GOING PRO MEET THE CLASS OF 2026
At Owensboro Community & Technical College, success doesn’t follow just one path—and
that’s exactly the point.
Some students are launching careers. Others are continuing their education. Some are starting over, while others are discovering their direction for the first time. No matter the journey, OCTC is committed to helping students find their path—and giving them the tools, confidence, and support to move forward.
The Going Pro celebration honors that moment of transition. It recognizes that there are many paths to success—and each one is worth celebrating.
The Class of 2026 is filled with stories of determination, resilience, and purpose. Here are just a few of the students who are Going Pro.
Terryn Clyburn: A Journey of Reinvention
Terryn Clyburn is Going Pro as she completes her Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology with a focus in Computer Programming at OCTC.
A graduate of Ballard High School, Terryn’s path to this moment has been anything but traditional. Before returning to the classroom, she successfully owned and operated a body waxing business in Louisville. But with a desire for a calmer, more stable life for herself and her young child, she made the bold decision to relocate to Owensboro—and to begin again.
That transition sparked a new direction.
While navigating personal change, Terryn discovered a passion for computer programming and made the commitment to return to college. Like many students, the journey came with challenges—balancing coursework, developing effective study habits, and managing multiple responsibilities. But through persistence, she found her rhythm and grew both academically and personally.
Looking ahead, Terryn plans to transfer to Western Kentucky University to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Technology, with a goal of entering the field of Healthcare IT.
Her story is a reminder that finding your path sometimes means having the courage to create a new one.
Isai Amaya: Purpose Driven by Family
Isai Amaya is Going Pro as he completes his Nursing program at OCTC and begins his career with Deaconess Health System.
A devoted husband and father of four, Isai’s journey is rooted in hard work and a deep commitment to building a better future for his family. While balancing school, work, and family life, he remained focused on his goal—never losing sight of why he started.
He credits his wife as his greatest source of support, standing beside him through long nights and difficult moments.
Looking ahead, Isai plans to continue his education by pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
His journey reflects the power of purpose—and the impact of a strong support system.
Sondra Perez: Strength in Every Step
Sondra Perez is Going Pro as she earns her Associate in Applied Science Degree in Nursing from OCTC and begins her career with Owensboro Health.
With more than 15 years of experience in healthcare and a family of eight children, Sondra’s journey is one of extraordinary resilience.
Just two months into nursing school, she took emergency custody of a five-week-old baby with significant medical needs—instantly expanding her responsibilities while continuing her education. Balancing school, caregiving, and family life was no small task, but she never gave up.
She credits her children, instructors, and classmates for helping her stay motivated and supported throughout the journey.
Looking ahead, Sondra plans to pursue her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.
Her story is a powerful example of perseverance—and the strength it takes to keep going, no matter the circumstances.
Baylie Mitchell: Growing Through Experience
Baylie Mitchell is Going Pro as she completes her studies in Radiography at OCTC and prepares to begin her career in healthcare.
A lifelong Owensboro resident, Baylie took advantage of dual credit opportunities to get an early start on her education. Through her program, she learned to translate classroom knowledge into real-world clinical practice—gaining confidence, adaptability, and strong time management skills along the way.
She credits her classmates and instructors for creating a supportive environment that helped her succeed.
Looking ahead, Baylie plans to expand her skills by pursuing additional certifications in imaging modalities, including CT.
Her journey reflects the steady growth and hands-on learning that define OCTC’s approach to education.
Caden Polites: Driven to Build and Solve
Caden Polites is Going Pro as he launches his career with Moore Automotive Group after earning his degree in Automotive Technology from OCTC.
With a lifelong passion for working on vehicles, Caden turned his interests into a career path. Even while commuting an hour each way to campus, he found ways to grow—using that time to reflect, problem-solve, and strengthen his understanding of the field.
His hard work paid off. He secured a position in his field before graduating and continues to build on his experience through certifications and hands-on work.
Caden’s journey highlights how skill, dedication, and opportunity come together to create a clear path forward.
Jacob Simon: Confidence Through Opportunity
Jacob Simon is Going Pro as he graduates from the Tech X program at OCTC and prepares to serve in the United States Marine Corps.
Inspired by his father’s path, Jacob entered the program to gain real-world skills and certifications—but what he gained was even more valuable: confidence.
Through the flexibility of Tech X, he was able to complete early while continuing to build his skillset and prepare for his future. Along the way, he discovered that he was more capable than he once believed.
Looking ahead, Jacob is excited to apply what he has learned as he begins his military service and continues to grow as a lifelong learner.
His story is a reminder that sometimes finding your path starts with believing that you belong on it.
Many Paths. One Purpose.
The stories of these students are different—but they share a common thread.
Each represents a unique path shaped by challenges, growth, and determination. At OCTC, that’s what success looks like. Whether students are entering the workforce, transferring to a university, or serving their country, they are prepared to take the next step with confidence.
Going Pro is more than a celebration—it’s a recognition that there are many paths to success, and every one of them matters.
And for the Class of 2026, the journey is just getting started.
Bernie Hale is Director of Marketing and Communications for OCTC. She holds a Master's degree in Public Administration from WKU, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Business from Brescia University. She lives in Owensboro with her husband Jeff, their dog Bennie, and they have three grands.
