Jerry Miketish was named Employment Training Specialist of the Year for the Northeastern region of Oklahoma by the Oklahoma Association for Persons in Supported Employment in ceremonies March 2nd in Tulsa . Miketish is an Employment Training Specialist at Central Tech in Sapulpa .

Miketish has been employed as an ETS in Central Tech's Supported Employment Program for three years. Program Coordinator Kim Howard describes Miketish as "a strong T.E.A.M. (Together.Everyone.Achieves.More) Player. Most people would say that is Jerry's motto. He believes this is the way to success. Jerry brings many qualities as an ETS such as loyalty, professionalism, and his Christian faith. Jerry builds great relationships with his employers and clients. He is always dropping a card off in the mail or to a jobsite. He likes everyone to know how much he appreciates them or to just give them a laugh or encouragement."

"Jerry is a very innovative person. He has taken the initiative to transcribe a practice driving test for his clients who are unable to read. He typed the entire test to allow the client to "read along" as they listen to the recording. This has been very helpful to assist clients in getting their drivers license and making their lives more independent. It has made it easier for a client to become more flexible in finding the perfect job that they want and not depend on the public transportation system schedule. Jerry is always looking for innovative ways that will help clients succeed in Supported Employment," said Howard.

oward also describes Miketish as very thorough with his clients through the entire process from intake to closure to follow-along. "Jerry has an amazing ability of putting together excellent situational assessments. He really rises above and beyond the call of duty throughout the process. He gives excellent results to the voc rehab counselor. Jerry is on a personal level with each and every one that he serves. He strives to meet each need that the client has," says Howard.