Dr. Robertson assumes role as 2026 Chamber chair and vows to help build a healthy regional community
Dr. Cliff Robertson, president and CEO of Saint Francis Health System, took the reins as 2026 Tulsa Regional Chamber chair at the organization’s Annual Meeting & Inauguration. See story on page 6.
EDITOR
Tim Chambers
Senior Vice President of Communications, Creative Services & Events
PUBLICATION AND DESIGN
Bryan Campbell Director of Creative Services
Taylor White Senior Graphic Designer
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Rhett Morgan Director of Communications
Althea Norman Communications Manager
Jonathan Huskey Senior Director of Communications Tulsa Regional Tourism
CONTRIBUTING
Apex Marketing
Mike Creef
Neek Films
Rip Stell
Patrick Quiring
Tulsa Regional News keeps you informed on the latest business and community happenings from across the city and around the region.
by Amilia Sedin-Chan
LANKFORD ADDRESSES POLICY, ECONOMY AND AI AT FIRST CONGRESSIONAL FORUM OF 2026
U.S. Sen. James Lankford kicked off the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s first Congressional Forum of 2026 with a wide-ranging discussion on key issues, including the partial government shutdown, tax policy and the growing role of artificial intelligence. Speaking to nearly 280 attendees, Lankford offered insight into current negotiations on Capitol Hill, highlighted provisions of the Working Families Tax Cut Act, aimed at supporting small businesses and working families and emphasized the importance of balancing innovation with ethical considerations as AI continues to evolve.
TYPROS KICKS OFF 2026 WITH STRONG ENGAGEMENT AND NEW MOMENTUM
TYPROS entered 2026 with renewed momentum, delivering a standout first quarter marked by record participation, growing engagement and a clear path forward. Pub Club events drew average crowds of 100 attendees, signaling strong interest and serving as a powerful entry point for new members. Deeper involvement builds, as evidenced by a record number of Get On Board applications and a strong turnout for TYPROS’ first paid professional development luncheon. With fresh energy, a sharpened vision and increasing participation across networking, leadership and development opportunities, TYPROS is building meaningful pathways for young professionals to move from connection to intentional impact, positioning the initiative for a strong and unstoppable year.
NEW TPD PATROL DIVISION SET TO ENHANCE DOWNTOWN PUBLIC SAFETY
The Tulsa Police Department announced plans to establish a fourth patrol division focused on downtown and surrounding areas, marking the department’s first new division in more than 35 years. Set to launch at the end of August, the new division will serve the Inner Dispersal Loop (IDL), Gathering Place, Cherry Street, the Historic Greenwood and Pearl districts, as well as nearby neighborhoods by maximizing existing staffing levels to better meet the area’s growing demands. City and Chamber leaders emphasized that the move reflects downtown’s rapid growth, increased residential and business activity and the need for a stronger, more visible public safety presence in one of Tulsa’s most active economic and cultural centers.
TULSA STARTUP TAKES FLIGHT IN DRONE INDUSTRY
Tulsa startup EnCor highlighted its entry into the commercial drone sector during a recent TRC Technology Council meeting, outlining efforts to provide low-cost, domestically produced drones for first responders. Founded by Wesley Stevens, EnCor is positioning itself as a U.S.-based alternative in an industry largely dominated by foreign manufacturers. The presentation underscored Tulsa’s growing role in advanced manufacturing and technology innovation while also highlighting how local startups are responding to national security and public safety needs.
BOOMING SOONERS
Joseph Harroz Jr., president of the University of Oklahoma, outlined the university’s rapid growth and priorities during a recent TRC Executive Committee meeting, noting that OU is now the nation’s fourth fastest-growing research university with $517 million in annual research expenditures and a goal of reaching $1 billion within five years. Freshmen enrollment has increased more than 30 percent in three years, with total enrollment expected to surpass 40,000 within 18 months while the average cost for Oklahoma students has dropped 27 percent over the past six years. Harroz highlighted OU’s focus on healthcare, energy, severe weather and national security, along with the continued expansion of OU Health and the Stephenson Cancer Center. n
Dr. Robertson assumes role as 2026 Chamber chair and vows to help build a healthy regional community
At the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Annual Meeting and Inauguration, new Tulsa Regional Chamber chair and president and CEO of Saint Francis Health System Dr. Cliff Robertson said he wants to build “A Healthy Region al Community” by focusing on three objectives.
