APRIL 2026 • OKCCHAMBER.COM
CANADIAN CLEAN-TECH FIRM SELECTS OKLAHOMA CITY FOR U.S. HEADQUARTERS
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A Canadian clean technology company has established its U.S. headquarters in Oklahoma City, reinforcing the region’s role as a hub for energy innovation as the industry continues to evolve. Kathairos Solutions formally opened its U.S. office in August 2025 in the historic Pontiac Building in Automobile Alley, placing its American operations near customers, partners and key oil and gas basins across the country. The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber worked in partnership with regional and state partners to support Kathairos Solutions during its site selection process, connecting the company with local industry leaders and resources. The project reflects broader efforts to attract companies at the intersection of energy, technology and emissions reduction. “Oklahoma City continues to attract companies that are shaping the future of energy,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “Kathairos Solutions’ decision to locate its U.S. headquarters here reflects CANADIAN CLEAN-TECH FIRM SELECTS OKLAHOMA CITY FOR U.S. HEADQUARTERS
both the strength of our existing energy sector and the opportunity to lead in areas like emissions reduction and innovation.” “Choosing Oklahoma City wasn’t a difficult decision — it was an obvious one once we took a hard look at what we needed to build a serious U.S. commercial operation,” said John “Bunkie” Westerheide, chief revenue officer of Kathairos Solutions, who is based in Oklahoma City. He pointed to proximity to customers and partners, as well as the concentration of senior energy leadership in the region, as key advantages for the company’s growth. A strategic entry point into the U.S. market Oklahoma City offers direct access to major oil and gas regions, including the Anadarko, Permian and Eagle Ford basins, allowing Kathairos to efficiently support operations across multiple markets from a single location. “Oklahoma City puts us within a day’s travel of virtually every major producing basin in the continental United States,” Westerheide said. The company is actively serving Oklahoma- based operators and has established an industry collaboration with Kimray, a long-standing Oklahoma City manufacturer specializing in pneumatic control equipment. Addressing a widespread emissions challenge Kathairos focuses on eliminating methane emissions from pneumatic devices, which are widely used in oil and gas production and represent one of the largest sources of routine emissions in the industry. Traditionally, these systems rely on natural gas to power valves and controls, resulting in small
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but continuous releases of methane during normal operation. Kathairos replaces that gas with liquid nitrogen, allowing equipment to function without venting methane into the atmosphere. The system operates without external power and requires minimal maintenance, making it well-suited for remote and large-scale deployments. The growing focus on methane mitigation is being driven by a combination of regulatory expectations, investor pressure and advances in monitoring technology. “Emissions performance is becoming a real factor in market access, capital allocation and the social license to operate,” Westerheide said. Scaling impact across North America Kathairos has deployed its technology at more than 3,000 sites across North America and is approaching a
milestone of eliminating 1 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions. The company’s emissions reductions are measured through its internal monitoring platform, giving operators real-time visibility into performance across their operations. Growth and outlook As Kathairos continues to expand its U.S. footprint, Oklahoma City is expected to remain central to its growth strategy. The company plans to add both commercial and technical roles locally and is evaluating the potential for a field operations presence in the Anadarko Basin as deployment activity increases. “Our growth in OKC is a direct reflection of the relationships we’ve built here,” Westerheide said. “Every new role we add is an investment in those partnerships and in this community.”
