MT Foundation Receives Grant for Multimedia Journalism Program

Metro Technology Centers is launching a new Multimedia Journalism program to equip high school juniors and seniors with the skills and knowledge necessary for a journalism career in the digital age. Made possible through a $150,000 grant awarded to the Metro Tech Foundation by the Kirkpatrick Foundation, the program will offer hands-on career training in photography, podcasting, video production, and social media.

Not only will the program add to the variety of unique and innovative educational opportunities at Metro Tech, but it will also address the need for skilled workers in the field of multimedia journalism.

"Civic education is predicated on quality journalism," Kirkpatrick Foundation Executive Director Louisa McCune said. "Over the last few years at Kirkpatrick Foundation, we have become increasingly invested in nonprofit journalism. Metro Tech's professionalism and understanding of what's at stake for the future of journalism guided our process from the beginning. We are so excited to watch the unfolding of these next steps."

Half of the funds will be designated to support a 10-month instructor for the program. The remaining will be directed toward acquiring equipment, technology and supplies such as computers, software and cameras.

“We are immensely proud to bring in this funding for Metro Tech,” Metro Tech Foundation Executive Director Ashleigh Gibson said. “With this partnership, we are building a brighter future for our students and empowering our mission to create opportunities for accessible and affordable education.”

The program is set to launch in the fall of 2024 and will train approximately 40 high school students annually.

"Implementing our new Multimedia Journalism program exemplifies our commitment to training an ever-evolving workforce in Oklahoma City," Metro Tech Superintendent Aaron Collins said. "This initiative will foster the next generation of informed and engaged journalists. We hope this program sparks an interest in the field and the students continue their education. We are grateful to the Kirkpatrick and Metro Tech Foundations for continuously supporting quality career training and education."

Students interested in enrolling can visit apply.metrotech.edu or call 405-424-TECH to speak with a career advisor.