Before a crowd of more than 1,200 at the Arvest Convention Center, Robertson spelled out those goals: helping the Chamber educate and mobilize the business community by hosting quarterly briefings focused on public safety; recruiting out-of-region talent; and advancing the conversation around mental health as infrastructure and supporting efforts that improve regional awareness, access and coordination.
Robertson said the public briefings should include large Tulsa-area employers, hospital
“Reducing the impact of homelessness is not at all about assigning blame or pointing fingers,” he said. “It’s about understanding reality, sharing responsibility and ensuring decisions are informed by the experiences of employers, employees and of course, community members.
"Visible homelessness is what our community sees and experiences. Addressing visible homelessness will require that we lean in as a Chamber to ensure our community’s approach is aligned with and supportive of the organizations that are focused both on providing care and supporting those with complex needs.”
Moving to his mental health focus, Robertson said the Chamber will promote education within the business community to help people with those disorders.
“As someone who has spent a career in health care, I know firsthand that many of those that are living on our streets are suffering with severe mental illness,” the chair said. “If we, as a community, want to minimize homelessness, we need to
Regarding economic development, Robertson said the long-term health of the region depends on existing companies, adding that businesses can only grow if they build talent pipelines that connect education, training and opportunity.
“At Saint Francis, we talk about this all the time; Tulsa is a great community that isn’t always fully understood outside our region, and that can create challenges for employers who are working to attract skilled professionals from out of our area,” he said. “My challenge to our Chamber staff is to create a digital repository of positive, credible content about Tulsa and Oklahoma — a resource employers can use to tell a clear and compelling story about
“With the Chamber already showcasing Tulsa’s quality of life through its Visit Tulsa brand, this new repository will help employers more easily connect the dots for prospective talent considering a move to our region.”
Robertson also stressed the critical roles that Chamber initiatives such as Community Development, Government Affairs and Regional Tourism will play in Tulsa’s growth.
2025 Chamber Chair Bill Knight (right) congratulates his successor during the 2026 Annual Meeting & Inauguration.
He announced that Community Development’s annual Intercity Visit this year will be in Kansas City, Mo., a World Cup host city.
Tulsa also will benefit from the exposure generated by the continuing nationwide Outsiders’ tour and the Route 66 Centennial, a centerpiece of which will be the potential Guinness World Record-setting attempt Capital Cruise in Tulsa on May 30.
“The goal is 3,000 cars cruising 5.5 miles of the Mother Road,” Robertson said of the classic car parade. “This will attract thousands of visitors, garner millions of media impressions and capture playmaking imagery to promote our stretch of Route 66 for the next 100 years.”
The new chair said the Chamber can’t ensure long-term regional health without the involvement of its membership.
“I invite each of you to participate in the Chamber’s efforts to create a healthy region,” Robertson said. “Participate in public safety and community briefings, learn about the needs of our mental health providers, contribute stories and data to the talent resource hub and stay engaged in the OneVoice process as we move throughout the year ahead. If you do it often enough, our community will build muscle memory, grow and get stronger.
“Contributing to the health of our community requires you to exercise the opportunities that are offered to you. This is the time to step up and play a role in building A Healthy Regional Community.” n
At the 2026 Annual Meeting & Inauguration, Bill Knight, the Chamber’s immediate past chair, presented awards to the organization’s most outstanding partners in 2025:
Economic Development Partner of the Year: Jim Bridenstine, The Artemis Group
Regional Tourism Partner of the Year: Kirk Hays, Arvest Bank
Government Affairs Partners of the Year:
Oklahoma Sen. John Haste, Oklahoma Rep. Toni Hasenbeck & Oklahoma Sen. Ally Seifried
Community Development Partner of the Year: Lauren Miers, TYPROS 2025 Chair
Resource Development Partner of the Year: Nicole Morgan, Resolute PR
Regional Partner of the Year: David Stewart and MidAmerica Industrial Park
Lifetime Achievement Award: Alan Armstrong, Williams
Strong healthcare, Strong community.
We look forward to lighting the way to a healthier tomorrow with the Tulsa Regional Chamber as a partner.
COLORADO-BASED COMPANY BREAKS GROUND ON $20M PHASE OF SPACE TEST CENTER IN TULSA
by Rhett Morgan, Director of Communications for the Tulsa Regional Chamber
The significance of a planned $20 million Space Test Center in Tulsa cannot be overstated, officials said at the project’s groundbreaking in late January.
