so readers can easily understand the future of AI.
