DURANT, Okla. — The Oklahoma Small Business Development Center Network has named Trina Southard as its new Center Director for Business Expansion and Commerce Engagement, placing a veteran economic development professional in a role focused on strengthening partnerships and supporting business growth across Oklahoma.
Southard brings more than 35 years of experience in workforce development and community and economic development. Her appointment is part of the Oklahoma SBDC’s broader effort to connect businesses with resources, regional organizations and state economic development initiatives.
New Role Focuses on Business Expansion Across Oklahoma
In her new position, Southard will work with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, regional economic development organizations and other strategic partners to identify opportunities for companies to grow and expand.
“This leadership role will focus on strengthening collaboration among the Oklahoma SBDC, the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, regional economic development organizations, and strategic partners to accelerate business expansion opportunities, enhance client services, and support statewide economic growth initiatives,” noted Oklahoma SBDC State Director Dr. Michele Hockersmith.
The position is expected to strengthen coordination between the SBDC’s business advisory services and organizations involved in economic development throughout the state.
Southard Brings More Than 35 Years of Experience
Southard has spent more than three decades working in workforce development and community and economic development.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Engineering Technology from Cameron University and an associate degree in Design Drafting. She is also a graduate of the University of Oklahoma’s Economic Development Institute, Leadership Chickasha, Leadership Duncan and the Washita Valley Leadership program.
Her previous leadership experience includes serving as president of the Oklahoma Workforce Association and chair of the Oklahoma Southwest Alliance, a 20-county economic development consortium.
The Oklahoma Department of Commerce said Southard’s experience could help deepen cooperation between state and regional organizations working to create opportunities for businesses.
“Trina has decades of experience in economic development, and we are excited to welcome her to this new role,” said Jon Chiappe, Oklahoma Department of Commerce Executive Director of CORE. “I look forward to working with Trina and the Oklahoma SBDC Network to strengthen our partnership and create even more opportunities for businesses across Oklahoma. Together, we can help make Oklahoma the most business and people friendly state in the country where local companies can grow and thrive.”
Oklahoma SBDC Maintains Statewide Small-Business Network
The Oklahoma SBDC has operated since 1984 and has developed a statewide network of business consulting services. According to the organization, it has helped more than 150,000 Oklahomans pursue entrepreneurial goals, including starting and operating small businesses.
Business owners across all 77 Oklahoma counties can receive no-cost business advising through the network’s 20 locations. Its services are designed to assist entrepreneurs and established companies with a range of business needs.
The organization is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. It also maintains financial partnerships with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, higher education institutions, technology centers, community consortiums and organizations serving underserved communities.
Through those partnerships, the SBDC says it has contributed to Oklahoma’s economy by supporting business startups, employment growth and improved long-term business sustainability.
Partnership Aims to Strengthen Oklahoma’s Business Environment
The Oklahoma SBDC Network has been hosted by Southeastern Oklahoma State University since 1984, providing business consulting and entrepreneurial assistance across the state for more than four decades.
Southard’s appointment places additional emphasis on collaboration between the SBDC, state government and regional economic development organizations. Her responsibilities will center on creating stronger connections between those groups while expanding opportunities and services available to Oklahoma businesses.
With decades of economic and workforce development experience, Southard will now help lead the network’s efforts to support business expansion and broader economic growth across Oklahoma.