Colorado-based Agile Space Industries is establishing the multi-phase, hot-fire rocket engine test facility designed to address a critical shortage of altitude-capable propulsion testing infrastructure for the global space industry. That sector exceeds $600 billion and is expected to surpass more than $1 trillion by 2040.
“This is a moment in time where I think we absolutely 10 years from now will be looking at not just this facility, but we hope future expansions, as well,” Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell said at the groundbreaking for the project, which will be located on acreage adjacent to Tulsa International Airport.
“Yes, we are a global player when it comes to space, the
space race, all the innovation that’s out there, the space economy.
“…We’re not talking about multiple billions. We’re talking about trillions and trillions of dollars. And Tulsa, America is going to be the centerpiece of that.”
Built on more than 12 years of propulsion testing heritage at Agile Space Industries, the Space Test Center will provide high-throughput testing services for small to medium-class rocket engines supporting commercial, civil and national security space missions.
“The Space Test Center is the first $20 million step in a $200 million propulsion testing ecosystem,” said Nick Aadland, technical manager at the Space Test Center.
“This facility is intentionally scalable, built to seed a new space industry hub in Oklahoma and close a critical national gap in modern in-space propulsion test capacity.”
Working with partners such as the City of Tulsa and The Artemis Group, the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s economic development team spent about 18 months helping recruit Agile to Tulsa.
“This facility will be a catalyst for economic growth,” said Justin McLaughlin, executive vice president and chief operating officer for the Chamber. “It will create high-quality jobs, attract talent and help establish Tulsa and northeast Oklahoma as a hub for space-related research, testing and satellite manufacturing.
“Just as importantly, it will help build a broader ecosystem, one that includes suppliers, engineers, researchers and entrepreneurs, all of whom will contribute to the emerging space sector here in Oklahoma.”
The Artemis Group is led by former NASA Administrator Jim Bridenstine, who served as the U.S. Representative for Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District from January 2013 to April 2018.
Bridenstine spoke in January of the importance of maintaining American pre-eminence in space.
“What we’re doing here today is not just about Tulsa; it’s not just about Oklahoma,” he said. “It’s about the United States of America and making sure we are the strongest, safest country on the planet.”
Construction of Agile’s Space Test Center is expected to be completed in 2027. n
by Rhett Morgan, Director of Communications for the Tulsa Regional Chamber
When the Tulsa Regional Chamber piloted its Women’s Program Series in September, the Chamber staff noticed a distinct change in ambiance.
“People walked into that event differently than they walk into regular Chamber events,” said Allison Walden, senior vice president of the Chamber’s Resource Development division. “People made comments like, ‘Wow, this is the first time I haven’t worn a suit to a Chamber event ever.’
“They felt like they could be a little more relaxed because it was a women’s event. There was a level of ease in the room I’d never seen before.”
Alaina Wilson, a senior member engagement manager in Resource Development, agreed.
“A lot of women feel more comfortable around women,” she said. “The mood was very easygoing. Everybody was enjoying themselves. It was hard to get everyone to find their seat because they were all just having a great time.”
They still are.
Boosted by the success of the Women’s Programming Series (WPS) soft launch, the Chamber officially debuted the 2026 programming lineup Feb. 26 at the Tulsa Club Hotel, drawing about 220 attendees.
Close to 300 are expected at the next WPS gathering April 23 at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, and the final event of the year at the Mayo Hotel (Sept. 24) is poised to attract north of 340.
Author and The Leader Lab founder Tracy Spears, featured speaker at both the WPS preview and kickoff, said the Chamber is scratching a long-neglected itch.
“For a long time, we wouldn’t acknowledge that it was different for women in leadership,” she said. “I was only female vice president out of 34 in my company and I would say, ‘It’s no different; you just have to work hard.’
“Now, we all know differently. We all know that because there is a lot of bias in the way that we interact with each other. There are generational things that we all learn from our parents, our moms.”
Women remain underrepresented at every level of the corporate pipeline — especially in senior leadership, where they make up just 29 percent of C-suite roles, according to a joint study by McKinsey and LeanIn. org in 2025.
“I think it’s just breaking that generational cycle,” Spears said. “It is trying to balance confidence and competence and being likable. There’s the likability conundrum that women suffer from that typically men don’t.
“The more likable you are, the less credible you are. The more credible you are, the less likable you are. There are a lot of things at play. We have gotten so many mixed messages about what we need to do to be effective.”