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LEADERSHIP NOTES
Strengthening the foundation for long-term workforce success Oklahoma City’s growth reflects decades of intentional investment, strong partnerships and a clear focus on building a competitive and resilient economy. As that momentum continues, our responsibility is to ensure the region’s workforce keeps pace with the opportunities being created. In recent years, Oklahoma City has seen continued expansion across key industries, along with increased interest from companies considering relocation and investment. That progress speaks to the strength of our business climate, our affordability and the collaborative spirit that defines our community. It also underscores the importance of preparing a workforce equipped to meet evolving demands. Workforce challenges are not unique to Oklahoma City, but the way we respond to them will shape our ability to sustain growth. As industries evolve and skill requirements shift, the connection between education and employment becomes even more important. Educators across our region prepare students every day for what comes next, and that work must remain at the center of any long-term solution. At the same time, we cannot afford to wait for better alignment to happen on its own. Strengthening the connection between education and workforce systems requires deliberate action, shared responsibility and a commitment to continuous improvement. When we take that approach, we create clearer pathways for students, stronger outcomes for employers and greater opportunities across our community. Supporting educators means ensuring they have access to the information, partnerships and resources needed to connect their work to real-world opportunities. It means employers actively engaging in that process and helping shape pathways that reflect current and future workforce needs. And it means creating systems that make it easier for students and job seekers to navigate those opportunities with confidence. Expanding access to meaningful career opportunities while helping employers find the talent they need strengthens the long- term trajectory of our region. It supports continued business growth, enhances competitiveness and contributes to a more sustainable and inclusive economy. Oklahoma City has consistently taken a forward-looking approach to growth. Strengthening our workforce systems continues that commitment, but we need you to help shape what comes next. You are invited to join the cause as we redesign the way we work together to move Oklahoma City onward.
CHRISTY GILLENWATER President & CEO
READ CHRISTY’S VELOCITYOKC ONLINE STORY OF THE MONTH
UFL selects Oklahoma City for expansion team, anchoring MAPS 4 stadium debut VelocityOKC.com/ ChristysPick
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UPCOMING EVENTS CALENDAR (Events are subject to change. Consult okcchamber.com/events for the most recent updates.)
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.
A previous InternOKC cohort comes together for a day of networking and professional development.
Invest in your interns with a full day of professional development, networking and connection in the heart of Oklahoma City. InternOKC is designed to give participants high-impact learning experiences while helping them feel more connected to the city’s workforce and community. The program brings together some of Oklahoma City’s top trainers and successful young professionals to share practical insights on navigating the workplace, building confidence and growing a career. Sessions are focused on real-world application, equipping interns with skills they can immediately carry into their roles and future opportunities. Beyond professional development, InternOKC also introduces interns to the broader OKC community. Throughout the day, participants will gain a better understanding of what makes the region an attractive place to live and work, from its growing economy to its collaborative culture. The experience concludes with dedicated time for networking, giving interns the opportunity to connect with peers, local professionals and other emerging talent. These connections help strengthen long-term engagement and can play a key role in retaining talent within the region. Date: June 24, 2026 Time: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Location: The Skirvin Hilton, 1 Park Ave. Reserve seats for your interns by emailing Register@okcchamber.com. For questions, contact Lee Copeland, Director of Talent Programs & Partnerships, at lcopeland@okcchamber.com. INTERNOKC RETURNS TO CONNECT AND DEVELOP EMERGING OKC TALENT
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. SEP 1 (TUE) State of the Region National Cowboy & Western Heritage Museum 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
OCT 7 (WED) Chamber Forum Petroleum Club 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
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MAY FORUM TO EXPLORE MINIMUM WAGE POLICY AND ECONOMIC IMPACT
Learn more about the upcoming State Question to raise Oklahoma’s minimum wage at the next Chamber Forum on May 13, as business and community leaders come together to examine the evolving conversation around minimum wage policy and the potential impact the state questions could have on Oklahoma. The discussion will focus on the details of the state question, which includes an automatic escalator that could result in significant wage inflation in the coming years. These wage requirements could have a significant impact on employers, workers and the broader economy. Attendees will hear from economists, business leaders and policy experts offering a range of perspectives on what these shifts could mean for Oklahoma’s workforce, small businesses and long-term economic growth.
As with all Chamber forums, the event also offers an opportunity to connect with peers and stay engaged with the issues influencing Oklahoma City’s continued growth.
DATE: May 13, 2026 TIME: 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
LOCATION: The Petroleum Club of Oklahoma City, Inc., 100 N. Broadway Ave., Suite 3400
To inquire about tickets, email register@okcchamber.com.
