Workforce & Economic Development is physically located in the Visual Communications building on the OSUIT campus. You can contact WFED by phone at 918-293-5160, fax at 918-293-4633, or email at wfed@okstate.edu.
Mailing address:
OSU Institute of Technology
Workforce & Economic Development
1801 East 4th Street
Okmulgee, OK 74447
OSU Institute of Technology
Workforce & Economic Development
1801 East 4th Street
Okmulgee, OK 74447
Anna Dinsmore-Hearn
Anna Hearn, Director for Workforce & Economic Development at Oklahoma State University
Institute of Technology (OSUIT), has over a decade of experience spearheading workforce
development initiatives. Anna began her career at OSUIT in 2013 as the Administrative
Coordinator for a Department of Labor funded grant (Oklahoma Greenovation). Upon completion
of the grant in 2015, Anna transitioned to a Customized Training Coordinator and assisted
industry partners with developing customized training plans. In November 2018, Anna
was asked to take on the role of Grant Writer for OSUIT and, since that time, has
submitted numerous grant proposals and secured $13 million in funding. In early 2023,
Anna took on an additional role as a Workforce Advancement Specialist and works closely
with the industry to assess training needs and develop training plans. Anna has built
strong, positive relationships with several industry partners, Technology Centers,
and Tribes, including ONEOK, McAlester Army Ammunition Plan, OKTravel, Tinker AFB,
The Railroad Commission of Texas, The Cherokee Nation, The Muscogee (Creek) Nation,
The Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes, and various Technology Centers across the state.
Anna received a Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership (Workforce
& Adult Education) from OSU-Tulsa in 2021. She also received a Graduate Certificate
in Workforce & Adult Education from OSU-Tulsa.
She is committed to leveraging her expertise in workforce development to support justice-involved
individuals in their journey toward successful reintegration into society. Anna believes
in the transformative power of education and employment in breaking cycles of incarceration
and fostering positive community reintegration.
In addition to her professional endeavors, Anna finds joy and fulfillment from her
family life. Together with her husband Tyler, she is nurturing three strong-willed
daughters, who exhibit a notable inclination toward justice and a desire to help others.
Fran Colombin
Fran joined the OSU Institute of Technology's Adult Education team as an evening instructor
in 1998, while at the same time working full time with Okmulgee Middle School students
as a science teacher. She became the Director of both the Adult Education and M-Power
programs in 2015. Fran currently oversees Adult Education programs in Okmulgee, Dewar,
Henryetta, Okemah, Seminole, Wagoner, and Wetumka, and teaches the Adult Education
day classes at OSUIT/Okmulgee.
Fran is a life-long instructor with more than 45 years of teaching experience.
Brenda Walker
Brenda Walker is the Financial Analyst Specialist for Workforce & Economic Development
at OSUIT, where she has brought her expertise and dedication for many years. In her
role, Brenda is responsible for analyzing financial data, managing budgets, and providing
strategic insights to support the institution’s financial health. Her work ensures
that OSUIT's financial operations are both efficient and compliant with relevant regulations.
Brenda’s extensive tenure at OSUIT highlights her deep commitment to the institution's financial stability and growth. Her analytical skills and thorough understanding of financial management contribute significantly to the successful planning and execution of the institution’s financial strategies. Brenda's long-standing presence at OSUIT underscores her invaluable role in maintaining the financial integrity and operational effectiveness of the institution.
Katie Quillin
Katie Quillin is a dedicated professional at OSUIT who has made significant contributions
to the institution's student support services. Her commitment to helping students
has earned her recognition at the highest levels. In December 2023, Quillin was honored with the prestigious Governor's Commendation
Award, acknowledging her outstanding contributions to OSUIT and its students. This accolade highlights her exceptional service and dedication to the university
community. Quillin is involved with OSUIT's MPower program, which provides vital assistance to
students pursuing their education at the institution. Her role in this program demonstrates her commitment to supporting students and
helping them overcome obstacles to achieve their educational goals. With a strong belief that every person deserves a second chance, Quillin approaches
her work with a customer and student-oriented mindset. Her dedication to this philosophy has likely contributed to her success in supporting
OSUIT students and her recognition with the Governor's Commendation Award. Through her work at OSUIT, Katie Quillin continues to make a positive impact on students'
lives, embodying the university's commitment to providing high-quality education and
support services.
Joe Stephens
Joe Stephens is the Logistics Coordinator and Safety Training Instructor at OSUIT,
where he has contributed his expertise for many years. In his role, Joe oversees
the logistical aspects of various training programs and ensures that all operations
run smoothly. His responsibilities include coordinating resources, managing schedules,
and addressing any logistical challenges that arise.
As a Safety Training Instructor, Joe is dedicated to equipping students and staff
with the knowledge and skills needed to maintain a safe working environment. His
comprehensive safety training programs are designed to meet industry standards and
address specific needs within the institution.
Joe’s long tenure at OSUIT reflects his deep commitment to the institution's mission.
His extensive experience and proactive approach have made him an integral part of
the team, ensuring that both logistical operations and safety protocols are handled
with the utmost efficiency and effectiveness.
Brandon Dinsmore
Brandon Dinsmore serves as the Tribal Outreach & Workforce Programs Specialist at OSUIT. As a passionate Cherokee citizen, Brandon is dedicated to helping under-represented
individuals and communities secure better futures through innovative training programs
and job placement. Brandon is dedicated to addressing historical trauma, systemic
racism, financial inequality, and other barriers to employment that affect marginalized
communities. His expertise lies in creating opportunities that combine workforce
development with emerging technologies in out-of-the-box ways to support self-determination
within the tribes.
At OSUIT, Brandon is an integral part of the Workforce & Economic Development team, contributing to the institution's mission of providing high-quality technical education and workforce training. His commitment to fostering positive change and empowering individuals through education and employment opportunities makes him a valuable asset to both OSUIT and the communities it serves.
At OSUIT, Brandon is an integral part of the Workforce & Economic Development team, contributing to the institution's mission of providing high-quality technical education and workforce training. His commitment to fostering positive change and empowering individuals through education and employment opportunities makes him a valuable asset to both OSUIT and the communities it serves.
