Next Level Leadership - Oklahoma Leaders Unplugged

Max McKnight

Max McKnight is a dynamic professional with a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a minor in Economics from Oklahoma State University.
With over 20 years of experience in Community Economic Development, Max has significantly collaborated with various chambers of commerce to drive growth and innovation. His passion for workforce development led him to the Oklahoma CareerTech system, where he served as an Industrial Coordinator at Metro Tech. He now excels as the Director of Workforce Training for the Oklahoma State Department of Career and Technology Education. In this pivotal role, he spearheads a dedicated team that empowers adults through education and advancing economic development initiatives that shape the community's future. Max McKnight is not just a leader; he is a catalyst for change and growth in the workforce landscape.

Raquel Gramillo

My name is Raquel Gramillo. I was born in Mexico then my family immigrated to the United Stated when I was 4 years old in search of better life and opportunities.  We settled in Enid, Oklahoma where I attended Enid Public Schools until I transitioned to homeschooling.
I ventured out into various jobs gaining experiences that helped me understand the workforce better. In 2020, I started my career in healthcare when I joined Great Salt Plains Health Center. I first started as a receptionist then was promoted to front desk supervisor before my one-year anniversary. Then I was promoted again a year later to Practice Administrator where I manage the business and operational side of our health centers in Enid. Despite not having a college education, this achievement demonstrated the hard work, commitment, and a willingness to learn can lead to significant opportunities. This opportunity also allowed me to find my passion for serving the community.Currently, I serve on the on the Steering Committee for the Rural Health Projects Family Resource Center. I’m a part of the current United Way NextGen Program. Recently, I founded the Garfield County Hispanic Coalition which focuses on supporting and uplifting the Hispanic Community in our area. Soon, I will begin my term as a board member for the CARE campus.I’m a Frontline Leadership Alumni. This course helped me grow and find the confidence I needed as a new leader to later be promoted into my current role.

Dan Schiedel

Dan Schiedel is currently in his 9th year as the Executive Director and CEO of United Way of NW Oklahoma, where he works with the community as a collaborator, connector, and convener and helps to raise funds & provide resources for 14 Enid nonprofit partner agencies that provide human services to those in need in Enid and NW Oklahoma. Before coming to Enid and to the United Way, Dan was in Public Broadcasting for nearly 30 years where he managed and produced diverse media projects for PBS stations in South Dakota, Missouri, Wyoming, and Oklahoma. He is a native of South Dakota and a graduate of the University of South Dakota where he received his Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts degrees in Journalism and Contemporary Media. Dan serves on numerous local and statewide boards and is a current member & past President of the Enid Rotary Club and past President of the Riveron Wyoming and Claremore Oklahoma Rotary clubs.

Dwight R. Hughes

Dwight’s legacy encompasses over 30 years in the Careertech sector. His most recent accomplishment being recognized for the Francis Tuttle Award for his exemplary dedication to our state’s education. As a prominent figure in various boards and councils, he contributes his expertise and insights to foster growth and development in the CTE landscape. Steering initiatives that aim to bridge gaps and foster innovation in career and technical education. Dwight's dedication to his community and the field of career and technical education is further evidenced by his involvement with The Oklahoma Academy Board of Directors, the Autry Tech Foundation, the Grand National Quail Club, and the Oakwood Country Club. As a distinguished graduate of Leadership Oklahoma Class XXIII, Dwight R. Hughes continues to inspire with his unwavering dedication to fostering a brighter, more prosperous future through education and community engagement.

Brady Sidwell

An entrepreneurial business owner and commodity broker, with extensive experience in global and regional agribusiness. He is an active community member for Rotary, and Ambucs, an advisory board member for CSCF, a graduate of Class 31 of Leadership Oklahoma, and on the Board of Governors for OSU Foundation.

David Woods

As CEO of Magellan Executive Partners, David is passionate about helping CEOs and owners grow their organizations, their leaders, and their team. David is an expert in strategic thinking, executive development and executive coaching. David’s greatest attribute is the deep level of trust and friendship he builds with those he has the opportunity to know and serve.
Notably, David is the former CEO of Ditch Witch® Construction Equipment. With more than 1600 employees and 140 dealers in 40 countries, the company is the world’s largest manufacturer of underground construction equipment.

Jennifer Douma

Jennifer, has a 25-year legacy in environmental remediation. She has been part of Whiterock Resources since its inception in 2014 with partner Bryan Fischer. Their core values embody a unique blend of Integrity, Work Ethic, Professional Excellence, and Loyalty. Through strategic acquisitions, WR have seen phenomenal growth and Jennifer's role as CEO has propelled Whiterock to new heights. Jennifer's impact stretches beyond business; she is on the VAFB Restoration Advisory Board, a LGE alumnus, Junior Welfare League of Enid supporter and past president of YWCA. A true advocate for learning and development, Jennifer instills a culture of growth within Whiterock. Recently completing Pat Lencioni’s 6 types of Working Genius for her team, her commitment to continuous improvement elevates both individuals and the company as a whole.

Lt Col Stuart Fillmore

Lt. Col. Fillmore, a dynamic leader with an impressive background in special operations and healthcare! His incredible journey has taken him across the globe—from the rugged terrains of Africa and Afghanistan to the vibrant landscapes of Germany and right here in the U.S where he served as the Commander of the 71st Medical Group at Vance Air Force Base Enid, where his passion for leadership and commitment to helping others truly shone through.
One of his groundbreaking ideas for Autry was the "From the War Room to the Board Room" series, designed to bridge military leadership principles with the business world. This innovative initiative covered a range of leadership topics that empowered professionals in all fields. Now residing in sunny Florida with his family, Stuart continues to make waves as the Division Chief for Special Ops and Medical Readiness.

Dudley Darrow

Dudley brings an impressive 20 years of dynamic experience in the field of education, igniting passion and excellence at every turn! His journey began on the grand stage of the NAIA National Championship, where his love for football blossomed into a remarkable coaching career that has inspired athletes across our great state.
In 2005, Dudley took the helm as a coach at Enid Public Schools, where he not only shaped young athletes but also laid the groundwork for his transition into educational administration. With a relentless pursuit of knowledge, he earned his doctorate in Educational Leadership, stepping into the role of Superintendent at Chisholm Public Schools, where he made a significant impact.In 2023, Dudley returned to Enid Public Schools, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a fresh vision for leadership. A true advocate for growth and development, he has recently introduced innovative initiatives like the Gallup engagement survey and Clifton Strengths coaching, empowering his leadership faculty to reach new heights. Dudley’s commitment to fostering a culture of excellence and engagement is transforming the educational landscape, making him a true leader in the field!

Colonel Nekitha Little

An accomplished Air Force professional with a long history in installation and operations. She is currently responsible for Vance's flying operations and base operations contracts. She is passionate about developing leadership skills within her support group and helping her team be the best leaders.