Oklahoma is at a disadvantage when it comes to making informed decisions on education and our future workforce. The data currently gathered by multiple state agencies within the education and workforce space is not connected, creating the inability to measure the long-term effectiveness of education programs and workforce readiness.
On May 14, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Petroleum Club, the Chamber will host its May Chamber Forum event focused on Oklahoma City’s economic development potential, featuring insightful discussions with Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater and the newly appointed senior vice president of economic development, Dennis Pruitt.
Unemployment in the Oklahoma City metro area remained low through the early months of 2025, with slight increases in January and February. Despite the month-to-month changes, the area continued its streak of unemployment below 4%, a sign of ongoing labor market stability both locally and across much of the state.
The Oklahoma City Council unanimously approved a resolution supporting the city’s role in hosting Canoe Slalom and Softball during the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.
Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global reaffirmed the City of Oklahoma City’s highest possible bond ratings, citing strong financial management and stability.
Oklahoma City recorded the second-largest jump in rankings on the Milken Institute’s 2025 Best-Performing Cities list, rising 86 spots from 144th to 58th.
Oklahoma is attracting thousands of new residents each year, drawn by its affordable housing, job opportunities, and quality of life. In 2023 alone, more than 25,000 people moved to the state, according to a recent migration study by StorageCafe using the latest U.S. Census data. This steady influx placed Oklahoma among the top 10 states for net migration.
In this month’s Leadership Notes, Chamber President and CEO Christy Gillenwater discusses how incentive programs are essential to fueling Oklahoma City’s growth and economic development.
