Oklahoma City Film and Creative Industries Office Executive Director Jill Simpson discusses Oklahoma City’s film industry during a panel hosted by Essential Offices.
To date, Oklahoma City has prequalified 16 projects, with two more under consideration. Ten of those project applications were received in the last nine months alone, reflecting the increasing interest in filming in the region. That activity is generating substantial economic returns. A $4 million commitment of city rebate funds has generated $106,764,407 in direct expenditures and a total economic impact of $373.8 million for Oklahoma City. The local growth reflects broader trends across Oklahoma’s film industry. Between 2019 and 2023, employment in the state’s film and television industry increased 56.2%, while total compensation grew 169%. Oklahoma also climbed to No. 18 nationally for its film incentive program, up from No. 26 in 2025. Building the workforce for continued growth As more productions move through the pipeline, Simpson said developing the workforce needed to support them will be an important part of sustaining that growth. “Attracting productions is one part of building this industry,” Simpson said. “We also need to make sure there are enough people here who have the skills and experience to work on those productions. Building that workforce allows us to support more projects and gives us a stronger pipeline for the future.” OKC Film works with educational institutions and industry partners across the metro to strengthen that workforce pipeline. Film and digital media programs are available through Oklahoma City Community College, Oklahoma City University, the University of Oklahoma and Rose State College, while Metro Tech, Francis Tuttle
Technology Center and Moore Norman Technology Center are among the additional partners helping prepare workers for the industry. Filmmakers Ranch also offers Set Ready training for production work. Strengthening the local workforce is central to OKC Film’s long-term vision of transforming Oklahoma City from a production location into a regional production hub. Developing experienced crews and expanding opportunities for local talent can help the region accommodate more productions while creating pathways for workers to build careers without leaving Oklahoma City. “We want to build on the momentum we’re seeing and make sure Oklahoma City is prepared for what comes next,” Simpson said. “The goal isn’t just more productions. It’s building an industry that can continue growing here.” We want to build on the momentum we’re seeing and make sure Oklahoma City is prepared for what comes next. The goal isn’t just more productions. It’s building an industry that can continue growing here - Jill Simpson
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