VeloCity - March 2026

MARCH 2026 • OKCCHAMBER.COM

MOMENTUM BUILDS FOR OKLAHOMA’S LIFE SCIENCES SECTOR

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MOMENTUM BUILDS FOR OKLAHOMA’S LIFE SCIENCES SECTOR

Life Science Oklahoma (LSOK) is seeing growing engagement across the state’s bioscience community, with increased membership, new partnerships and national visibility helping position Oklahoma as an emerging hub for life science innovation. Over the past year, LSOK membership has grown by 25%, reflecting increased collaboration among researchers, startups, health systems and industry leaders working to expand Oklahoma’s life sciences ecosystem. The organization continues to connect companies with resources, industry partners and opportunities to advance research and commercialization. One of the year’s major milestones was the launch of LSOK’s inaugural Catalyst event, which brought together more than 100 attendees from across the life sciences and technology sectors. The event featured keynote remarks from Microsoft life sciences and AI leader Kathy VanEnkevort and included a CEO roundtable with 30 local executives focused on the intersection of artificial intelligence and healthcare. LSOK also strengthened Oklahoma’s presence on the national stage through participation in the BIO International Convention, where the organization hosted a networking breakfast for industry professionals and site selectors interested in the state’s growing bioscience capabilities. Three Oklahoma representatives also utilized partner passes to schedule meetings with companies and investors during the conference.

Attendees network during Bioscience on Tap 2024.

In addition to industry engagement, LSOK is helping deliver tangible value to member companies. Through the organization’s participation in the Bio Business Solutions purchasing program, Oklahoma companies collectively saved more than $2.7 million on laboratory supplies through the Avantor program alone. The initiative allows companies to access discounted equipment, materials and services, helping emerging firms reduce operating costs while scaling their research and development efforts. LSOK’s work over the past year has also included facilitating industry panels and webinars, hosting community events such as Bioscience on Tap, and supporting new partnerships across the state’s research and startup ecosystem. The organization also helped connect local AI company General Genomics with a partnership that enabled the company to launch its platform on the Microsoft marketplace.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen real momentum across Oklahoma’s life science ecosystem, from growing collaboration among research institutions to increased interest from industry partners and investors,” said Michelle Gregory, president and CEO of Life Science Oklahoma. “Life Science Oklahoma’s role is to continue building those connections and elevating the state’s strengths nationally. The next phase for LSOK is about translating that momentum into measurable growth by supporting innovation, strengthening our workforce pipeline and positioning Oklahoma as a competitive hub for life science research and biomanufacturing.” As Oklahoma’s bioscience sector continues to grow, LSOK is working to expand its membership and partnerships, inviting companies, researchers and community leaders to get involved in advancing the state’s life science ecosystem.

Saige was out of options. THEN SHE FOUND ACADEMIC HEALTH.

LEADERSHIP NOTES

Built for What Comes Next In recent weeks, many in our community have been reflecting on Oklahoma City’s role in the energy economy and what the next chapter of growth will look like for our region. Moments like this naturally spark conversation, but they also give us a chance to step back and look at the broader foundation that has shaped our progress. Energy is central to our city’s story. The companies, workers, and innovators who built and continue to lead this industry have defined Oklahoma City’s economy and identity for generations. That influence remains an important part of our business community and will continue to play a vital role in our region’s future. At the same time, Oklahoma City has spent decades intentionally strengthening and diversifying its economic base. Growth across sectors including aerospace, biosciences, advanced manufacturing, logistics and professional services has expanded the opportunities available to businesses and workers alike. Public investments through initiatives such as MAPS also position our community for long-term success. Major projects underway, including construction of a new NBA arena and a multi-purpose stadium, reflect Oklahoma City’s continued commitment to investing in both economic opportunity and quality of life. Today, Oklahoma City remains one of the most affordable large metropolitan areas in the country, offering a competitive business climate and a workforce prepared to support continued growth in every sector. These advantages, combined with a spirit of collaboration that has long defined our region, will continue to attract investment and create opportunities. The Chamber remains focused on supporting policies and initiatives that strengthen our economy and position Oklahoma City for what comes next. With your continued partnership, we will keep building on the foundation that has helped our community grow, adapt, and thrive.

CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO

READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH

Power investment supports job growth at Tinker Air Force Base VELOCITYOKC.COM/ CHRISTYSPICK

GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER AND TULSA REGIONAL CHAMBER UNITE IN WASHINGTON D.C.

UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.)

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber will join the Tulsa Regional Chamber for a historic, first-ever joint advocacy trip to Washington, D.C. April 14 – 16, 2026, bringing together business and civic leaders from across Oklahoma to champion pro- business policies and strengthen the state’s voice at the federal level.

APR 14–16 (TUE–THU) DC Visit The Mayflower Hotel Time TBD MAY 13 (WED) Chamber Forum Petroleum Club 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. JUN 17 (WED) Chamber Forum Petroleum Club 11:30 a.m.–1 p.m. JUN 18 (THU) InternOKC Skirvin Hotel 8:30 a.m.– 4 p.m.

The 2026 DC Visit marks a new chapter in statewide collaboration as the two chambers work together to engage federal policymakers on priorities that support Oklahoma’s economic growth. Key topics will include infrastructure investment, defense and aviation expansion, workforce development and policies that create new opportunities for businesses and communities across the state. “By joining forces, Oklahoma’s business community can present a stronger, more unified message in Washington,” Mike Jackson, senior vice president of government relations and policy said. “This partnership reflects a shared commitment to regional cooperation and to advancing policies that benefit our entire state.” The visit will begin April 14 with arrivals and an international embassy reception bringing together chamber members, congressional staff and diplomatic guests. The following day will feature joint policy briefings and discussions with federal leaders at the Library of Congress, highlighting issues critical to each cities continued economic momentum. That evening, attendees will gather for a reception at the United States Botanic Garden alongside members of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation and key federal stakeholders. On April 16, the Oklahoma City delegation will participate in separate, focused policy discussions centered on defense, aviation, transportation and infrastructure priorities before concluding the program at midday. The three-day event is expected to bring together more than 100 business and civic leaders, along with congressional staff and federal officials. Jackson says the joint visit will amplify Oklahoma’s presence on Capitol Hill and strengthen relationships that help drive economic development statewide. Registration for the 2026 DC Visit is $1,000 and includes official program events, most meals and select transportation. Airfare and hotel accommodation are not included. For more information or to register, contact register@okcchamber.com.

JUL 15 (WED) State of the City OKC Convention Center 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. AUG 5 (WED) State of the Schools National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Make plans now to attend the next Chamber Forum on Wednesday, May 13, focused on the June ballot that could set future of minimum wage policy in Oklahoma and have significant impacts on businesses, workers and the state’s economy. Across the country, states are evaluating how best to support wage growth while maintaining strong job creation and economic competitiveness. Oklahoma is now part of that conversation. The forum will bring together economists, business leaders and policy experts to discuss the upcoming vote on increasing minimum wage, including the role of inflation adjustments and the potential long-term effects on employers, workers and the broader economy. Many policymakers and employers agree that the current federal minimum wage of $7.25 no longer reflects today’s labor market. At the same time, proposed policy changes, particularly automatic increases tied to national urban wages, have prompted discussions about long-term wage growth, hiring and the sustainability of small businesses. OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER TO HOST MAY FORUM ON THE FUTURE OF MINIMUM WAGE IN OKLAHOMA

Panelists are expected to explore several key questions, including how the labor market has already influenced wage growth in Oklahoma, what economic effects automatic wage escalators could have, how potential changes may impact small businesses and workforce participation, and how policies can support both economic mobility and a strong business climate. The conversation aims to provide context and insight as Oklahoma leaders consider approaches that encourage higher wages while ensuring policies remain sustainable and supportive of long-term economic growth. The discussion will take place from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Petroleum Club, located on the 34th floor at 100 N. Broadway Ave. in downtown Oklahoma City. For more information or to register, contact register@okcchamber.com.

