Oklahoma Launches New Talent Accelerator to Strengthen Workforce Pipeline

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma Talent Accelerator website is now live, connecting employers, workers, and training providers to high-demand career pathways. The program is supported by a $6 million grant from the U.S. Department of Labor and aims to increase access to training, job creation, and wages across three key industries.

The initiative helps employers offset up to 80% of training costs, expands access to industry-aligned programs for workers, and strengthens partnerships with learning providers to meet Oklahoma’s evolving workforce needs.

The grant is focused on aerospace & defense, advanced manufacturing and AI infrastructure.

Employers and organizations interested in participating or learning more about this grant opportunity are encouraged to sign up at www.guild.com/oktalent, where they can share their workforce needs and begin the enrollment process.

This new workforce initiative is led by the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission and will be operationalized through a partnership with Guild, a workforce development company.

"Guild is excited to be part of the Oklahoma Talent Accelerator and support Oklahoma employers and learners," said Lisa Boyd, Senior Director of Strategic Partnerships with Guild. "This program creates real opportunities for businesses to grow talent and for workers to advance their careers through targeted, industry-driven training."

"This is a major step forward for workforce development in our state," said DeDe Smith, Vice President of Workforce Services at the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission. "We’re proud to partner on an effort that aligns employers, education, and resources to deliver stronger outcomes for Oklahoma’s workforce and economy."

Employers can learn more or sign up at www.guild.com/oktalent.