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Dr. Jim Strate moved to Enid in 1991 when he accepted the position of Superintendent of Autry Technology Center. During his tenure, enrollment has risen from 2,000 to over 13,000 served annually. Programs have been added, cutting-edge equipment has been purchased, and several additions have been made to the building to meet the growing training needs of area citizens and companies. Jim also began the Autry Tech Foundation which has raised over $300,000 for scholarships and loans for students needing financial assistance. Dr. Strate is a local leader in economic development efforts. Under his direction, Autry Tech plays a major role in the recruitment of new companies to Enid and the training of the new workforce. Dr. Strate was a founding board member of the Enid/Garfield County Economic Development Alliance and the Enid/Garfield County Workforce Development Board. His commitment to the community is also evidenced by his involvement on the Greater Enid Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, the Enid Rotary Club, and the Grand National Quail Hunt. Jim Strate is known throughout Oklahoma as a trailblazer for career and technical education. He has provided leadership that has significantly impacted the statewide system of technology centers. Dr. Strate has served as the President and Legislative Chair for the Oklahoma Technology Centers’ Superintendent’s Association, and played a major role in the Oklahoma Vocational Education Teacher Development System, the Oklahoma Vocational and Leadership Development Committee, and the Distance Education Policy Committee. Dr. Strate holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the Central Missouri State University and was awarded a Doctorate of Education by the University of Missouri. 2008: Through his dedication and persistence he secured state funding for the construction of Autry’s incubator, which bears his name as the James W. Strate Center for Business Development.