Oklahoma City’s continued growth is not the result of a single industry surge — it is the product of intentional economic diversification that is strengthening the region’s long-term stability and competitiveness. According to the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s 2026 Economic Outlook, 121 companies were actively considering relocation or expansion in the region as of December 2025. These prospects span multiple targeted sectors, signaling sustained national interest in Oklahoma City as a business destination and reinforcing the metro’s ability to compete in a shifting economic landscape. While advanced manufacturing represents approximately 70% of active recruitment prospects, aerospace and distribution projects also demonstrated strong interest throughout the year. Companies evaluating Oklahoma City include advanced manufacturers, aerospace firms, logistics providers and distribution operations seeking centrally located access to national supply chains. This range of recruitment activity reflects a broader shift — one that positions the region beyond reliance on any single dominant industry and underscores the strength of its multi-sector economy. In 2025 alone, 113 Chamber-assisted companies announced plans to create 3,406 jobs and invest more than $4.45 billion in capital across the region. These investments span multiple industries and reflect continued confidence in Oklahoma City’s workforce capacity, infrastructure systems and growing industrial inventory. They also demonstrate that employers view the region as a long-term growth platform rather than a short-term opportunity. Job growth across the broader economy tells a similar story. Oklahoma City added 6,600 nonfarm jobs in 2025, representing a 0.9% increase in total employment. ECONOMIC DIVERSIFICATION SUPPORTS OKC’S LONG- TERM GROWTH

Gains were spread across construction, education and health services, financial activities, and leisure and hospitality — sectors tied directly to population growth, infrastructure investment and rising service demand. This distributed growth reinforces economic resilience and reflects an expanding, balanced regional economy. Oklahoma City’s continued population growth and infrastructure investment have further strengthened its competitive position. Employers requiring access to transportation networks and regional distribution hubs continue to evaluate the metro for expansion. The city’s central U.S. location, interstate connectivity and growing industrial inventory remain key assets for companies seeking efficient logistics access to national markets. While some sectors, including manufacturing and professional and business services, experienced modest declines, overall employment growth remained positive across the metro. The ability to attract and

grow employers across multiple industries helps reduce exposure to industry-specific downturns and supports greater long-term economic stability. One of the region’s strongest indicators of economic health remains its labor market. Unemployment averaged 3.2% in 2025 and has remained below 4% for more than four consecutive years. Sustained low unemployment, combined with ongoing recruitment interest across manufacturing, aerospace and distribution, reflects continued employer confidence in Oklahoma City’s workforce and overall business climate. Long-term development initiatives such as MAPS 4 play a critical role in sustaining this diversification strategy. Investments in infrastructure, quality of life amenities and workforce attraction continue to enhance the metro’s competitive position and help ensure that Oklahoma City remains an attractive option for companies considering relocation or expansion.

As Oklahoma City competes nationally for new business investment, diversification remains central to its long-term strategy. Attracting employers across a variety of industries supports job creation, strengthens the regional tax base and reinforces the city’s position as a resilient, growth-oriented economy prepared for the next chapter of opportunity.

Oklahoma City continues to increase its national visibility through coordinated public relations efforts designed to position the region as a prime location for investment and visitation. In 2025, the Chamber’s efforts generated more than 450 earned media placements, reaching an estimated audience of more than 608 million people across business, travel and industry publications. National coverage appeared in outlets including Forbes, USA Today, Bloomberg Business of Sports, Essence, HGTV and Chief Executive Magazine. These placements introduced Oklahoma City to audiences responsible for selecting meeting locations, evaluating event destinations and considering future development opportunities. Placements throughout the year highlighted infrastructure investment, workforce capacity and Oklahoma City’s growing role as a host city for national and international events. Coverage tied to meetings recruitment, economic development and large-scale events appeared in travel, business and industry publications reaching audiences evaluating potential markets for expansion or exploring Oklahoma City as a visitor destination. Several placements resulted directly from national media tours and hosted journalist visits coordinated throughout the year. In June, placements tied to a national media tour reached more than 100 million NATIONAL MEDIA COVERAGE EXPANDS OKLAHOMA CITY’S VISIBILITY

readers through coverage in Forbes, Essence and the Bloomberg Business of Sports podcast. “National media coverage helps us introduce Oklahoma City to audiences who may not be familiar with the scale of our growth or the strength of our destination assets,” said Lindsay Vidrine, the Chamber’s chief marketing officer. “Sharing stories about infrastructure investment, quality of life and industry momentum helps position the region as both a competitive business environment and an appealing place to visit.” National exposure resulting from these efforts can support recruitment activity by reinforcing Oklahoma City’s business climate. As companies and organizations compare potential markets, increased national visibility can help shape perceptions of Oklahoma City’s competitiveness. Sustained national visibility helps ensure Oklahoma City remains part of the conversation as companies, organizations and visitors evaluate potential markets. "Sharing stories about infrastructure investment, quality of life and industry momentum helps position the region as both a competitive business environment and an appealing place to visit.” - Lindsay Vidrine

