Burns Flat, OK – Western Technology Center has announced Jay Edelen as its next superintendent, set to begin July 1, 2026. Edelen will become the seventh superintendent in the organization’s history, which dates back to 1970 and serves communities across western Oklahoma.

Edelen brings 26 years of experience in education to the role. He began his career in Kingfisher as a science teacher and coach before moving into administration. His leadership path includes serving as principal at Medford Public Schools, superintendent at Pioneer Public Schools, and most recently, superintendent of Arapaho-Butler Public Schools, where he has led for the past 12 years.

Arapaho-Butler is one of 14 partner school districts served by Western Technology Center. Edelen said his experience working alongside CareerTech programs has given him a firsthand look at their impact on students.

“I’ve seen the impact on students who have attended WTC,” Edelen said. “My goal has always been to help prepare students to be productive members of society. And now with CareerTech, that goal continues as we bridge academics with workforce readiness.”

Edelen earned his CareerTech certification in 2021 after encouragement from mentor Max Thomas, a former superintendent of Chisholm Trail Technology Center. He said that step helped prepare him for this next phase of his career.

“Timing is right for this career move. Bittersweet, but right,” Edelen said, reflecting on his departure from Arapaho-Butler. “Arapaho-Butler is a great school, with a great staff and a great community all working together to be a great school district.”

During his tenure, Arapaho-Butler earned numerous athletic and academic honors. In 2025, the district received the Oklahoma Blue Ribbon Award from the Oklahoma State Department of Education, recognizing exceptional academic performance and a strong commitment to student success.

Looking ahead, Edelen said he is eager to continue the mission of Western Technology Center and strengthen ties between education and workforce development.

“The possibilities are endless for western Oklahoma,” he said.

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