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CHAMBER LAUNCHES REGIONAL EDUCATION AND WORKFORCE STRATEGY WITH CIVICLAB
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber has officially launched a new effort to better align education and workforce systems across the region, partnering with CivicLab to develop a five-year strategic plan focused on strengthening the talent pipeline. The effort comes as Oklahoma City continues to experience economic growth and increasing demand for skilled workers across key industries. By bringing together partners from across sectors, the Chamber aims to create a more coordinated approach to preparing workers for both current and future job needs. CivicLab was selected following a competitive Request for Proposals process earlier this year. The organization brings national experience in helping regions design collaborative strategies that connect
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Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “By partnering with CivicLab, we are committing to a data-informed, employer-driven and community-centered approach that will help ensure our education and training systems are aligned with the needs of our economy and our people.” Over the coming months, CivicLab will work with the Chamber to convene business leaders, K-12 and higher education institutions, workforce training providers and community organizations. These conversations will help identify gaps, surface opportunities, and build consensus around shared priorities for the region’s workforce future. The result will be a comprehensive five-year roadmap designed to strengthen educational outcomes, better connect training programs to in-demand careers, and support long-term economic competitiveness in the Greater Oklahoma City region. “We’re honored to partner with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber on this important effort,” said Jack Hess, co-founder of CivicLab. “The region has incredible assets and momentum, and we look forward to working closely with employers, educators and community leaders to develop a shared roadmap that supports both learners and employers.” Additional opportunities for employers, educators, and community members to participate in the process are expected to be announced as the work continues. The initiative reflects a broader focus on ensuring Oklahoma City’s continued growth is supported by a strong and adaptable workforce. As more companies consider expanding or relocating to the region, aligning education and workforce systems will play a key role in sustaining that momentum and positioning the region for long-term success. “ By partnering with CivicLab, we are committing to a data-informed, employer-driven and community- centered approach that will help ensure our education and training systems are aligned with the needs of our economy and our people. ” - Christy Gillenwater
education outcomes with workforce demands, with an emphasis on practical implementation and measurable impact. The initiative kicked off April 9 at the Chamber’s Annual Leadership Summit, where regional leaders gathered to begin shaping priorities and outcomes for the effort. The planning process will continue over the coming months through a series of engagements with employers, educators, and community stakeholders. At the center of the initiative is a focus on aligning education and training pathways with employer needs while improving access to opportunities for learners across the region. “This work represents a critical investment in the future of our regional workforce,” said Christy
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Oklahoma voters will consider State Question 832 at a statewide election on June 16, 2026, reopening a broader conversation about wages, affordability and long-term economic growth The measure would amend the Oklahoma Minimum Wage Act to gradually raise the state’s minimum wage from $7.25 per hour to $15 per hour by 2029, followed by automatic annual increases tied to the Consumer Price Index for Urban Wage Earners and Clerical Workers (CPI-W). Business leaders say this specific proposal raises concerns about its pace, structure and potential impact on Oklahoma businesses. Under the proposal, the minimum wage would increase in stages: • $10.50 per hour in 2026 • $12 per hour in 2027 • $13.50 per hour in 2028 • $15 per hour in 2029 Beginning in 2030, the wage would increase each year based on the CPI-W, a federal measure of inflation. Over time, the escalator could push wages well beyond $15. At typical inflation rates, that figure could approach $27 to $30 per hour by 2040, even without additional policy changes. MINIMUM WAGE PROPOSAL RAISES QUESTIONS ABOUT PACE, STRUCTURE AND LONG-TERM IMPACT
A broader shift in policy In addition to increasing wages, the measure would significantly expand who is covered under the law. The proposal eliminates a number of existing exemptions in the Oklahoma Minimum Wage Act, including those for part-time employees, certain students and workers under 18, and several industry- specific roles. That change would bring more workers under minimum wage requirements, representing a broader shift in how wage policy is applied across the state. A shared goal, different approach Oklahoma’s minimum wage has remained unchanged since 2009. In that time, many employers have already raised wages in response to market conditions, particularly in a competitive labor environment. In practice, the “effective” minimum wage in Oklahoma City is significantly higher than $7.25 per hour, with many entry-level positions offering starting pay closer to the low-to-mid teens. As a result, many entry-level jobs in Oklahoma City already pay above the current minimum wage, reflecting broader economic trends rather than policy mandates. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that only a small share of workers earn the minimum wage. In 2024, an estimated 5,000 Oklahoma workers earned $7.25 per hour out of roughly 1.69 million wage and salary workers statewide — about three-tenths of one percent. Business leaders say that dynamic underscores a key point in the current debate: wages are already rising, but how they rise — and how quickly — matters. Concerns about the pace of increases The proposed schedule would more than double the state’s minimum wage over a relatively short period. For small and locally owned businesses, that pace presents challenges. Labor is one of the largest operating costs, and rapid increases can create pressure that is difficult to absorb. Businesses may respond by: • Increasing prices for goods and services • Reducing hiring or limiting entry-level opportunities • Adjusting employee hours or benefits • Delaying expansion or investment These impacts can be especially pronounced for smaller businesses operating on tighter margins.
