Central Tech recognized Ardagh Glass during the 2026 Oklahoma Association for Career and Technical Education (OKACTE) Partners in Progress awards banquet for a longstanding partnership that strengthens Oklahoma’s manufacturing workforce and carries forward Sapulpa’s proud glassmaking legacy.
The Partners in Progress Award honors industry partners who demonstrate a sustained commitment to workforce development, innovation, and community impact. Ardagh Glass was recognized for its investment in people-first training and its collaboration with Central Tech to deliver high-quality, industry-aligned education for apprentices and employees.
The collaboration between Central Tech and Ardagh supports Central Tech’s mission to empower individuals, strengthen industry, and support the economic vitality of our region. Through this partnership, Central Tech delivers training that helps employees build skills, confidence, and clear pathways for their careers. Ardagh apprentices receive comprehensive safety education and technical instruction across four critical occupations: electromechanical technician, mold maker, machine repair, and IS operator. Each of these roles supports the core operations of modern glass production, ensuring that employees gain both foundational skills and meaningful real-world experience.
“As we prepare our workforce for the future of manufacturing, Central Tech has emerged as a model partner in advancing our upskilling strategy,” said Joel Tapia, people development manager at Ardagh Glass. “Their leadership in integrating virtual reality as a modern training solution has positioned our apprentices for success in an increasingly technology-driven environment. Through this strong and forward-focused partnership, we are elevating the quality of training today while continuing to create new opportunities that align with the evolving manufacturing landscape of tomorrow.”
Katie Brown, HRM at Ardagh Glass, said the recognition reflects the value of collaboration. “Receiving the Partners in Progress Award from Central Technology Center is truly an honor,” Brown said. “Building a people-first culture starts with investing in training, growth and development—and partnerships like this make that possible. Early in my career, I learned you don’t have to do it alone, and Central Tech has been a key part of developing our workforce and strengthening our future.”
“This recognition is about more than an award; it’s about what happens when education and industry commit to people,” said Kent Burris, superintendent at Central Tech. “Ardagh Glass has been a true partner in helping individuals build skills, confidence, and careers that last. Together, we’re creating safe, relevant training that respects the legacy of glassmaking in Sapulpa while preparing today’s workforce for what’s next.”
Central Tech is proud to deliver training that helps create safer workplaces, clear career pathways and long-term opportunities for Oklahoma workers. Together with Ardagh Glass, Central Tech is building a pipeline of skilled professionals.