NCLA Podcast

Innovative CTE Practices in Building Oklahoma's Workforce wtih Superintendent and CEO, Brian Ruttman


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For 20 years, Brian Ruttman has been instrumental in building Oklahoma’s workforce through

his visionary leadership for Oklahoma CareerTech. With a passion for helping others improve

their lives through education and employment, Ruttman is a true innovator and inspiring

community servant.


Ruttman’s service to the Oklahoma CareerTech system began in 2003 at Metro Technology

Centers in Oklahoma City, where he served as chief officer, executive officer and associate

superintendent. Since 2019, he has led the Moore Norman Technology Center (MNTC) district

as superintendent and chief executive officer. Ruttman’s strong vision for the future and

transformational leadership has empowered his team to develop innovative programming to

fulfill the workforce needs of the communities they serve.


Through Ruttman’s collaborative approach, MNTC has developed strategic partnerships with

public schools, police and fire departments, hospitals and other industry leaders to identify

training and educational opportunities that prepare students for success and benefit the

community. Under Ruttman’s leadership, MNTC has pioneered the way for first-of-a-kind

training programs in transportation, public safety, health and aviation industries.


Ruttman was recognized by the Oklahoma Career and Technical Education Equity Council

(OkCTEEC) for his communication and leadership skills during the COVID-19 pandemic. He

prioritized the health and safety of students, faculty and staff to ensure a safe learning

environment. In 2021 and 2022, MNTC received the Great Places to Work certification that

measures employee survey results against best practices from leading companies worldwide to

recognize employers who create an outstanding employee experience.


A strong advocate for economic development throughout the greater Oklahoma City

metropolitan area, Ruttman is involved in several chambers of commerce. He has served on the

executive board of the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and currently serves on the

board of directors of the Norman Economic Development Coalition.


Ruttman is a longtime supporter of United Way of Norman, championing the cause through

MNTC’s pacesetter campaign that creates opportunities for employees to give back to their

community. Additionally, he prioritizes support of the MNTC Foundation, providing scholarships

for students, grants for teachers and emergency funding for students or staff facing financial

hardships.


His commitment to improving the quality of life for fellow Oklahomans extends beyond his

professional endeavors. In his personal life, Ruttman and his family are active in the Laotian

community, connecting individuals with English language learning and other education to help

increase employment opportunities and family resources.


A graduate of University of Central Oklahoma, Ruttman has a master’s degree in adult

education and training and a bachelor’s degree in business administration. He and his wife,

Nunu, reside in south Oklahoma City with their son and daughter, Ashleigh and Aubrey.

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