How OKC’s Metro Tech Aviation Brings Opportunities And People To Oklahoma

Metro Tech is helping fill a need in Oklahoma’s aviation workforce. 

The technology school is investing millions of dollars into its MacArthur campus. 

Metro Tech’s aviation student Richard Jordan Jr. said this program is where the sky is the limit. “I love working with my hands. I couldn’t sit behind a desk to save my life,” Jordan said. “I feel like I can be myself here.” 

Jordan moved to Oklahoma for this opportunity and has seen his life take shape. “I love the experience,” he said. 

Jordan is one of 280 students in Metro Tech’s Aviation program. Superintendent Aaron Collins said the school invested $1.8 million to elevate this building’s appearance. 

“That’s the value of Oklahoma career tech,” Collins said. “You see a place in which you have pride.” 

Collins said people like Jordan are in high demand in Oklahoma. The Oklahoma aviation workforce needs 300 mechanics each year. Flight takes a team and Jordan knows something about teamwork.   

The former Missouri Southern State All-American linebacker takes lessons from the gridiron and applies them to his life. His mom works in aviation too and serves as his inspiration. 

“Had a great time, but it was definitely just a stepping stone to realize that there’s more to life just than football,” Jordan said. “Maybe the hope is flying for FedEx or a major airline one day. That’d be great.” 

Jordan had no ties to Oklahoma, but this opportunity landed Richard where he said he belonged. 

“I got hooked so I’m here now,” Jordan said. “Proud to say that I'm a metro tech graduate one day.” 

The Oklahoma City Airport Trust repaired the roof of Metro Tech’s facility. The public is invited to check out the renovations and the campus at an open house Friday morning from 10 a.m. to noon at 5600 S MacArthur Blvd in Oklahoma City next to Will Rogers World Airport. Metro Tech is taking applications now for the fall semester.