Google and OKC Thunder partner to expand AI access in Oklahoma

Google and the Oklahoma City Thunder announced a partnership to expand artificial intelligence training and resources across Oklahoma. The effort is part of Google’s $5 million statewide investment to give students and workers practical AI and job-ready skills. 

The announcement came during the AI Business Summit, hosted by Google and the Thunder. The event featured discussions on national and state AI programs, hands-on demonstrations and training tools for business and education. More than 150 professionals from sectors including business, education, healthcare and technology attended. 

U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice said the partnership supports Oklahoma’s long-term economic growth. 

“To maintain our economic strength, we must equip our workforce with the skills of tomorrow,” Bice said. “This collaboration between Google and the Thunder is a powerful commitment to that goal, funding critical AI training for our educators, students and workers. It’s about building a diverse, homegrown talent pipeline that ensures every Oklahoman has the chance to succeed in the AI-driven world.” 

U.S. Sen. Markwayne Mullin said the project positions the state to lead in AI innovation. 

“AI is the next great opportunity for Oklahoma’s economy,” Mullin said. “We are grateful to Google and the Oklahoma City Thunder for their commitment to Oklahoma students and businesses, to ensure our workforce is not only ready for this transformation but is in a position to lead it.” 

Google has operated in Oklahoma for nearly 20 years, with major data centers in Pryor and a new campus underway in Stillwater as part of a $9 billion national investment announced in August. In 2024, Google’s technologies supported more than $2.2 billion in economic activity for Oklahoma businesses, publishers, nonprofits, creators and developers. 

Google’s latest investment with the Thunder will help develop new AI-focused student programs, training for educators and technology solutions that support business growth statewide. 

“This collaboration unites two global brands with a shared vision: to accelerate the responsible use of AI in education and innovation,” said Will Syring, Thunder vice president of corporate partnerships. “By combining our strengths, we’re empowering learners, educators and creators here in Oklahoma to unlock new possibilities and shape a smarter, more connected future.” 

The collaboration builds on Google’s broader education initiatives in Oklahoma. The University of Oklahoma and Oklahoma State University participate in the Google AI for Education Accelerator, which gives students, faculty and staff free access to Google Career Certificates and AI training courses. 

As part of the initiative, Google will also help launch a new Master of Science in AI at Oklahoma State University, expand workforce development with the Center for Employment Opportunities and Atlas School, and support the Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance’s digital badging program so students can verify and share their skills. 

“OSU’s collaboration with Google reflects our commitment to enhancing hands-on learning opportunities for our students and cultivating relationships that advance OSU’s land-grant mission across the state,” said Kyle Wray, OSU senior vice president for system affairs. “As the state’s leader in workforce development and continuing education, OSU is uniquely positioned to empower students to land not just jobs but fulfilling careers, and this is just another positive example of how we’re expanding higher education opportunities for all Oklahomans.” 

“Google’s support sends a powerful message: that innovation must include everyone,” said Sam Schaeffer, CEO of the Center for Employment Opportunities. “By integrating AI education into reentry programming, people returning home from incarceration have a real opportunity to thrive in the modern economy. Google’s leadership ensures that justice-impacted individuals in Oklahoma aren’t left behind but instead equipped to lead in a workforce transformed by technology.” 

"We’re supporting organizations across the state that are providing the critical training needed to build a strong foundation of local talent, empowering local businesses to grow with AI today and creating new career pathways for tomorrow,” said Jeremy Dautenhahn, Google’s head of cloud for the Southeast region. “Together with the Oklahoma City Thunder and other local organizations, we’re helping to develop a diverse and skilled workforce that will drive the next generation of innovation and power Oklahoma's economic future." 

Google technologies such as Search, YouTube, Google Cloud and Workspace continue to power innovation in the state. The State of Oklahoma uses Google Cloud AI to modernize agency operations, while small businesses such as Family Vision Care of Ponca City use Gemini for Google Workspace to better support patient care decisions.