Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance

Oklahoma innovation is often built one practical solution at a time.

That comes through clearly in the first installment of OCAST's new Voices of Innovation series, which spotlights Spencer Smith, Director of Operations for 4AG Manufacturing.

Based in Elk City, 4AG started with a simple idea rooted in real-world farming: build durable no-till equipment that solves problems farmers face every day. From gauge wheel tires and closing wheels to the Catch-All Bag, the company has grown by listening to customers, refining products and manufacturing solutions designed for long-term use.

Read more here: https://lnkd.in/dwxST4yj

OCAST’s story also highlights the value of the Oklahoma Grassroots Accelerator, supported by OCAST, and how mentorship, credibility and strategic connections can help an Oklahoma manufacturer sharpen what it has already built.

As OMA’s statewide partner, Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology (OCAST) plays an important role in strengthening Oklahoma’s innovation ecosystem. This new series is a great reminder that innovation is not limited to labs or large companies. It happens in the field, on the shop floor and inside Oklahoma businesses working to solve practical problems.

Oklahoma manufacturing is helping power a major national retail upgrade.

As Sam Royka reported for The Journal Record recently, HVAC systems manufactured in Norman will be part of Target’s $5 billion nationwide store investment. Five Oklahoma Target locations are scheduled for remodels, but the larger story for our state is the role of Bosch’s Norman operation, which produces York-branded HVAC systems for residential and light commercial use.

Bosch assumed ownership of the Norman plant as part of its 2025 acquisition of Johnson Controls’ residential and light commercial HVAC business, strengthening a manufacturing operation with a long footprint in Cleveland County. Now, equipment made in Norman will support Target’s effort to improve energy efficiency at stores across the country.

Read Royka's full story here: https://lnkd.in/geFjGZeg

That is the kind of manufacturing impact that often goes unnoticed. Customers may see new layouts, brighter lighting and updated pickup areas. What they may not see is the Oklahoma-made equipment helping those facilities operate more efficiently and reliably.

For Norman, that means manufacturing jobs tied directly to a national investment. For Oklahoma, it is another reminder that our industrial base reaches far beyond the state line.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

Quantum Space’s decision to establish a new spacecraft manufacturing facility in Tulsa is another strong signal that Oklahoma’s manufacturing future is moving into higher-tech, higher-skill territory.

The Maryland-based company, led by former NASA Administrator and former Oklahoma Congressman Jim Bridenstine, plans to manufacture large propulsion tanks and precision spacecraft parts at Tulsa International Airport. The facility will support production of the company’s Ranger spacecraft, a highly maneuverable platform designed for defense and commercial space operations.

The project is expected to begin with up to 50 high-skill jobs, with hiring in engineering, precision manufacturing, quality inspection and operations support. As production scales, Quantum Space expects the Tulsa operation to serve as a long-term manufacturing platform for spacecraft serving both national security and commercial customers.

That is advanced manufacturing in the clearest sense: CNC machining, friction stir welding, assembly and fabrication, non-destructive testing, pressure testing and the kind of precision production required for space systems. These are exactly the capabilities that connect Oklahoma’s aerospace heritage with the next generation of industrial growth.

Tulsa’s deep aerospace roots, skilled workforce and growing advanced manufacturing ecosystem helped make Oklahoma a natural fit for the company. The facility will be located in the historic former Spartan manufacturing facility at Tulsa International Airport, linking one of the region’s original aviation assets to one of the most rapidly evolving sectors in the global economy.

Read more here:
https://lnkd.in/gCjcBDdx
https://lnkd.in/g3NX9jqg
https://lnkd.in/g_H5awFd

For Oklahoma manufacturers, this announcement is bigger than one facility. It reinforces the state’s opportunity to compete in aerospace, defense, space systems and other high-value industries where precision, quality and technical talent matter. It also underscores why continued investment in workforce, technology adoption and advanced manufacturing capacity is so important to Oklahoma’s long-term economic strength.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

Tulsa’s manufacturing future is being built through stronger talent pipelines, advanced technologies and partnerships that connect industry needs with real career pathways.

OMA’s work with Tulsa Innovation Labs and other regional partners reflects a shared focus on strengthening the advanced manufacturing ecosystem. That starts with a clear understanding: manufacturers need skilled people, practical training models and stronger pathways into high-demand careers.

Tulsa Innovation Labs highlights several of those efforts in this story, including OMA’s Registered Apprenticeship Program. The program helps manufacturers build customized, work-based training that fits their operations while giving workers a structured path to grow in manufacturing.

The story also points to TARMAC, a partnership driven by OMA to help strengthen Oklahoma’s position in advanced manufacturing and unmanned aircraft systems. Through this effort, OMA is helping identify supply chain gaps, connect manufacturers with new opportunities and prepare smaller firms to compete in fast-growing technology sectors.