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constitution, and the automatic nature of the escalator would also allow wages to increase year after year without additional legislative or voter review. “We support increasing wages, but this proposal goes further than that,” said Mike Jackson, senior vice president of government relations for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber. “When you combine a rapid increase with an automatic escalator tied to national data, it creates ongoing cost pressures that don’t always reflect Oklahoma’s economy, especially for small businesses.” Balancing growth and affordability Oklahoma City’s affordability remains one of its key economic advantages, consistently ranking among the lowest-cost large metro areas in the country. That affordability supports both residents and employers, particularly small businesses that are critical to local communities. Many in the business community support a more gradual and flexible approach to increasing wages that allows for adjustments based on local economic conditions. What voters should consider As voters evaluate the proposal, the discussion extends beyond whether wages should increase, to how those increases are structured over time. The measure combines a significant near-term increase, expanded worker coverage and long-term automatic adjustments tied to national economic trends. These changes will have significant impacts on business and the economy. Business leaders say a more measured approach would better support both workers and the long-term health of Oklahoma’s economy.
The long-term impact of the escalator Beyond the phased increases, attention is also focused on what happens after 2029. Beginning in 2030, the proposal includes an automatic escalator, which would increase wages annually based on national inflation data. Because that formula relies on a federal index, it reflects economic conditions across the country, including higher-cost metro areas such as Los Angeles and New York City. That means wage increases in Oklahoma would continue rising based on an external factor that does not reflect the economic environment in the state. The state question would place this change into the
Congratulations to Chamber members on their recent Grand Openings! To see the schedule of upcoming Grand Openings or subscribe to the Grand Openings calendar, visit okcchamber.com/grandopenings. GRAND OPENINGS
Davis H. Elliot Company, Inc. 4300 SW 15th St., OKC OK 73108 Brighter Strides ABA Therapy Center 1091 S. Western Ave., Suite A, Moore OK 73170
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CHAMBER PRIORITIES SEEING PROGRESS IN LEGISLATIVE SESSION
Several priorities tied to local governance are also advancing. Proposed updates to the County Home Rule Charter Act and expanded funding tools for jail trusts reflect movement on efforts to improve flexibility and long-term sustainability at the local level. Other priorities remain in progress. Discussions around mental health access, tax policy and local funding mechanisms continue, though many of these issues are tied to broader fiscal considerations that have yet to be fully resolved. Lawmakers are
As Oklahoma’s legislative session continues, several of the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber’s top priorities are taking shape at the Capitol. That timeline came into sharper focus in recent weeks as Gov. Kevin Stitt and legislative leaders unveiled an early $12.7 billion FY27 budget, signaling momentum toward ending session well before the May 29 deadline. The proposal keeps most agencies flat while increasing education funding to $4.2 billion, including investments in teacher pay, literacy and math initiatives, and $15 million tied to Oklahoma City’s role in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. Education remains one of the most active areas this session. Lawmakers continue advancing proposals aimed at improving reading and math outcomes, alongside broader discussions around school funding and classroom instruction time. These efforts align closely with the Chamber’s focus on strengthening student outcomes and building a more competitive workforce pipeline. Progress is also being made in economic development and competitiveness. Legislation supporting key industries, workforce development programs and major investments reflects a continued emphasis on growth and job creation. Leaders have also highlighted the importance of sustained investment in infrastructure, research and defense assets like Tinker Air Force Base.