Spears’ Chamber presentations have urged women to stand up and make themselves heard.
“What’s different now than when I was in corporate America is I don’t think people are trying to be oppressive,” she said. “I don’t think they’re trying to say we don’t want women. I think what they’re saying is step up. Show up with some confidence.
“I think it’s on us to take the seats that we’re invited to. Only we can do that. We have to get better so we’re more prepared.”
EVENT ORIGINS
The Women’s Programming Series grew out of a desire to hold more free or affordable Chamber events that were member-exclusive.
Key to those conversations was Nicole Morgan, 2025 vice chair of Resource Development and CEO of Resolute PR.
“Allison felt like there was another opportunity that could be tapped into,” said Morgan, a member of the Chamber board’s executive committee. “She just said, ‘I feel like we’re missing something.’”
The all-women staffs of the Chamber’s Resource Development team and Resolute met for a brainstorming session, and challenged by Walden to create a new program, Wilson leaned on vendor relationships and trade to produce a kickoff event that maxed out the capacity of the Discovery Lab, the meeting venue.
Further, the WPS already is up to 24 sponsors leading up to its second official event, which will feature award-winning and bestselling author Meg Myers Morgan later this month.
‘WE
WANT IT TO
BE ABOUT LEADERSHIP’
“We don’t want to be inherently female with our content,” Walden said. “We want it to be about business.
“We’re not going to have perfume smelling. We’re not going to have lipstick sampling. We want it to be about leadership. We want it to be authentic to the Chamber’s brand.”
February’s WPS event exceeded expectations, with Spears’ messages generating laughter and lively conversations.
It also drew praise from attendees such as Whitney Stauffer, partner at Narrate Design, and Kate Cottrill, owner of Ihloff Salon and Spa.
“We’re really good at what we do, and we’re really good leaders,” said Stauffer, a Chamber board member. “This is kind of a testament to what women are craving. It also is a safe room to feel that and step into that and realize, ‘I do know what I’m doing. I can do this.’ I think it’s so important.”
As does Cottrill.
“I like the size of the event, and I like that when I’m sitting at the table, I’m connecting with other people,” she said. “It’s like-minded people being together and empowering. Why wouldn’t I want to be here for that?” n
We asked travelers to TUL us about it.
What surprises us most? How little we have to worry.
It’s because travelers feel it the moment they arrive. It’s the parking spot that’s actually close. The security lines that move fast. The friendly faces who don’t just scan your ticket – they say hi, smile, and mean it. It’s the clean, welcoming spaces, the tasty eats, and the simple joy of feeling like someone actually thought about what you need when traveling. Whether you’re ying for business, family, or fun, people love TUL because it’s the way travel was meant to be.
Your Easygoing Ga teway
Frequently referred to as the "front door" to economic development, tourism has a significant impact in our region and throughout Oklahoma. This brief quarterly “visit” with Tulsa Regional Tourism, an initiative of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, aims to spotlight some of our community’s unique, successful and upcoming activities in this exciting industry and show it supports your business and quality of life.
VISIT TULSA - LEISURE TRAVEL
Tulsa’s Route 66 Centennial Celebration Capital Cruising right along Tulsa’s Route 66 Capital Cruise: World Record Classic Car Centennial Parade is an official GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS® attempt set for May 30, 2026. Capital Cruise broke the 2,000-registration mark at the end of March, with 2,008 drivers signed up as of March 30, leaving the cruise just 483 shy of the existing world record set in 2017. Those 2,008 drivers represent 36 states and Canada, making Capital Cruise a true global event.
Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell, Tulsa Mayor Monroe Nichols, best-selling author and Route 66 historian Michael Wallis and Derek Bieri of the massively popular YouTube channel Vice Grip Garage are the grand marshals of the parade, which will roll out from Tulsa’s Expo Square at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 30.
Bieri will personally restore the car he will drive in the parade, and afterward, it will be auctioned off, with the proceeds going to benefit Tulsa Mayfest.
While the record attempt, now boasting 16 party zones, is set for Saturday, the fun starts Thursday, May 28. From 2-8 p.m., Tulsa’s Expo Square will be the site of the Capital Cruise Expo, with vendors, activations and early drive and volunteer pick-up. That continues on Friday, May 29, beginning at 10 a.m., and then at 4 p.m., the Capital Cruise Tailgate, sponsored by Bank of Oklahoma kicks off. A “tire kick” will let people get an up-close-and-personal look at some of the record-breaking cars, and there also will be live music and a Tulsa Kids Market. Both days are completely free and open to the public!
