Gordon Cooper Technology Center gives students the opportunity to get hands-on learning experience in a field that they would like to have a career in. They have a wide range of programs that students can choose from. James Smith Jr. is a senior at Earlsboro High School and he is also in the Electrical program at Gordon Cooper. He says that he heard a lot of good things about the school and he has had a great experience.

“My sisters and friends all attended here,” he said. “I also chose it because all of my friends were here and it looked really interesting. I was told that it was a good way to get started in a career. I have had a great time so far because it really shows you real life experience, working hard, and how to be prepared for life.”

Smith was asked if he knew of someone that was on the fence about attending Gordon Cooper Technology Center what would he tell them.

“I would tell them that attending here has some good benefits,” he said. “You get free schooling and you are able to learn a trade. It could possibly be a changing point in your life. 

As a student at Earlsboro, James plays basketball and baseball for the Wildcats. He is also a volunteer firefighter in Earlsboro. 

On the court or on the field, Smith says that his biggest motivation was always getting the win. And as he looks back on his career, he says that there is one moment that stands out as his favorite. 

“I would have to say that getting Earlsboro’s boys basketball’s first district title in fifteen years this season would be the best moment of my career,” he said. “It was great to be able to share that moment and experience with my teammates.”

Once he graduates high school, James plans to attend Eastern Oklahoma Technology Center in Choctaw for firefighter school.