Pioneer Technology Center (PTC) appointed a new board member Tuesday, August 11th. Laurence Beliel was interviewed, along with another candidate, and sworn in at the tech center’s monthly Board of Education meeting. He will fill the open seat vacated by Larry Buck who retired last month.
Beliel has over 28 years of industry experience. From 2001 to 2008, he served as the Industrial Coordinator for PTC and then joined the Ponca City Development Authority as the Director of Business Retention and Expansion. He’s held this position for the last 12 years.
A Blackwell High School graduate, Beliel attended the Machine Tool program at PTC. He went on to be employed by Smith International, Marconi Precision Aerostructures, and the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education.
“Laurence will be a valuable addition to our dynamic board. He brings the first-hand experience not only as a past employee but as a graduate of one of our programs. He is a true Pioneer Tech success story,” said Traci Thorpe, Superintendent/CEO. “I’m excited to add his knowledge and expertise to our leadership; we appreciate his willingness to serve his community in this way.”
A member of the Governor’s Economic Development team, Beliel is a past Board President of the Oklahoma Renewable Energy Council and is currently the Vice-Chair of the Kaw Lake Educational Foundation. He has served on numerous advisory committees with a focus on workforce education.
Beliel and his wife, Rhonda, have been married for 27 years; they have five children and ten grandchildren. For more information about Pioneer Tech and its programs visit their website at www.pioneertech.edu or call 762-8336.