A new public art installation has been unveiled in downtown Oklahoma City as Cloud Embrace officially opened Wednesday during a ribbon cutting ceremony in Bricktown. Located in United Way Plaza near Reno Avenue and Walnut Avenue along the Bricktown Canal, the large- scale sculpture was commissioned by Visit Oklahoma City and Inasmuch Foundation and gifted to the City of Oklahoma City as part of the plaza’s recent reimagining. Designed by Creative Machines, the immersive installation stands approximately 24 feet tall and 40 feet wide. Its open structure allows visitors to walk inside the sculpture, creating opportunities to experience the artwork from multiple perspectives while also serving as a new gathering and photo destination in the district. The sculpture features perforated steel panels finished in vibrant colors that cast shifting patterns of light and shadow throughout the day. At night, integrated color- changing LED lighting transforms the installation into a glowing visual centerpiece along the canal. Creative Machines President and Artistic Director Joseph O’Connell said the design was inspired by Oklahoma City’s expansive skies. CLOUD EMBRACE SCULPTURE UNVEILED IN BRICKTOWN

“This immersive art experience was inspired by Oklahoma City’s incredible skies which frequently demonstrate how clouds are a canvas for light and color,” O’Connell said. Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, said the installation reflects the way public art can support activity and connection in the city’s entertainment districts. “Business, art and entertainment intersect in our vibrant districts across OKC,” Gillenwater said. “We hope Cloud Embrace brings renewed energy and interest to Lower Bricktown as visitors and locals meet up with friends and explore the area.” The installation was funded through a combination of federal American Rescue Plan Act dollars and an Inasmuch Foundation grant.

HOUSING INVESTMENTS EXPAND AFFORDABLE

The development included $1.5 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds from the City of Oklahoma City, along with Low-Income Housing Tax Credit equity and National Housing Trust Fund support administered through the Oklahoma Housing Finance Agency. Local participation helped close a financing gap that allowed the project to move forward, illustrating how targeted public investment can help bring attainable housing units online that might not otherwise be feasible under market conditions alone. Public-private financing structures are often used to support affordable housing development by offsetting rising construction and land costs, helping ensure that new units remain accessible to working households while still attracting private capital. These partnerships enable communities to expand housing supply in a way that balances market realities with long-term affordability goals. In November, the opening of Hillcrest Green II at 3339 S.W. 74th St. added 43 affordable senior housing units to Oklahoma City’s inventory. Developed by the Indiana-based Midwest Support Foundation, the project offers one-bedroom units ranging from approximately 700 to 800 square feet, with monthly rents between $750 and $1,016. Housing developments designed for older adults play an important role in maintaining overall housing

OPTIONS ACROSS OKLAHOMA CITY

Oklahoma City continues to expand its housing supply through a combination of public investment and private development aimed at increasing housing stability and affordability for residents across a range of income levels and life stages. As the region grows and employers compete for talent, housing availability remains a key component of long-term economic competitiveness. Access to stable, attainable housing supports workforce participation, reduces cost burdens for working households, and helps ensure that residents can live near jobs, services and transportation networks. Recent affordable housing developments across the city reflect a coordinated effort among local governments, nonprofit partners, and private developers to increase supply while addressing the needs of specific populations. City officials recently joined development partners to celebrate the opening of Portland Place Apartments, an affordable housing project made possible through a combination of private financing and public investment.

Portland Place Apartments, a new 180-unit affordable housing community, has opened in north Oklahoma City near Northwest 160th Street and Portland Avenue.

