Northwest Technology Center offers a variety of opportunities for students to get a head start on their careers while they are still in high school.

Ashlyn Conkling is one of those students that has taken advantage of what they offer. Conkling is a senior at Fairview High School and she selected her program because it is something that she has enjoyed doing and hopes to make it into a career.

“I am in the Cosmetology Program at Northwest Tech,” she said. “
I decided on this program because I’ve always enjoyed styling my doll’s hair and loved doing people’s hair as well. After graduating high school, I plan to stay here at the tech for one more semester to get my cosmetology license. After getting my license, I will attend Oklahoma State University or Southwestern Oklahoma State University to get a bachelor’s degree in business management. Eventually, my goal is to use that degree to own my own salon.”

Ashlyn first heard about tech from a family member but she says she decided to attend once her program was added.

“My aunt works here at the tech, but I never really thought about going until they recently added their cosmetology program, and that’s always been something I’ve thought about doing.”

At Fairview, Ashlyn is involved in the Future Farmers of America, and the National Honor Society, and she is also a class officer. She is also involved in athletics, but not in the role she has been in years past.

“I played basketball my first three years of high school,” she said. “But unfortunately due to two knee surgeries, a hip surgery, and needing another hip surgery, this year I decided to be the manager.”

While she is not able to compete this season, Conkling still gets to enjoy her favorite part of being in athletics.

“I think the thing I enjoy most about competing is the team aspect,” she stated. “Getting to hang out with all the girls is always a fun time.”