OKSTEP Programs Administrator
Randall "Bud" Coon, a distinguished veteran of the United States Air Force, served honorably from 1987 to 2007, participating in pivotal missions during the Gulf War, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. Throughout his dedicated service at five different bases worldwide, one noteworthy assignment was with the 654th Combat Logistics Support Squadron (654 CLSS).
During his tenure at Tinker Air Force Base, Randall played a crucial role in performing depot-level maintenance on the B-1 Bomber, offering essential backup support for the B-52, C-135, and the B2 Stealth Bomber during his deployments totaling over 700 days. Upon retiring from the USAF, Randall applied his skills as a Surveillance Manager at 7 Clans First Council Casino & Hotel Casino. Subsequently, he transitioned to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, serving as a Local Veteran Employment Representative in Northwest Oklahoma.
In August 2021, Randall joined the Oklahoma Department of Veterans Affairs (ODVA) with a pivotal role in developing the Oklahoma Specific Transition Education Program (OKSTEP) as its Veterans Employment Program Administrator. OKSTEP, under Randall's leadership, stands out as a distinctive and pioneering program that provides veterans and servicemembers with continuous support in discovering opportunities within the state of Oklahoma. Notably, OKSTEP's unique feature lies in its commitment to offering lifetime eligibility for veterans, differentiating it from conventional transition programs that typically support veterans only during their initial transition to civilian life.
Randall and his wife, Rebecca, dedicate their free time to their grandchildren and pursue their passion for fishing. However, a significant portion of their time is devoted to operating "The Veterans Landing" in Ponca City, a venture established in 2017 to serve and bring comfort to veterans from all branches of the military. Their commitment to the veteran community exemplifies their unwavering dedication beyond their distinguished military and professional careers.
