Susie McEachern-Lauer
Susie McEachern-Lauer (she/her) is a seasoned Health Careers Program Specialist with the Oklahoma Department of Career and Technology Education, bringing decades of experience in education, health, and workforce development. In her current role, she supports and coaches health science educators across Oklahoma, helping experienced industry professionals successfully transition into effective, student-centered teachers. Known for her emphasis on grit, growth mindset, and continuous improvement, Susie plays a key role in strengthening health careers education statewide.
Prior to her work at CareerTech, Susie served as a Health and Wellness Coordinator at Integris Bass Advanced Pierre Food Clinic, where she focused on coaching, learning strategies, and holistic wellness initiatives. Her professional background reflects a strong commitment to empowering others through education, mentorship, and practical skill development, with expertise spanning coaching, instructional strategies, professional development, and health education leadership.
Susie holds both a Master’s degree and a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education from Oklahoma State University. A lifelong learner, she continues to sharpen her skills through professional certifications in cultivating a growth mindset, creative ideation, and productivity strategies. Guided by a passion for helping educators grow from early-career survival to confident mastery, Susie is widely respected for her ability to inspire, support, and develop educators who shape the future of health care.
• Building a Better To-Do List
• Cultivating a Growth Mindset
• Oklahoma State University - BS
• Oklahoma State University - MS
• OKHSE Association
• OK ACTE
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to a lifelong commitment to education, mentorship, and community building. For more than three decades, beginning my career as an educator in 1991 and now serving as a health science education program specialist, I have been privileged to support and develop experienced industry professionals as they transition into effective, confident educators through our biannual new teacher academy. One of my most meaningful accomplishments is creating Camp Mc Susie, a six-year initiative focused on fostering connection and community for women and children. As a business owner in art and design, I also value creativity as a tool for growth. Ultimately, my greatest reward is witnessing teachers come into their own moving beyond survival to confident mastery by their third year in the classroom.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this field is to cultivate a growth mindset and not be afraid to take risks. Stay curious, remain open to learning, and trust your ability to grow into new challenges confidence and resilience are built through experience.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are growth, creativity, authenticity, and connection. I believe in continuous learning and finding potential where others may not yet see it—whether that’s in people, ideas, or even restoring something once considered “junk.” Outside of work, I enjoy kayaking, camping, and traveling, which keep me grounded and curious about the world, but my favorite hobby is restoring discarded items, as it reflects my belief in renewal, resilience, and the power of transformation.