Future workforce grows with OKC FAME signing event

As Oklahoma City’s manufacturing sector continues to expand, a new generation of skilled workers is stepping up to power that growth. On July 7, the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber celebrated the latest milestone for its workforce development efforts with a special signing event for Oklahoma’s first chapter of the nationally recognized Federation for Advanced Manufacturing Education (OKC FAME) program. 

“While this initiative is still in its very early stages, we’re thrilled about the opportunity that FAME presents to the learners that are beginning their journey and the investment of our employer partners in this long-term vision for manufacturing talent in Oklahoma City,” said Lee Copeland, director of talent partnerships for the Chamber. 

Held at the OSU-OKC Advanced Manufacturing Lab—built specifically to train students in advanced manufacturing—the event marked an important moment for both the students and the region’s employers.

The OKC FAME program, launched by the Chamber in fall 2024, combines classroom instruction with paid, hands-on training at local manufacturing companies. Students earn a two-year degree in engineering technology from OSU-OKC while gaining valuable work experience—helping fill the region’s need for highly skilled talent in a growing industry. 

“Our first cohort has surpassed the halfway mark in their program and are exhibiting significant growth as professionals and future technicians,” Copeland said. “We are anxious to multiply this opportunity as we continue to add employer partners who want to grow their own best-in-class manufacturing talent.” 

After signing their commitments to both their employers and the program, students gathered with family and program partners for a small celebration, complete with cake and a chance to network with the employers and educators who will help guide their journey. 

Ronna Vanderslice, vice provost for academic affairs for the OSU System and interim provost and vice president for academic affairs at OSU-OKC, praised the students for taking on the challenge. 

“The program is rigorous, and it’s going to lead to a much brighter future for you,” Vanderslice said. “It’s going to be a tough two years. You’re going to dedicate a lot to this program, and it’s going to open so many doors. I want to congratulate all of the students.” 

With OKC’s manufacturing sector continuing to grow, the Chamber’s investment in workforce development through OKC FAME is helping ensure that local companies have the pipeline of talent they need—while giving students a clear, debt-reduced path to a high-demand career. 

If you’re a manufacturing employer and would like to find out more about joining the FAME Chapter as a partner, please visit our website at www.okcfame.com or reach out to the Chamber’s Director of Talent Partnerships Lee Copeland at [email protected].