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Oklahoma's first Aerospace Week begins Monday, April 1, making it the perfect time to highlight the aerospace and aviation sector's significant contributions to Oklahoma's economy.
Oklahoma Aerospace Week highlights the role these industries play in creating jobs, fostering innovation, and driving economic growth across Oklahoma City. Home to more than 290 private companies, OKC has seen a 23% increase in civil aerospace employment over the past five years. From Boeing and Pratt & Whitney to Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman, we're thrilled that these companies call OKC home.
Data shows that the economic impact of civil and military aviation amounts to $43.7 billion each year, representing a substantial economic impact. For example, Will Rogers World Airport contributes $4 billion annually to the local and state economy. The impact was quite large, but Due to terminal expansion And demand for air travel is back to pre-coronavirus levels.
Tinker Air Force Base is the largest single employer in Oklahoma, with 26,948 employees. The U.S. Air Force Sustainment Center at TAFB manages and repairs engines for the U.S. Air Force and is the primary maintenance center for bombers and tanker aircraft. This is key to supporting and maintaining the U.S. Air Force's readiness and long-range strike capabilities. The base contributes more than $6.4 billion annually to the local economy and is the cornerstone of local industry.
City leaders are dedicated to ensuring that Oklahoma City is an attractive and supportive environment for the aerospace industry, and as we look to the future, events like Aerospace Week will It acts as a catalyst for sustainable growth and development of industry.
In collaboration with the Oklahoma State Department of Aeronautics and Space, the Oklahoma City Innovation District will host a symposium on April 2 featuring prominent experts and industry leaders in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and augmented reality. Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine will be the keynote speaker. Learn more about the Aerospace Innovative Training Symposium online.
Engaging the next generation of leaders. Scissortail Park, in partnership with the Oklahoma City Innovation District, will host the already annual “Taking Flight” event on Saturday, April 6th from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Love's Travel Stop Great Lawn. – Adding an interactive aerospace STEAM booth to the Wind and Kite Festival. Aerospace, Oklahoma City's fastest growing sector, is the community's largest employer and economic driver. We are grateful to local government leaders and higher education institutions for ensuring a business-friendly environment and a strong talent pipeline to sustain and energize our industry.
Kenton Tsoodle is the president of the Oklahoma City Economic Development Alliance.
