The second-floor rotunda of the Oklahoma State Capitol was filled with aerospace executives, military personnel, educators and students this week as the state staged its flagship AERO Oklahoma Day, underlining the strength of its $44bn (£35bn) aerospace and defence industry.
More than 1,000 attendees took part in the annual event, which has become a focal point for Oklahoma’s Aerospace Week. Organised by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) and backed by Kratos Defense & Security Solutions as presenting sponsor, the gathering highlighted the state’s ambition to remain a competitive force in global aviation and defence markets.
More than 60 exhibitors were present, including major industry players such as Boeing, American Airlines and Northrop Grumman. Demonstrations ranged from interactive flight simulators to advanced drone systems, reflecting the breadth of activity across Oklahoma’s aerospace ecosystem, widely regarded as the state’s second-largest economic sector.
Industry rally underscores policy alignment and economic ambition
At the centre of the day’s programme was an industry rally that brought together policymakers and private-sector leaders, signalling a coordinated push to sustain growth and investment.
Kevin Stitt, who delivered the keynote address, positioned aerospace as a cornerstone of the state’s economic future.
“As the fastest-growing sector in our state’s economy, aerospace puts Oklahoma at the forefront of innovation in aviation, defense, and autonomous systems,” said Stitt. “We are committed to strengthening this dynamic industry, ensuring it continues to thrive and create top-tier jobs for Oklahomans.”
ODAA Executive Director Grayson Ardies stressed the importance of cross-sector collaboration in driving the industry forward.
“today was about speaking with a unified voice,” Ardies said. “By bringing together industry, military, and education partners, we’ve shown our elected officials the massive impact this industry has on every corner of our state.”
Lawmakers also highlighted the value of direct engagement between businesses and policymakers. Kelly Hines, Chair of the Legislature’s Aerospace Caucus, said such discussions were instrumental in shaping policy direction.
“Aerospace Day gives policymakers the chance to listen and learn from industry leaders, service members and so many others who have insight into how we continue to grow the state’s second-largest industry,” said Hines. “Those conversations help guide our work in the Legislature and within the Aerospace Caucus as we look for innovative ways to keep Oklahoma competitive in aviation, aerospace and national defense while adding jobs and investment across this burgeoning sector. This industry is already soaring, but we’re committed to taking it to new heights.”
Military ties and private sector innovation strengthen outlook
The state’s strong military presence was also cited as a key differentiator. Nicole Miller, Vice Chair of the Aerospace Caucus, pointed to the close relationship between defence installations and private industry.
“Our military personnel are the backbone of Oklahoma’s aerospace success, and their strong collaboration with private industry sets our state apart,” said Miller. “These partnerships not only strengthen national security but also position Oklahoma to continue growing and competing in the aerospace sector.”
From the private sector, Chris Pearson of AGILE Space Industries said the technologies on display reflected a broader shift in capability and ambition.
“AERO Oklahoma Day is a powerful demonstration of the synergy that makes this state an aerospace powerhouse,” Pearson said. “The technologies spotlighted today—from propulsion to autonomous systems—are the foundation for a new era of rapid, reliable access to space.”
Focus on skills pipeline and future workforce
Workforce development was another central theme, with a strong emphasis on science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.
Former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine highlighted the role of young talent in sustaining long-term growth.
“The students we met today at the Oklahoma State Capitol are the very individuals who will build the technologies and lead the missions that define the next era of exploration and national defense,” said Bridenstine. “By investing in their STEM education now, we are ensuring that Oklahoma’s next generation is not just watching history. They are the ones making it.”
Students were given direct access to industry professionals and Oklahoma Air National Guard personnel, reinforcing efforts to align education pathways with industry needs.
Paula Kedy, ODAA statewide aerospace STEM education manager, said the engagement demonstrated readiness among the next generation.
“Seeing students engage with these leaders reinforces that our future talent is ready,” said Kedy. “We’re bridging the gap between the classroom and the flight line to ensure Oklahoma’s students have the foundation to fuel aerospace in our state.”
Investment surge signals continued expansion
Organisers pointed to strong investment data as further evidence of momentum within the sector. Oklahoma’s aerospace and defence industry attracted $450m in new private capital over the past year, representing a 300% increase on the previous year.
The growth has been driven by 37 new or expanding businesses, with projections indicating the creation of 1,325 high-skilled jobs. The figures underscore Oklahoma’s positioning as a competitive destination for aerospace investment, spanning traditional aviation through to autonomous and space technologies.
As AERO Oklahoma Day concluded, stakeholders emphasised that the combination of policy alignment, private investment and workforce development is helping to secure the state’s role in the global aerospace market—one that, increasingly, is defined by rapid innovation and intensifying competition.