also working through a compressed timeline, with proposals like HB 4440, which would let voters decide whether to move Medicaid expansion language from the Oklahoma Constitution into state statute, adding to the policy mix as session deadlines approach. With key deadlines nearing — and the potential for an early
end to session — timing will play a significant role in determining which measures ultimately advance. While several priorities are gaining traction, others will depend on how quickly consensus can be reached in the weeks ahead.
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The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber formalized a new international partnership March 30, signing a memorandum of understanding with the Importers and Exporters Association of Taipei (IEAT) to strengthen trade and business collaboration between Oklahoma City and Taiwan. The agreement establishes a framework to enhance cooperation in areas including trade, investment, information sharing and broader commercial activity between the two organizations and the regions they represent. Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater and Michael Tsung, chairman of IEAT’s American NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH TAIWAN GROUP EXPANDS OKLAHOMA CITY’S GLOBAL BUSINESS TIES “ We’ve been intentional about partnerships and investments, and today we’re showing we want to be just as intentional about our relationship with you ” - Christy Gillenwater
Affairs Committee, signed the agreement during a ceremony at the Chamber’s downtown offices, joined by a visiting delegation from Taiwan. “We’ve been intentional about partnerships and investments, and today we’re showing we want to be just as intentional about our relationship with you,” Gillenwater said. “We’re very happy to be here and look forward to building strong connections between our organizations,” Tsung said. The event also highlighted the relationship-building aspect of the partnership. Representatives exchanged gifts, including a custom plate featuring Oklahoma’s scissortail flycatcher alongside Taiwan’s blue magpie, symbolizing the connection between the two regions. The Chamber presented a buffalo statue, a nod to Oklahoma’s state animal, in return. The agreement connects Oklahoma City to a broader international trade network and creates new pathways for export growth, foreign direct investment and business recruitment. IEAT has signed similar cooperation agreements with economic development organizations and chambers of commerce in major markets around the world, positioning Oklahoma City alongside other globally engaged regions. “We want this to be a living document, not just a piece of paper,” said Dennis Pruitt, senior vice president of economic development for the Chamber. The partnership is expected to support future trade missions, business exchanges and ongoing collaboration between companies in both regions.
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CYNTHIA REID REFLECTS ON 33 YEARS OF SHAPING OKLAHOMA CITY’S GROWTH
After more than three decades with the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, Cynthia Reid is preparing to step into a new chapter — one that looks a little different from the pace she’s known for most of her career. Reid, who joined the Chamber in 1989, left in 1996 and returned in 2000, said she never expected to stay as long as she did. “I don’t think anyone expects to work for the same employer for more than 30 years, but when you enjoy the work and get to be a part of changing the community you call home, the years just fly by.” What began as a role in publications evolved into something
into whatever was needed at the time. With a communications team of just a few people, the work required flexibility and a willingness to adapt. “It was really just diving in,” she said, “wearing a lot of different hats.” When Reid returned to the Chamber in 2000, she returned to a role focused on economic development marketing — a shift that would become a defining part of her career. “I loved that time period because I was really able to dig into some really special projects,” she said. “There was really no limit to the things we could do to impact the work.” The role also gave her the opportunity to see projects move from early conversations to full implementation, adding another layer to her understanding of how the city grows. That approach — jumping in, learning quickly and taking on whatever was needed — would come to define her career. Over the years, Reid played a role in many of the initiatives and campaigns that helped shape Oklahoma City’s growth, from early MAPS efforts to major public votes and economic development projects. Her work spanned communications, events, marketing, campaign “ Oklahoma City hit this momentum inflection point... Things were moving faster – keeping track of Oklahoma City’s growth and everything that was happening was almost impossible. ” - Cynthia Reid
much broader. Early on, Reid
worked as a publications coordinator, managing multiple newsletters and stepping
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strategy and implementation — often all at once. One of the most defining periods came during a stretch of rapid momentum for the city. With the arrival of the Thunder and the rise of the “Big League City” campaign, Oklahoma City was entering a new phase of national attention and local investment. In a span of just a few months, multiple major initiatives were underway at the same time, including an OCPS school bond, a City bond election, the Big League City campaign, and a county bond issue for the purchase of GM to expand Tinker. “That time period set the stage for the future,” Reid said. As the city continued to grow, so did the complexity of the work. By the early 2010s, Reid said she began to notice a shift. “Oklahoma City hit this momentum inflection point,” she said. “Things were moving faster – keeping track of Oklahoma City’s growth and everything that was happening was almost impossible.” Alongside campaign work, Reid helped shape many of the Chamber’s most visible events, including the Annual Meeting and State of the City. She was part of more than 30 Annual Meetings over the course of her career and worked on milestone moments like hosting the U.S. Conference of Mayors in 2010 and State of the City events where major announcements, including plans for a new arena, were unveiled.
