Senators highlight Oklahoma’s fastest-growing industry at annual Aero Day

OKLAHOMA CITY- Sen. Paul Rosino, R-Oklahoma City, and Sen. Adam Pugh, R-Edmond, joined the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics in promoting Oklahoma’s second largest and fastest-growing industry during AERO Day at the state Capitol. The industry provides more than 200,000 jobs across the state and generates upwards of $44 billion in economic activity annually.

“It was truly an honor to address Oklahoma’s industry professionals, military officials, aviation students, business owners, legislators, and hundreds of other distinguished guests as we recognized the continued success and growth of our state’s aerospace, aviation and defense industries,” Rosino said. “With this industry well on its way to becoming Oklahoma’s top economic driver, I look forward to seeing what opportunities lie ahead for our workforce, economy, and the state as a whole.”

Rosino and Pugh, both veterans, also shared the importance of Oklahoma’s military installations on a national and global scale. Oklahoma is one of seven MRO centers across the globe and is a leader in military aircraft repair. Additionally, they highlighted the ongoing need for educational initiatives to sustain industry needs as further growth and expansion are expected.

“Of all the industry accomplishments we highlighted today, I’m proudest of our statewide initiatives that will ensure our military installations, airports, and MRO facilities can employ skilled professionals from right here in Oklahoma,” Pugh said. “The continued growth of these industries would not be possible without our partners in school districts and Career Techs across the state who have worked to fill the workforce pipeline. On this Aero Day, let us not only celebrate the current accomplishments of this industry but let us celebrate the future opportunities to come for the individuals and businesses who call our state home.”

For more information, visit oklahoma.gov/aerospace.

-END-

For more information, contact:

Sen. Rosino at (405) 521-5618 or Paul.Rosino@oksenate.gov.

Sen. Pugh at (405) 521-5622 or Adam.Pugh@oksenate.gov.