MidAmerica Partnership Helps Northeast Tech Student Land Role at HE&M Saw
04/13/2026
MidAmerica Industrial Park’s workforce partnerships are designed to give students hands-on experience, build professional skills and create clear pathways from the classroom to a career. Northeast Tech student Tyler Kik is one example of how those connections can turn a project into a job opportunity.
Kik supported MidAmerica’s Podcast in the Park during the 2024–2025 season as the primary recording engineer and editor. Working closely with MidAmerica Workforce Development Coordinator Brittany Greer, he coordinated recording schedules, set up and troubleshot equipment and edited each episode from start to finish. After episodes were approved, he uploaded the final audio to streaming platforms so the community could listen.
“My biggest advice for students who are wanting to turn class experience into real work is to get uncomfortable,” Kik said. “There are so many more opportunities that exist after you start to branch yourself out and try new things.”
That mindset paid off during a podcast recording when Kik met Max Harris, a guest on the show, and learned HE&M Saw was hiring. Kik followed up after the episode and, with support from Greer, finalized the connection and was hired as the company videographer.
Today, Kik produces video content that supports HE&M Saw’s internal communications, marketing and trade show efforts, including training videos, product features and digital ads. He also took on responsibilities as the company’s trade show coordinator, coordinating with show representatives, tracking deadlines and aligning internal teams on logistics and expectations.
Kik credited Northeast Tech’s Visual Communications program with developing the confidence and communication skills that helped him step into a professional role.
“Tyler brought a strong work ethic and creative mindset to every project, and he consistently delivered professional-level work,” said Jeff Faulconer, Northeast Tech instructor. “Northeast Tech’s Visual Communications program gives students hands-on experience so they are ready to contribute immediately in the workplace.”
From Podcast in the Park to a full-time role at HE&M Saw, Kik’s story reflects how MidAmerica’s partnerships with educators and employers help students build skills, relationships and career momentum in northeast Oklahoma.