OSU Institute of Technology will host its 228th commencement on Thursday, August 22, featuring two ceremonies to celebrate more than 350 graduates ready to enter the workforce.
Graduates from the School of Arts, Sciences & Health and the School of Transportation & Heavy Equipment will be honored at the 10 a.m. ceremony, followed by the School of Creative & Information Technologies and the School of Engineering & Construction Technologies at 2 p.m.
Williams President and CEO Alan Armstrong will be the keynote speaker for the 10 a.m. ceremony. Since taking the lead in 2011, Armstrong has expanded its operations to manage a third of all U.S. natural gas volumes. His impressive career includes various leadership roles within the company and active participation in numerous industry and community organizations. Armstrong's wealth of insights and experience is sure to inspire the graduating class as they enter the industry.
Amy Shank is Williams's Vice President of Safety and Operational Discipline and will serve as keynote speaker for the 2 p.m. commencement. Since joining Williams over 25 years ago, Shank has held various roles in engineering, project management, and leadership. She also chaired the coordinating subcommittee for the National Petroleum Council’s 2019 study on U.S. Oil and Natural Gas Transportation Infrastructure, highlighting the industry’s commitment to emissions reduction.
Graduates and guests will have the unique opportunity to gain insights from Alan Armstrong’s leadership in driving industry success and Amy Shank’s expertise in building a career grounded in safety and innovation. Their experiences offer valuable lessons for graduates entering the workforce.
“It is an honor for OSUIT to have Williams CEO Alan Armstrong and Vice President Amy Shank as our commencement speakers. We are proud of Williams's support of OSUIT and our energy programs within the School of Engineering & Construction Technologies. Alan’s and Amy’s leadership has been transformational for the energy sector, our students, and OSUIT graduates,” said Bob Firth, dean of the School of Engineering & Construction Technologies.
Williams, a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Tulsa, Oklahoma, is a leader in the energy sector, primarily focusing on natural gas processing and transportation. Founded in 1908, Williams has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry, expanding its operations over the decades to become one of the foremost names in energy infrastructure. The company’s extensive pipeline network and strategic acquisitions have solidified its position as a key player in the global energy market, with its common stock proudly listed as a component of the S&P 500.
The ceremonies will be held at Covelle Hall, on the south side of the OSUIT campus. Doors will open for visitors at 8:45 a.m. for the 10 a.m. ceremony and 12:45 p.m. for the 2 p.m. ceremony. For more information on OSUIT's commencement ceremonies, visit osuit.edu/commencement.