For the third year, Central Tech hosted the Building Employment Skills for Today (BEST) and the Summer Transition Employment Program (STEP), collectively known as BEST STEP, summer program at the Sapulpa campus – and it was a hit! From June 9–13, students aged 16–21 with a documented disability or eligible for the Department of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) dove into a week full of learning, growth, and career exploration, all while having a great time. 

The program, a partnership between DRS, Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS), and Central Tech, is designed to help young people build real-world job skills and prepare for life after high school. The week kicked off with a fun and informative orientation. During the BEST week, students explored career paths and job search strategies, practiced workplace and social skills, learned about life after high school, and connected with peers and mentors while building confidence, independence, and teamwork abilities.  

One highlight included a visit to Central Tech’s Cosmetology program. Students started in the classroom, learning how chemistry connects to beauty treatments like eyelash application, skincare, and hair coloring. Then, they rolled up their sleeves to try their hand at rolling perms, trimming hair, and apply nail polish. By the end of the week, students were ready to take on the world – or at least the next step! 

What’s the next step for students? STEP! Students who completed BEST have the chance to participate in STEP, a four-week paid internship program. They work part-time (up to 25 hours a week) with local businesses, gaining hands-on experience and support from job coaches. 

Applications opened in November and filled up fast – because who wouldn’t want to spend their summer gaining skills, making friends, and getting paid?