Hillcrest Green II adds 43 affordable one-bedroom apartments for low-income seniors in Oklahoma City through a public- private partnership.

availability across the region. By increasing the number of units specifically tailored to senior residents, projects like Hillcrest Green II can help reduce competition for workforce housing while allowing longtime residents to remain in their communities as they age. More recently, Oklahoma City celebrated the opening of Dorset Place Veteran Community, a MAPS 4-funded supportive housing development that will provide 70 permanent housing units for veterans experiencing, or at risk of experiencing, homelessness. Veterans placed at Dorset Place through HUD- VASH vouchers will pay no more than 30 percent of their income on rent and have access to on-site support services including case management, daily meals and health care coordination. The development was funded in part through $1.9 million in MAPS 4 homelessness funds approved by Oklahoma City voters in 2019. Supportive housing developments like Dorset Place are designed to provide stable living environments alongside access to services that help residents maintain long-term housing stability. These projects can reduce reliance on emergency services while improving health and employment outcomes for residents transitioning out of homelessness.

Together, recent developments across Oklahoma City reflect a broader effort to increase the availability of attainable housing options while supporting population growth and workforce needs. Expanding the supply of affordable and supportive housing helps strengthen economic mobility for residents and supports the long-term competitiveness of the regional economy by ensuring that Oklahoma City remains accessible to workers at a variety of income levels.

City officials cut the ribbon on Dorset Place, an affordable housing community for veterans in Oklahoma City.

Companies and developers across the country often compare multiple metropolitan areas when determining where to invest capital, expand operations or open new locations. Oklahoma City is introduced to many of those decision-makers through national outreach conducted by local economic development and retail recruitment teams. “Site selection is a competitive national process,” said Dennis Pruitt, senior vice president of economic development for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “Companies are evaluating multiple metropolitan areas before committing capital, and our ongoing relationships ensure Oklahoma City is consistently positioned as a strong, investable market.” The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s retail development team participates in an average of 12 out-of-market industry conferences annually, including International Council of Shopping Centers and Urban Land Institute events. At these conferences, Chamber representatives meet with national and regional retailers, brokers and tenant representatives to introduce Oklahoma City as a potential expansion market. “National retailers are evaluating markets that demonstrate sustained population growth, income momentum and strong mixed-use development. Our outreach ensures Oklahoma City is consistently part of that expansion conversation, and we’re seeing OKLAHOMA CITY COMPETES NATIONALLY FOR PROJECTS AND INVESTMENT "National retailers are evaluating markets that demonstrate sustained population growth, income momentum and strong mixed-use development . Our outreach ensures Oklahoma City is consistently part of that expansion conversation..." - Tammy Fate

brands respond to the long-term investment happening across the city,” said Tammy Fate, director of retail development and recruitment for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. The Chamber’s economic development team similarly engages corporate site selectors and company representatives at national recruitment conferences, introducing Oklahoma City to decision- makers evaluating potential locations for relocation or expansion. Corporate site selectors often guide companies through complex relocation and expansion decisions. Firms such as Newmark, Colliers, EY and JLL work with companies evaluating potential markets across industries ranging from aerospace and biotechnology to manufacturing and shared services. To stay connected with those decision-makers, the Chamber regularly participates in industry events including Site Selectors Guild gatherings, Area Development conferences, Consultant Connect events and international industry showcases such as

the Farnborough Air Show and the BIO International Convention. When marketing Oklahoma City to prospective companies, the Chamber often highlights the region’s central U.S. location, competitive cost of doing business and strong workforce pipeline. Major employers including Tinker Air Force Base, the Federal Aviation Administration, Boeing and Pratt & Whitney contribute to a highly skilled labor pool, while Oklahoma’s CareerTech system continues to produce a work-ready workforce. Combined with continued investments through MAPS and a relatively low cost of living, these factors help position Oklahoma City as an attractive market for long-term capital investment. Retailers and developers evaluating potential markets often consider long-term performance indicators such as population growth, household income and district development. In Oklahoma City, MAPS investments and catalytic projects such as The Half, Chisholm Creek, Classen Curve, Rose Creek Plaza, OKANA and OAK

continue to shape mixed-use districts and walkable commercial corridors. Sustained outreach has contributed to new-to- market retail and entertainment investments in recent years, including Andretti’s Indoor Karting & Games, Truckyard, MMTH Fieldhouse, Scheels, Trader Joe’s and Bush League Tavern. Recruitment activity involving out-of-state companies evaluating Oklahoma City further illustrates how national outreach to site selectors and corporate decision-makers can translate into long-term private investment for the region. Retail recruitment and business development efforts often include direct outreach to brands, hosting national decision-makers in market and maintaining strategic partnerships with developers. As companies continue to compare potential markets for expansion, Oklahoma City’s central location, workforce strength and coordinated public-private investment help position the region as a competitive destination for long-term capital investment.

