2001 was the first year that the academy was held at the Pryor campus. During this academy students were challenged to design and manufacture a product penned the Deskmate. Students were led through authentic learning projects that centered on the Deskmate. Students had to learn and apply manufacturing, design and drafting, electrical, business concepts. Students also participated in team building and esteem building activities including a ropes challenge course on the campus of Rogers State University in Claremore.