One year in, Tulsans #SavvyTulsa
Just over a year after launch, the groundbreaking tourism ambassador program SavvyTulsa is thriving, continuing to equip Tulsans to tell the city’s story with warmth, confidence and authenticity.
Nearly 1,000 users have begun the course since its debut on Valentine’s Day of 2025, with more than 500 completing the course to become certified SavvyTulsans.
Users rave about the impact the learning module has made on their own understanding of their city:
“There was a lot of great information about all different aspects of Tulsa. I now have a better understanding of the sovereign nations.”
“I love the cultural section providing ideas of how residents and visitors can respectfully partake”
“Growing up in Tulsa has blinded me from seeing what is here and the growth it has made throughout my lifetime. ... Also, I knew Tulsa was diverse, but diving deeper into the history has taught me that Tulsa is built on resilience. This course made me love the city a lot more.”
Those who complete the course receive exclusive SavvyTulsa merch, invitations to SavvyTuesdays at Mother Road Market, where you can wear that exclusive merch for access to a secret $5 menu, and opportunities for behind-the-scenes and special tours of Tulsa gems through the Savvy UNLOCKED series. Sign up today at savvytulsa.com!
TULSA CVB - MEETINGS & CONVENTIONS
Tulsa set to Host 2026 Main Street Now Conference
In April, Tulsa will host the 2026 Main Street Now Conference, bringing leaders and experts in commercial district stewardship into town from all over the country.
Tulsa features four official Main Street Communities:
• Historic Greenwood District Main Street
• Kendall Whittier Main Street
• Tulsa Global District
• Tulsa Route 66 Main Street
Main Street Now will bring in visitors nationwide, giving them the opportunity to network with other professionals but also explore Tulsa and everything the city has to offer.
The Global District is a semifinalist for the Great American Main Street Award, which will be awarded during the opening plenary of the 2026 Main Street Now Conference on April 13.
TULSA SPORTS - PRO & AMATEUR
Florida edges OU in thrilling SEC gymnastics championships in Tulsa
The first Southeastern Conference Gymnastics Championships held in Tulsa will be one talked about for a long time.
With hometown favorite Oklahoma leading going into the final rotation, Florida stunned the Sooner-heavy crowd with a season-best 49.800 on uneven bars, helped by a perfect 10 from Selena Harris-Miranda, to nip No. 1 OU at the wire 198.175 - 198.150.
“We put all the pieces together today,” said Florida junior Kayla Dicello. “Everyone looked super confident out there, even from our practice from the day before. We took every turn that we needed and figured out the adjustments needed. This is how we look when we practice so I'm just super proud of everyone.”
Nearly 6,300 turned out for the championship, and several SEC school administrators said, “Tulsa did not disappoint.”
Despite falling just short of the SEC title, Oklahoma gymnastics capitalized on a strong showing in Tulsa to claim the No. 1 overall seed in the 2026 NCAA Championships.
Oklahoma State captures second straight title in another record-setting Big 12 Championships
For the 10th consecutive year, the Big 12 Wrestling Championships were held in Tulsa, and again, fans flocked to the BOK Center and set an attendance record.
With the schedule moved to Friday-Saturday from Saturday-Sunday as it had been in years past, a total of 7,044 fans attended Saturday’s finale, the highest-attended championship session in conference history.
Those fans got to watch Oklahoma State bring home its second straight Big 12 title and 21st tournament title overall.
OSU had eight wrestlers in the championship round and came away with four titles: Troy Spratley (125 pounds), Jax Forrest (133), Sergio Vega (141) and Casey Swiderski (149).
The 2026 Big 12 Wrestling Championships were estimated to make a total economic impact of nearly $2.5 million.
TULSA FMAC - CREATIVE INDUSTRIES
FILM - History made with Tulsa Film Incentive
In January, the Tulsa Office of Film, Music, Arts & Culture (FMAC) made city history by announcing the first Tulsa Film Incentive, continuing efforts to make Tulsa a premier film destination.
The incentive is designed to help attract film, television and digital media productions to the region, offering competitive financial assistance for projects that use Green Country as a home base.