WELCOME NEW MEMBERS

Businesses who join the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber are part of the largest coalition of businesses in the state and make the Chamber’s work in the community possible. Each member level is identified on the listing below.

EMERGING LEADER

ASSOCIATE

Oklahoma Sleep & Wellness Clinic, PLLC Health Services Sleep Disorders - Diagnosis, Information & Treatment April Merrill........................................(405) 777-2727

Luxa Enterprises Accountants and Accounting Services Payroll Services Mr. Ben Clark...................................(918) 928-7288 15 E. 5th Street, Suite 1701 Tulsa, OK 74103-4326 www.luxa.us

5350 S. Western Ave., Suite 200 Oklahoma City, OK 73109-4525 www.oksleepwell.com

CORE

ArrowPoint Wealth Advisors Financial Services Ms. Sylvia Sterling.........................(405) 777-2792

Horizon Commercial Real Estate Real Estate - Commercial Mr. David Portman.........................(405) 850-1107 12017 Brookhollow Road Oklahoma City, OK 73120-5502 www.horizoncreok.com L. Davis Courier LLC Delivery Services Logistics / Warehousing & Distribution Mr. Bobby Davis...............................(405) 212-1201 10000 Southridge Drive Oklahoma City, OK 73159-7316 ldaviscourier.com Med-Valet Corporation Valet Services Mr. Larry Cranmer.......................(405) 602-5648 3535 NW 58th St., Suite 920 Oklahoma City, OK 73112-4812 Mosaic Mortgage Mortgages Ms. Breanna O'Connell..............(405) 215-9451 10 N. Lee Ave., Suite 109 Oklahoma City, OK 73102-2404 mosaicmortgageteam.com

Pilot.com Accountants and Accounting Services Regina Walton...................................(415) 745-8101 353 Sacramento St., Suite 1900 San Francisco, CA 94111-3656 www.pilot.com STAAR Solutions Consulting Group, LLC Consultants Marketing Consultants Mr. Christopher B. Moler............(405) 517-5106 2540 NW Grand Blvd. Oklahoma City, OK 73116-4110 www.staarsolutions.com Shelter Insurance - Phillip Goode Agency Insurance Mr. Phillip Goode.............................(405) 721-2179 4510 NW 63rd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73132-6901 www.shelterinsurance.com/phillipgoode Suntech Heat and Air, Plumbing Air Conditioning & Heating Equipment & Systems Repair Plumbing Mr. Joseph Hobson.....................(405) 901-1402 13 NW 132nd St. Oklahoma City, OK 73114-2303 www.suntechokc.com

The 1906 Room at Bricktown Brewery Caterers Meeting / Banquet Facilities Ms. Jaden Disheroon...............(405) 443-4344 1 N. Oklahoma Ave., Floor 2 Oklahoma City, OK 73104-2413 www.the1906room.com ALS Association Nonprofit / Service Agencies Ms. Faith Townsend....................(940) 234-1687 8749 Southwestern Blvd., Suite 5202 Dallas, TX 75026-2761 www.als.org Wymer Brownlee Wealth Strategies Accountants and Accounting Services Financial Services Ms. Clara Roark............................(405) 748-4000 16328 Muirfield Place Oklahoma City, OK 73013-9145 www.wymerbrownlee.com

11901 N. MacArthur Blvd., Suite F-1 Oklahoma City, OK 73162-1846 myarrowpoint.com Baja Painting

Contractors - Drywall Contractors - Painting Mr. Sergio Hernandez................(405) 824-7167 1317 Broadmoore Blvd. Moore, OK 73160-2784 Cross Timbers Arborist Landscape - Architects / Contractors / Services Tree Services Mr. Ben Lewallen..........................(405) 365-5061 3500 S. Brunson St. P.O. Box 54495 Oklahoma City, OK 73154-1495 crosstimbersarborist.com GreenPal, Inc. Landscape - Architects / Contractors / Services Lawn & Garden Services Mr. Gene Caballero....................(866) 798-4485 1312 5th Ave. N. Nashville, TN 37208-2766 https://www.yourgreenpal.com/ok/oklahoma- city-lawn-care

