GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY CHAMBER CELEBRATES MILESTONES AND SETS VISION FOR CONTINUED GROWTH IN 2025
In 2024, Chamber-supported businesses created 5,800 jobs, increased payroll by $358 million and secured $664 million in new capital investments. These achievements reflect the strength of Oklahoma City’s economy and the collective efforts of its businesses, workers, and community leaders. While celebrating these successes, Rose emphasized the ongoing challenges, particularly in workforce development and education. Underemployment and the skills gap remain obstacles to growth, making it critical to focus on education and talent development to ensure Oklahoma City remains a hub for business opportunities. To address these challenges, the Chamber has partnered with Oklahoma State University-OKC to launch the state’s first chapter of the Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (FAME). This innovative program combines classroom learning with hands-on training to prepare students for careers in manufacturing, addressing the skills gap and providing opportunities with local companies such as Climate Control Group, IDEX Energy, and OMADA International. Workforce development efforts are also supporting Oklahoma’s rapidly growing bioscience sector. The relaunch of Life Science Oklahoma positions the state as a leader in biotechnology, therapeutics and diagnostics, fostering innovation and collaboration within the life sciences and healthcare industries. The Chamber’s role in securing federal funding through the Build Back Better Regional Grant Program has been pivotal in advancing these sectors. Oklahoma City has also made progress in aerospace and energy, with continued partnerships driving innovation and economic growth in these industries. Additionally, the city’s tourism sector remains a key economic driver, bolstered by major events such as the Women’s College World Series and the U.S. Olympic Trials.
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber celebrated significant achievements in 2024, marking key milestones, creating new spaces for community engagement and laying the groundwork for further success in 2025. Chamber Board Chair Teresa Rose highlighted these accomplishments during the Chamber’s Annual Meeting on December 18, 2024.
Chamber members engaged in meaningful conversations with keynote speaker David Green, CEO of Hobby Lobby, at the Chamber’s 2024 Annual Meeting.
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