Pontotoc Technology Center (PTC) welcomed local business leaders and elected officials/representatives to campus today to recognize continued progress on its new Healthcare Wing and expanded classroom space—made possible by a $4.5 million federal investment secured in 2024 through the support of Congressman Tom Cole.
The gathering served as a visual milestone of forward movement, with community partners assembling at the construction site to mark the transition from funding to tangible development. The project, now underway, represents a significant step toward expanding healthcare training capacity and strengthening workforce pipelines across the region.
“This moment reflects more than a groundbreaking—it represents momentum,” said PTC Superintendent, Travis Graham. “We are seeing the direct impact of strategic investment in career and technical education, and the result will be expanded opportunities for students and stronger support for our regional healthcare system.”
Once complete, the new Healthcare Wing will extend PTC’s current nursing facilities and create additional classroom space to support both high school and adult learners. The expansion will enhance training across multiple healthcare pathways, certifications, and continuing education programs. It also allows us to be flexible and bring to life programs to serve needs yet unknown to be identified by our partners in the future.
The project aligns with the needs of Ada’s healthcare ecosystem, including Mercy Hospital Ada, Chickasaw Nation Medical Center, The Clinic, and other healthcare providers, all of which rely on Pontotoc Tech as a key training partner for workforce development tied directly to patient care.
In addition to classroom space, plans for the expansion include a trauma and air evacuation training pad, which will provide critical, real-world training opportunities for both nursing students and participants in PTC’s Firefighter Academy. PTC serves as a primary training hub for many municipal and volunteer fire departments across southeastern Oklahoma.
Today’s event underscores the importance of follow-through in public investment and highlights the collaborative effort required to bring large-scale projects to life.