Oklahoma Business Roundtable Inc

Last week, the Oklahoma Business Roundtable wrapped up our final board and membership meetings of 2024. Here are some of the highlights: ?? Both Governor Kevin Stitt and Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell provided updates on their latest activities and initiatives, giving us a glimpse into what’s ahead for Oklahoma. ?? We had the chance to hear from Pat McFerron McFerron, President of Cole Hargrave Snodgrass & Associates, who shared data and insights from the annual Oklahoma Business Leaders Poll. This gave us a valuable look into how Oklahoma’s business owners and executives view the current business climate and will help guide the priorities of The State Chamber and the Oklahoma Business Roundtable moving forward. ?? Oklahoma Broadband Director Mike Sanders discussed the exciting opportunities brought by the state’s $1.3 billion broadband investment and how it will shape Oklahoma’s future. As we look ahead, the Roundtable remains committed to advancing Oklahoma’s economy and working together for a prosperous future.

Yesterday's Oklahoma Aerospace Forum brought together leaders from the state’s aviation, space, and defense sectors. The forum, hosted by Oklahoma ACES, featured a keynote address by Jeremy Leader Deputy Director of the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command. Key highlights included: The University of Oklahoma and Phase Four announced a partnership to develop in-space electric propulsion in Oklahoma. Representatives from Roundtable member companies such as American Airlines, Pratt & Whitney, and M International (Mint Turbines LLC) discussed the impactful work they’re doing in Oklahoma and why our state stands out as a great place to do business. Commercial aviation leaders also outlined how current and upcoming technologies are being leveraged to streamline preproduction and manufacturing processes, improving response times for aircraft maintenance. We also heard about some fantastic workforce development efforts underway. As one panelist put it, “I don’t know of another state that’s invested as much in aviation education as Oklahoma.” It’s exciting to see this commitment to preparing students for in-demand, high-paying careers.

One of our Oklahoma Business Roundtable members, Dr. Michelle Keylon and CEO of Francis Tuttle Technology Center, shares how their programs equip students with both technical and interpersonal skills to succeed in Oklahoma’s workforce. From certifications to licensures, Francis Tuttle is dedicated to preparing students for in-demand careers and lifelong growth. Read her insights below:

Earlier this week, we had the privilege of touring two dynamic manufacturing businesses in Broken Arrow and Tulsa alongside the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance team. Alfa Laval is a global leader in heat transfer, separation, and fluid handling products. Their innovative solutions are helping industries worldwide operate more efficiently, and their rapid growth is a testament to their success. Greenheck Group is a leading supplier of air movement, air control, and air conditioning equipment. Their cutting-edge technology and dedication to quality are driving significant expansion, making them a key player in Oklahoma’s manufacturing sector. Both companies are thriving and contributing to the state’s ongoing economic growth.

Yesterday we were proud to attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony for one of our newest Roundtable members, Pratt & Whitney as they unveiled their newly completed 845,000 square foot facility in Oklahoma City. This state-of-the-art facility will serve as a key hub for depot support of military engines maintained at Tinker Air Force Base and other locations, including the F-35, C-17, F-22, and more. Pratt & Whitney’s work continues to play a vital role in supporting the Warfigher and contributing to the state’s economic growth.

The Roundtable appreciates partnering with the State Chamber on the Business Leader’s poll. It provides good insight and a roadmap what state leaders, educators and businesses must do to move our state forward.

??Congratulations to our former Marketing Director John Reid on being inducted into the Select Oklahoma Roll of Honor! This award recognizes retiring economic developers who have made significant contributions to Oklahoma's economic development efforts. As a Roll of Honor member, John will continue to be a valuable resource for Select Oklahoma, sharing his expertise even in retirement. Well deserved John! ????

The Oklahoma Business Roundtable was proud to sponsor the Select Oklahoma Conference on Economic Development, a standout event with nearly 500 attendees focused on “Recruit, Retain & Recharge Oklahoma.” A special thank you to Roundtable member Brian Byrnes of the Oklahoma City Thunder for his outstanding keynote address, underscoring that “It’s bigger than basketball” and showcasing the Thunder’s impressive commitment to community investment. It was also great to hear Lieutenant Governor Matt Pinnell's updates on Oklahoma's new marketing and branding initiative, as well as ongoing efforts to drive business growth. The breakout sessions, led by economic development professionals from across the state were also timely & relevant. Kudos to the conference planning committee and event volunteers for their dedication and hard work in making this two-day event both impactful and memorable. #EconomicDevelopment #BusinessGrowth #CommunityImpact #RecruitRetainRecharge #BusinessLeadership #TheOklahomaStandard

The Oklahoma Business Roundtable is proud of the progress made since we first convened economic development leaders over a year ago. Yesterday marked a significant milestone with the first meeting of the Legislative Evaluation and Development (LEAD) Committee. This initiative, born from SB 1447 and HB 3252, aims to boost Oklahoma’s economy by attracting and retaining businesses through strategic collaboration with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce. Together, we are enhancing Oklahoma's competitiveness and fostering community development.

???? Thanks to the Oklahoma Business Roundtable Inc, Oklahoma had the ability to participate in the Farnborough International Airshow near London, UK. This event is crucial for the aerospace and defense industry to conduct business, sign contracts, and build global partnerships. Governor Kevin Stitt and Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell, and Leshia Pearson, Director of ACES at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce led the delegation, meeting with major aerospace companies and highlighting Oklahoma’s growing aerospace and defense sector. Key achievements: ? Representation from 15 Oklahoma aerospace and defense companies ? Over 70 meetings with potential business partners ? Significant exposure for Oklahoma businesses and institutions ?? For more --> https://lnkd.in/djtN2MHm We are proud to see Oklahoma making its mark on the global stage! #Aerospace #Defense #Oklahoma #FarnboroughAirshow #BusinessDevelopment