Mid-America Technology Center is recognizing two scholarships that honor the legacy of individuals who made a lasting impact on students and the skilled trades. The scholarships celebrate the lives of their namesakes, while also providing meaningful support to students as they begin their careers.
J.W. Baker Memorial Scholarship
J.W. Baker was a dedicated educator and veteran whose life was defined by service, resilience, and a commitment to helping others succeed. Born in Purcell, he attended school in Oklahoma City and graduated in 1944 before joining the United States Army. He served during the Korean War, where he sustained a life-altering injury in 1950.
He later retired from the Army on full disability and was awarded the Korean Service Medal, National Defense Medal, Purple Heart, and Bronze Star.
Following his military service, J.W. attended Oklahoma State University and began a long career in education. He taught auto mechanics at Purcell High School, Mid-America Technology Center and later at the USPS Training Center in Norman, where he retired as a senior instructor after 21 years of service.
J.W. was also a faithful member of First Baptist Church in Purcell from 1957 until his passing in 2017, serving as both a Sunday School teacher and deacon.
To honor his legacy, his wife Anna Baker established the J.W. Baker Memorial Scholarship. This scholarship supports students in the diesel program by helping them purchase the tools they need to begin their careers.
This year’s recipients include:
- Tyler Hood, Bridge Creek High School
- Jackson Smith, Noble High School
Ben Morris Trade Excellence Scholarship Ben Morris served as a teacher assistant in the Auto Body program at Mid-America Technology Center. He was passionate about helping students succeed and took pride in preparing them for the workforce. His encouragement and support made a lasting impact on those he worked with.
After his passing in 2026, Ben’s friends and family established the Ben Morris Trade Excellence Scholarship to continue his legacy of support and mentorship.
This year’s recipients include:
- Cristian Giron, Adult Student, Purcell (Auto Service)
- Brayde White, Stratford High School (Auto Service)
- Jazmine Henderson, Adult Student, Elmore City (Auto Body)
- Blake Gray, Bridge Creek High School (Auto Body)
Students receiving these scholarships used funds to purchase tools essential to their trade, working directly with their instructors to select the equipment they need for success.
The scholarships reflect the lasting influence of two individuals who believed in the power of hands-on education and the importance of supporting the next generation of skilled professionals.