She also pointed to Inner City Visit as a standout experience, offering a chance to shape how ideas and policies come to life in real time. “Being able to present an aspiration or idea from one of the cities we visit, and then see how our community, or companies on the trip put those things into effect in Oklahoma City makes that effort really valuable.” Throughout it all, Reid said the people have been one of the most meaningful parts of her experience. “This work is a team sport,” she said. “I have been lucky to be inspired by our leadership, and to have worked alongside incredibly dedicant colleagues and servant leaders.” That long-term perspective, she said, is critical in understanding the work. “Tenure matters, because the work we do is complicated, and the perspective of how it all fits together is important,” Reid said. Now, after spending nearly her entire adult life connected to the Chamber, Reid is preparing to step back — but not step away completely. She said she’s looking forward to more flexibility and the opportunity to focus on the things she’s passionate about, including traveling, creating, and consulting. “I’m not ready to completely leave the scene,” she said. When asked what she would tell her younger self just starting at the Chamber, Reid paused. “Stick with this,” she said. “The hard work is worth it. You will get to be a part of something great.”
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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.
ADVISOR
ASSOCIATE
HOPE Community Services, Inc. Mental Health Services Ms. Heather Helberg...............(405) 634-4400 6100 S. Walker Ave.
Studio Architecture Architects Interior Decorators & Designers Mr. Joshua Hill.................................(405) 605-1044 816 N. Walker Ave., Suite 100
DM Injury Law Attorneys / Lawyers Legal Services Ms. Stephanie Moore................(816) 888-7500
Liberty Disposal, Inc. Waste Management & Disposal Mr. Jason Mallory?(405) 465-8038 3801 S. Eastern Ave.
OKC OK 73139 www.jopecsi.org
529 W. Main St. OKC OK 73102 dmlawusa.com
OKC OK 73129 www.ldi89.com
OKC OK 73102-1234 www.studioarc.com
CORE
123 Remodeling, LLC Roofing Contractors Mr. Aaron Grigsby......................(405) 208-4006 6801 S. Western Ave., Suite 108 OKC OK 73139 https://123remodelingok.com All Copy Products / Verticomm Business Machines Information Technology Cheyanne Bay.............................(539) 888-6298 1521 W. 36th Place Tulsa, OK 74107 www.acp.com Boingo Wireless Internet Services Mr. Bram Bandertuin 17 Cowboys Way, Suite 400 Frisco, TX 75034 www.boingo.com Boom List Digital Marketing Services Mr. Josh Close.................................(405) 626-1156
Brighter Strides ABA Therapy Educational Services Health Services Ms. Kelsy Pickle..............................(405) 357-1243 10921 S. Western Ave., Suite 100 OKC OK 73170 brighterstridesaba.com Carletti's Bars / Taverns Restaurants Mr. Chip Fudge..............................(405) 286-1594 1226 NE 63rd St. OKC OK 73111-7806 www.carlettis.com Excel Solutions Information Technology Mr. Cliff Walley................................(580) 583-9010 4300 Caravel Dr, Apt 238 Yukon, OK 73099 excelservices.co First Turn Capital Investment Banking Mr. Caleb Corbitt...........................(405) 602-2133 4 E. Sheridan Ave., Suite 300 OKC OK 73104-2513 www.firstturncapital.com
