AERO OKLAHOMA WELCOMES 1,000 OKLAHOMANS TO STATE CAPITOL FOR AEROSPACE ADVOCACY DAY
By Katelyn Wade
The purpose of “AERO Oklahoma” Aviation, Aerospace and Defense Day is to recognize Oklahoma’s aviation, aerospace, and defense industry as a vital economic engine for our state. As Oklahoma's second-largest industry, aerospace and defense has a significant impact on the lives of our citizens. It is an annual, unique occasion for Oklahoma’s military members, industry leaders, private and commercial pilots, airport managers, municipal officials, drone pilots, educators, flying clubs, and the many users of the Oklahoma Airport System to come together. With the opportunity to meet one-on-one with state legislators and other elected officials to remind them of Oklahoma’s strong aviation heritage and show them firsthand how the industry continues to solidify our state as a worldwide leader in aviation, aerospace, and defense.
Presented annually by the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics with a special presentation this year from American Airlines, alongside the Oklahoma Air and Space Forces Association, Oklahoma City Innovation District, Oklahoma Defense Industry Association, Oklahoma Commerce, Oklahoma Transportation, Oklahoma CareerTech, Pratt & Whitney, Boeing, Critical Components, Consolidated Turbine Specialists - a Kratos Company, Gilchrist Aviation Law and the Oklahoma National Guard.
“It was truly an honor to address Oklahoma’s industry professionals, military officials, aviation students, business owners, legislators, and hundreds of other distinguished guests as we recognized the continued success and growth of our state’s aerospace, aviation and defense industries,” Rosino said. “With this industry well on its way to becoming Oklahoma’s top economic driver, I look forward to seeing what opportunities lie ahead for our workforce, economy, and the state as a whole.”
60+ exhibitor booths welcomed over 1,000 visitors, 300 students and 200 military personnel as state leaders addressed the crowd including Speaker Charles McCall, Col. Abigail Ruscetta with Tinker Air Force Base, Greg Emerson, American Airlines, First Native American in Space, Commander John Herrington, and air and space historian Bill Moore. The aviation, aerospace, and defense community were welcomed with remarks about the important economic impact this industry provides to the state.
“Of all the industry accomplishments highlighted at Aero Day, I’m proudest of our statewide initiatives that will ensure our military installations, airports, and MRO facilities can employ skilled professionals from right here in Oklahoma,” said Oklahoma Senator Adam Pugh. “The continued growth of these industries would not be possible without our partners in school districts and Career Techs across the state who have worked to fill the workforce pipeline. On this Aero Day, let us not only celebrate the current accomplishments of this industry but let us celebrate the future opportunities to come for the individuals and businesses who call our state home.”
This year, the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics commemorated the contributions of Lt. General Tom Stafford to the aviation and aerospace industry.
“Aero Day at the Capitol is a testament to the powerhouse that this industry represents in Oklahoma,” said Executive Director Grayson Ardies, of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics. “Our state is fueled by the legacy of heroes like General Tom Stafford. Leadership is forging the path for growth in our state. We are on the trajectory for aerospace to be Oklahoma’s #1 industry, and when we come together for advocacy and collaboration, we solidify our commitment to achieving that goal.”
“Last week was Aero Day at the Capitol! Thank you so much to all the businesses and individuals that came out for this amazing event,” said Oklahoma Senator John Haste. “Aero day is incredibly important as it gives aerospace and defense businesses from around the state a chance to discuss important topics with legislators and other state leaders. With aerospace being our second largest and fastest-growing business sector, it’s important that we take opportunities to hear from leaders in this innovative industry.”
"Aerospace Day gives everyone at the State Capitol an opportunity to show appreciation for the multitude of aerospace and aeronautics businesses and workers that call Oklahoma home," said Oklahoma Representative Nicole Miller. "This second-largest industry in Oklahoma employs tens of thousands of state residents and has a huge economic impact. I'm delighted to see the continued growth and widespread support of aerospace and aeronautics, and I want to thank ODAA for all their work to help this industry thrive in Oklahoma."