Advanced manufacturing is not a future concept. It is already here, creating high-skill careers in robotics, CNC machining, automation, 3D printing and other technology-driven fields.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

As advanced manufacturing evolves, so does the need for new skills, new pathways, and new partnerships.��

Through apprenticeship programs, industry collaboration, and strategic investments, Tulsa is building the talent pipeline needed to keep one of our most important industries growing. Because the future of manufacturing depends on the people building it.��

Read how Tulsa is retooling its manufacturing industry for the next generation:�https://www.tulsainnovationlabs.com/post/how-tulsa-is-retooling-its-manufacturing-industry-for-the-next-generation

More than 750 students and educators recently gathered at MidAmerica Industrial Park’s STEM Showcase to explore science, technology, engineering, and manufacturing through hands-on experiences and interactive learning.

The Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance was proud to be part of the event, with OMA’s Technical Services Team demonstrating collaborative robots and discussing how automation is shaping modern manufacturing across Oklahoma. Students had the chance to see advanced technology in action while learning about high-tech careers that are helping drive the future of industry.

Events like this help connect the next generation with real-world opportunities and show that today’s manufacturing environment is innovative, technology-focused, and full of possibilities.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

The Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance recently joined with the Oklahoma Association of Career and Employment Professionals on a unique workshop, “Empowering People: Building Career Pathways in Manufacturing.”

Developed by Harrison Consulting Group in partnership with Manufacturing Extension Partnership, the session focused on Oklahoma’s industrial landscape, in-demand career pathways, and how to better identify and translate transferable skills.

Participants also explored practical tools, including the Talent Pipeline Ecosystem asset map, to support career navigation and connect more Oklahomans to high-demand opportunities in manufacturing.

Relighting Route 66 takes more than nostalgia. It takes Oklahoma manufacturing.

As Ryan Gillan reports for KOTV - News On 6, a Tulsa-based neon company is helping bring iconic signs back to life ahead of the highway’s centennial, blending craftsmanship, engineering, and modern production techniques.

For Claude Neon, each sign requires design, fabrication, electrical work, and precision assembly, all core elements of advanced manufacturing. From restoring historic landmarks to creating new installations, the work highlights how manufacturing supports tourism, preserves history, and drives local economies.

Watch Gillan's report here: https://lnkd.in/d8esSHDx

It’s a reminder that manufacturing is not just found on factory floors. It’s shaping experiences, communities, and the identity of places like Tulsa.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

Congratulations to our own Jessica Mugg on being named to Oklahoma Magazine’s 2026 40 Under 40.

This recognition highlights young professionals who are shaping Oklahoma’s future through vision, service, and a commitment to something bigger than themselves.

Read more here: https://lnkd.in/ecHAz-KN

Jessica is OMA's Director of Business Development & Government Affairs. Her leadership and dedication to strengthening Oklahoma manufacturing reflect exactly what this honor represents. We're proud to have her on the team.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.

Momentum in Oklahoma manufacturing is showing up where it matters most: The shop floor. Global Machine Company is expanding in Muskogee, adding capacity, new equipment, and skilled jobs to meet its growing demand.

The precision metal fabrication and machine shop has operated in Oklahoma since 2004, serving industrial customers across the United States and international markets. This latest expansion includes construction of an additional facility and new equipment to support growth in fabrication and machining operations. The project is expected to create more than a dozen new jobs, including skilled welding positions that strengthen the state’s workforce.

This kind of investment reflects more than one company’s growth. It highlights the strength of Oklahoma’s manufacturing environment and the value of coordinated support. Partners including Port Muskogee and the Oklahoma Department of Commerce played a key role in supporting the expansion.

Read more here: https://lnkd.in/guat8eh6

It's a clear example of what happens when experienced manufacturers, local leadership, and targeted state programs align around growth. Companies are not just choosing Oklahoma. They are choosing to stay, expand, and invest for the long term.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚

State Senator Kristen Thompson was named Manufacturing Advocate of the Year during during a recent presentation alongside industry leaders.

The award honors individuals who demonstrate an outstanding commitment to advancing Oklahoma’s manufacturing industry through advocacy, policy leadership, and support for a strong business environment. Recipients play an important role in strengthening both the industry and the state’s overall economy.

In 2025, Sen. Thompson led efforts to advance legislation aimed at strengthening the framework that supports Oklahoma’s manufacturing industry. Her work helped improve alignment, accountability, and representation, ensuring that key organizations and initiatives are better positioned to serve manufacturers across the state and support long-term growth.

Her stewardship reflects a clear understanding that long-term economic success requires more than bold ideas, it depends on strong, well-structured strategies that deliver real-world results. Her thoughtful, steady leadership continues to help move Oklahoma industry forward.

𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐈𝐧𝐝𝐮𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲. 𝐒𝐭𝐫𝐨𝐧𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐎𝐤𝐥𝐚𝐡𝐨𝐦𝐚.