ATOKA, Okla. – The Kiamichi Tech Board of Education has appointed Kerwin Manion as the new Campus Director for the Atoka campus. In his new role, Manion will oversee campus operations, academic programs, workforce development initiatives and community engagement efforts while supporting Kiamichi Tech's mission of “Preparing People for Success.” 

Manion brings more than 23 years of educational experience to Kiamichi Tech, including 15 years as a math teacher and coach at Coalgate and Cottonwood schools and the past eight years as principal at Atoka High School. Throughout his career, he has built a reputation for strong leadership, effective communication, student advocacy and meaningful partnerships with staff, families and community members. 

"I am honored to join Kiamichi Tech and serve the communities that have meant so much to me throughout my career," said Manion. "Career and technical education creates life-changing opportunities for students and strengthens our local workforce. I look forward to working alongside our faculty, staff, business partners and community members to expand opportunities and help students and employers achieve their goals." 

A graduate of Kiowa Public Schools, Manion earned both his Bachelor of Science in Education and Master of Science in School Administration from East Central University. Throughout his leadership career, he has successfully overseen accreditation processes, school operations, budgeting, staff development and student achievement initiatives while fostering a positive culture focused on educational excellence. 

"Mr. Manion's leadership experience, commitment to student success, and deep roots in southeast Oklahoma make him an outstanding choice for this role," said Shelley Free, Kiamichi Tech Superintendent. "He understands the value of education, the importance of community partnerships and the critical role CareerTech plays in developing Oklahoma's workforce. We are excited to welcome him to the Kiamichi Tech team." 

As campus director, Manion will lead efforts to support student success, strengthen partnerships with area schools and employers and expand access to career training opportunities. He will also provide leadership for Kiamichi Tech's continued growth in Atoka and Coal counties, including future services and programs offered through the district's planned Coalgate site. 

Manion and his wife, Leslie, a counselor and school psychologist at Atoka Public Schools, have been married for 12 years and have three daughters, Jordan, Aniston, and Maddyn. Outside of their professional roles, the family enjoys ranching and spending time together at the beach.