Home Place Real Estate Real Estate Real Estate - Business & Industrial Development Mr. Heston Bush...........................(405) 242-3330 7909 N. May Ave. OKC OK 73120-4540 www.homeplaceok.com The Mustard Seed Agency Advertising Agencies Ms. Erica Bollinger........................(405) 412-5792 18401 Auburn Meadows Drive Edmond, OK 73012-0611 https://www.themustardseedagency.com MyDefence North America, LLC Aerospace Industries Mr. Tim Wofford.............................(302) 487-3619 11 NW 8th St. OKC OK 73102 https://mydefence.com Oklahoma Milkshake Factory Restaurants Mr. Ashontay Owens.................(405) 673-7442 625 W. Sheridan Ave., Suite 102 OKC OK 73102-2409 www.theokmf.com
One Focus Medical Medical Clinics Mr. Jeff Davenport, M.D..........(405) 285-7568 3815 S. Boulevard Edmond, OK 73013-5479 www.onefocusmedical.com Red Fox Pipe & Fence Steel Pipe & Tubes Ms. Sheryl Esser...........................(405) 478-4500 3216 Aluma Valley Drive OKC OK 73121-1414 https://internationalpipe.com/red-fox-pipe Sherry Aland, PC Accountants and Accounting Services Financial Services Ms. Sherry Aland........................(405) 260-8303 2524 N. Broadway, #597 Edmond, OK 73013-2064 sherryalandpc.com Village Travel Travel Agencies & Consultants Mr. Rusty Handy...........................(405) 427-8688 2701 E. I-44 Service Road OKC OK 73111-8307 www.govillagetravel.com
1623 NW 12th Ave. Norman, OK 73072 www.boom-list.com
MEMBER UPGRADES The following member companies increased their investment in the Chamber, demonstrating strong support of the Chamber’s efforts to drive the region’s economy. To increase your investment, contact the Membership Division of the Chamber at 405-297-8949 or membership@okcchamber.com.
amshot LLC Computer System Integration Information Technology Mr. Ian Dauteuil..............................(405) 418-6282 1300 N. Broadway Drive OKC OK 73103-4814 www.amshot.com EMERGING LEADER
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ECONOMIC INDICATORS
GREATER OKLAHOMA CITY REGION HAS THE THREE FASTEST GROWING COUNTIES IN THE STATE OF OKLAHOMA Greater OKC 10-County Population Growth
2024-205 Percent Change
2024-2025 Change
Geographic Area
2024
2025
Canadian
181,644
187,189
5,545
3.1%
McClain
48,530
49,647
1,117
2.3%
Logan
53,997
55,473
1,476
2.7%
Grady
57,504
58,298
830
1.4%
Kingfisher
15,677
15,795
118
0.8%
Lincoln County
35,000
35,278
278
0.8%
Pottawatomie
74,475
75,102
627
0.8%
Oklahoma County
818,198
822,125
3,927
0.5%
Cleveland
303,401
303,973
572
0.2%
Payne
83,696
83,889
193
0.2%
Source: U.S. Census Mid-Year July 1 Population Estimates for 2025, Released March 2026
• From 2024-2025 the 3 fastest growing counties in Oklahoma were all located in the Greater Oklahoma City Region. (Canadian, Logan, and McClain County) • Over the past year, the Greater Oklahoma City 10-county region added 18,930 people, for a total of 1.68 million. • As of 2025, the Greater Oklahoma City region makes up 41% of the state’s population, while contributing 57% of the state’s population growth from 2020-2025. • Oklahoma City MSA (a 7-county region) ranks #15 in greatest population growth percentage from 2020-2025, for metros with 1 million+ population
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.
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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 #3613 - April 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.
THE FUTURE OF MINIMUM WAGE IN OKLAHOMA
Wednesday, May 13 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Petroleum Club
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