ECONOMIC INDICATORS

OKLAHOMA RANKS 6TH NATIONALLY IN WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Workforce Development Rankings in the “South Central” Region

SOUTH CENTRAL RANK

US RANK

STATE

OKLAHOMA

TEXAS

ARKANSAS

ALABAMA

LOUISIANA

TENNESSEE

KENTUCKY

8 MISSISSIPPI Source: 2026 Work Force Development Rankings: Bright Horizons – Site Selection Magazine, 1 being the best and 50 being the worst

• Oklahoma Ranked 6th nationally in Workforce Development in Site Selection magazine’s rankings. This was higher than Texas, Missouri, and Ohio. • Oklahoma also ranked #1 in the south central region , made up of eight different states • Oklahoma’s strong workforce development is also reflected by their top performance at the SkillsUSA National Championships 2025 , with 66 medals, placing OK #3 in the nation based on medal counts. The SkillsUSA championships is the nation’s premier competition for career and technical education students. • Site Selection’s rankings are based on metrics that focus on skills and credentials that have ROI and value.

For comprehensive Economic Indicator and Regional Data, please visit your Greater Oklahoma City Chamber Economic Development Division at www.greateroklahomacity.com/economicindicators or contact Eric Long, Research Economist, at 405-297-8976; elong@

okcchamber.com DID YOU KNOW?

Get regional demographic data, consumer expenditure information, labor force data for the Greater Oklahoma City Region and more at greateroklahomacity.com.

MARK BEFFORT Robinson Park; Vice Chair, Economic Development CLAY BENNETT Dorchester Capital; Vice Chair, Strategic Planning BOB FUNK JR. Express Employment Professionals; Vice Chair, Education & Talent DAVID HARLOW BancFirst; Vice Chair, Safe Community Initiatives BILL LANCE The Chickasaw Nation; Vice Chair, Government Relations JENNY LOVE MEYER Love’s Travel Stops; Vice Chair, Marketing & Communications 2026 OFFICERS

MIKE ROSS America Fidelity Assurance Company Corporate; Board Chair TERESA ROSE One Heartbeat Foundation; Immediate Past Chair; Vice Chair, Membership JOHN HART Continental Resources; Treasurer RHONDA HOOPER Jordan Advertising; Corporate Secretary CHRISTY GILLENWATER Greater Oklahoma City Chamber; President & CEO

RICK MUNCRIEF Muncrief Capital Management; Vice Chair, Innovation & Life Sciences LARRY NICHOLS Devon Energy Corporation; Vice Chair, FOKC & Community Issue Campaigns KENT SHORTRIDGE Oklahoma Natural Gas Company; Vice Chair, Transportation Initiatives SEAN TRAUSCHKE OGE Energy Corp.; Vice Chair, Convention & Visitors Development & LA28 TONY TYLER Tyler Media; Vice Chair, County Government & Criminal Justice

ISSUE #3612 - March 2026

Editorial staff Cynthia Reid, Lynzee Misseldine, Allie Putman Designer Billy Callan 405-297-8900 okcchamber.com twitter.com/okcchamber facebook.com/okcchamber VeloCity (ISSN 1075-6264) is published monthly by the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to VeloCity, Greater Oklahoma City Chamber 123 Park Avenue, Oklahoma City, OK 73102 or e-mail thepoint@okcchamber.com. SUBSCRIPTIONS: $15 per year included in Chamber membership; nonmembers, $25 per year within the U.S.. Periodicals Postage paid at Oklahoma City. Advertising rates upon request. Publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising.

Be part of the first Joint DC Visit with the Greater OKC and Tulsa Regional chambers , April 14–16. Network with leaders and advocate for policies shaping Oklahoma’s future. Contact mikejackson@okcchamber.com or nthomas@okcchamber.com for more information.

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