December graduate exemplifies Pittsburg State’s mission

When Kody VanOsdol arrived at his Commencement ceremony, it was his first time to step foot on campus. An online option allowed him to earn a degree while working and raising a family. It's made a difference to him and to his students.

VanOsdol, a seasoned automotive industry professional with over 20 years of experience, transitioned into teaching Automotive Service Technology to high school students and adult learners at Francis Tuttle Technology Center a few years ago.

His role required him to earn a Bachelor's degree, a journey he began more than two decades ago but never completed.

Three years ago, he set out to earn that degree in Pitt State's Career and Technology Education program, doing so entirely online while working full-time and with his wife, raising four young children.

A transformational experience

VanOsdol not only completed his degree but also gained invaluable teaching skills.

"I had years of industry knowledge but was completely new as a teacher," he said. "This program equipped me with classroom procedures, instructional techniques, and strategies to engage my students."

One of his professors, Jayson Floyd, witnessed firsthand VanOsdol's growth as a teacher and the positive impact he in turn made in the lives of his students.

"By earning a Bachelor's degree, he advanced from a beginning teacher to one who is proficient and effective," Floyd said.

In one of Floyd's courses, Teaching Students with Special Needs in Career and Technical Education, VanOsdol learned to address the varied needs of his students, a skill that has significantly contributed to their success.

This year, VanOsdol leadership abilities were further recognized when his administrators asked him to mentor a new teacher.

From student to mentor

VanOsdol's journey to becoming a teacher is deeply rooted in his own education. As a high school student, he attended Francis Tuttle Technology Center, where he is now an instructor.

After earning an Associate of Art's degree from Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology, he spent 11 years working at car dealerships and repairing airplanes, followed by nine years managing an independent automotive shop.

"I tell my students, 'I was in your shoes 20 years ago'," VanOsdol said. "I really enjoy helping these youngsters get excited about the world of automotive, to get them into good jobs with steady incomes. It's really rewarding.

Floyd said that VanOsdol is a "shining example of the growth potential that is afforded students at Pitt State.

"Not only have his own skills and knowledge grown exponentially, but so have his students," Floyd said.

An accessible option

VanOsdol credits Pitt State's online program for being flexible and user-friendly.

"We have a busy family and young children, so the ability to log on in the evenings and work at my own pace was great," he said. "The courses, from psychology to lesson planning, have made me a better teacher. Networking with other instructors in the program was also a huge benefit."

VanOsdol, who turns 41 this week, said earning his degree has enriched both his career and personal life.

"It's been a really good journey for me and my family and it was worth it," he said. "Having this degree will mean an increase in pay, and because of all I learned, I'm a better teacher now."

About Career Technical Education

Pitt State's Career Technical Education provides students of all ages with the academic and technical skills, as well as the knowledge and training necessary, to succeed in today's workforce. Whether you are a recent high school graduate who wants to teach in a high school setting, or you have work experience in a specific area and wish to share your expertise with students at the secondary or post-secondary level, Pitt State has an option for you. Learn more: https://www.pittstate.edu/twl/programs/career-and-technical-education/index.html

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