Cuba Development Group President Doug Lasley hosted a luncheon on Sept. 25 at Cherry Rose Banquet Hall. Over 30 local business owners and educators, including R-2 District Superintendent Dr. Scott Davidson, were provided lunch by Frisco's Grill & Pub.

State Technical College of Missouri President Dr. Shawn Strong and Vice President of Technical Relations Shannon Grus gave a presentation about the school’s resources and facilities. They also provided data showing the success rate of their students finding jobs.

Strong said that career fairs are mandatory for State Tech students and “they’ve become the place to be.” He added that they’ve been attended by various Missouri officials, including Governor Mike Kehoe.   

“Our job is to produce a graduate, and nothing will stand in the way,” Strong said.

Strong said that the school purchased Osage Golf Course in 2020 and is the home to the school’s Commercial Turf and Grounds program, which has produced World Series and Super Bowl winning grounds crew members.

He said that the school’s only issue is getting students invested in two-year schools.

“Our problem isn’t capacity; it’s getting students interested and involved,” he said.

Strong and Grus emphasized the success rate of their students in their future jobs.

“Our students make more money after 10 years of graduating than all Missouri schools besides the University of Missouri,” Strong said.

“We tell our students that you will make more money than your parents,” Grus added.

The attendees then asked questions about internships and other resources the school provides.

The event ended with attendees introducing themselves before Lasley thanked everyone for attending and Sullivan Bank for sponsoring the event.