Mid-Del Technology Center proudly participated in the Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services’ BEST STEP Internship Program this summer. This unique initiative bridges the gap between education and employment for students ages 16 to 21, and this year, Mid-Del Tech had the opportunity to welcome one of its own students as an intern: Cooper, a MDTC student in the Auto Collision program.
In partnership with the National Center for Disability Education and Training at University of Oklahoma Outreach, the program equips qualifying students with critical workplace readiness and soft skills training. The internship is divided into two parts: the BEST portion is a week of classroom-based employment training focused on soft skills such as communication, interview preparation, and time management. The second phase, STEP, provides students with a four-week internship, giving them hands-on experience in a real-world work environment.
According to Cooper, this program helped him step outside his comfort zone. “It was fun,” he shared. “We played some games and learned everything about getting a job.” During his internship at Mid-Del Tech, Cooper assisted with tasks like managing inventory, learning budgeting basics, understanding safety expectations, and even creating button designs and illustrations. While the work was varied, every task had a purpose—to prepare Cooper for life beyond the classroom.
Cooper originally came to Mid-Del Tech to learn practical life skills. “I wanted to be able to fix my own car, fix plumbing—just things that would help in life,” he said. In his Auto Collision class, he’s been learning how to assess and repair damage from accidents, use tools and equipment safely, and take apart and reassemble vehicles. “We get certain tasks to fix a car from people who want their cars fixed,” he explained. His instructor provides support as needed, giving him room to grow his independence and confidence.
Stuart Manning, Cooper’s STEP skills trainer, is a Special Education Paraprofessional during the school year and one of several trainers across the state. Stuart supervises four interns, including Cooper, and believes strongly in the mission of the program. “I like the purpose of this program because I believe everyone deserves an equal opportunity to be as successful and happy as possible,” he said.
Stuart noted that Cooper began the internship shy and hesitant, but through the support of the program and real work experience, he’s become much more confident and communicative. “The internships give students an opportunity to learn what they like—and what they don’t. That’s just as important,” Stuart said.
Heather Tison, Director of Marketing at Mid-Del Tech, said the school was excited to host a BEST STEP intern. “We believe in creating real opportunities for every student, and programs like BEST STEP align perfectly with our mission to transform lives through hands-on learning. Cooper brought curiosity and dedication to his internship, and we’re proud to be part of his journey.”
The BEST STEP program is more than just a summer job—it’s a launching pad for future success. For students like Cooper, it opens the door to a world of opportunity, encourages independence, and proves that real-world learning can change lives.