NextGen Under 30 Organization Recognizes Kiamichi Tech’s Irving Martinez with Statewide Award

Posted Date: 11/16/2021

WILBURTON, Okla. – Irving Martinez, Computer Information Technology Instructor at Kiamichi Tech - Poteau, was named one of Oklahoma’s 2021 NextGen Under 30 Award Recipients.

The NextGen Under 30 Leadership and Award Recognition Program was founded in 2010 and has received more than 8,000 nominations since its inception. The mission of NextGen Under 30 is to identify and honor young adult ‘over-achievers’ in Oklahoma and encourage them to keep their talents and abilities within the state.

Martinez, a 2012 Poteau High School graduate, was awarded in the Adult & Higher Education category, making him one of two individuals representing the CareerTech system among 2021 award recipients. The pool of award recipients is generated by nominations and candidacy application. Martinez was one of 300 individuals selected from more than 1,000 qualified applicants.

“Irving is a dynamic instructor that is committed to the success of his students,” said Shelley Free, Kiamichi Tech Superintendent. “As a Kiamichi Tech graduate, Irving is a true depiction of our organization growing our own. It is an honor to witness his growth as a leader in our organization and the state.”

The NextGen Under 30 organization recognizes and encourages the next generation of innovative, creative, and inspiring individuals who are known to push the boundaries of leadership and professionalism beyond their years. Recipients are selected from a host of selection criteria focused on professional achievement and contribution within their respective communities.

Martinez was recognized at the Oklahoma NextGen Under 30 awards ceremony on November 12 in Norman.