Incentives begin with a five-percent rebate on productions with between $100,000 and $5 million in local spend, capped at $50,000. For projects with more than $5 million in local spend, rebates are capped at $75,000. The incentive will work in tandem with Oklahoma’s existing state and local rebates, enhancing overall value for producers who choose Tulsa for their projects. The Tulsa Film Incentive fund is capped at $400,000 for the first year and is available for applicants on a quarterly basis, funded through the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Bridge to the Future 2030 campaign, a program supported by nearly 130 investors.
“The addition of this incentive to the existing Oklahoma state rebate elevates Tulsa to an even higher competitive standing as a film and television
destination,” said Meg Gould, executive director of FMAC. “This will help create more industry jobs in the region, growing the overall local economy and increase Tulsa’s visibility on a global scale.”
To be eligible, production for a project must take place in the Tulsa Production Zone, defined as within a 30-mile radius from Tulsa City Hall, as well as meet certain qualifiers, including:
• Use of local music
• Hiring local crew who reside within 45 miles of Tulsa City Hall
• Use of local vendors
• Production office space in the Tulsa Production Zone
For more information, visit tulsafmac.com.
MUSIC - Tulsa takeover makes impact at SXSW
Tulsa FMAC once again took the Tulsa story on the road for the iconic film, music and innovation conference SXSW in Austin, Texas.
From March 12-18, FMAC represented Tulsa among the biggest creators in the world. Along with New York University, Cherokee Film and CEI, it hosted a “Film in Tulsa Filmmakers Happy Hour” that was attended by representatives of some of the biggest names in the film industry.
Also in Austin, Tulsa-based Rebellium Films debuted its latest feature-length project, Brian, a shot-in-Oklahoma film telling the story of “an acerbic high school student prone to panic attacks” who runs for class president “to get closer to the teacher he’s hopelessly in love with.”
Oklahoma’s All-American Rejects were featured in a “Conversation with All-American Rejects.” The group discussed its cutting-edge, sold-out House Party tour, including the unforgettable stop at WOMPA in Tulsa.
Tulsa FMAC wrapped up an incredible week with a special happy hour alongside Cherokee Film and NYU Tulsa.
ART - Get up close and personal with Andy Warhol Exhibit at Philbrook Museum of Art Through June, Philbrook Museum of Art is taking the exhibit off the walls and putting it into visitors’ hands! “Andy Warhol: Silver Clouds” is one of the most distinctive pieces of the eccentric artist and socialite’s career.
In 1964, Warhol became disillusioned with traditional painting and sculpture and created “Silver Clouds,” a gallery filled with virtually weightless balloons made of Scotchpak, a brand-new material at the time primarily used to wrap sandwiches. The Clouds are filled with a proprietary blend of air and helium, so they have enough lift to float but not so much as to get stuck at the ceiling.
The exhibit is meant to “encourage us to linger and experience the beauty and power hiding within the ordinary.”
“Andy Warhol: Silver Clouds” is open at Philbrook now and will be on display through June 14. n
Established in 1908, Tulsa Country Club is the city’s first private club, blending historic charm with modern amenities just minutes from downtown. With championship golf, vibrant social events, and newly renovated spaces, TCC is where tradition meets community in the heart of Tulsa
TYPROS TAKES DAY AT THE CAPITOL TO NEXT LEVEL
Professional development took a trip down the turnpike for TYPROS with a full day of events during OneVoice Day at the Capitol on March 9. by Althea Norman, Communications Manager for the Tulsa Regional Chamber
Fifteen of Tulsa’s Young Professionals, a Community Development initiative of the Tulsa Regional Chamber, first got to hear from a bi-partisan panel of six state representatives and state senators. Oklahoma Senators Jo Anna Dossett and Aaron Reinhardt and Oklahoma Representatives Arturo Alonso-Sandoval, Amanda Clinton, Daniel Pae and Trish Ranson spoke about why they ran for public office, shared lessons in professional communication and took questions from TYPROS members.
The legislators’ backgrounds ranged from public school teacher to media to insurance sales, but the message was consistent; relationships and involvement matter.
“If you’re part of your community and really plugged in, that goes a long way,” Rep. Clinton said.
And most importantly, voting is important.
“We need more educated voters at the polls, and we need more of them,” Sen. Reinhardt said, noting he won his first election by about 80 votes. “Your vote, your advocacy… know that you have the power.”
Rep. Ranson said it was important for state legislators to speak with voters of all ages because they bring a new perspective.
“Most people in elected office have no concept of what it’s like to be a young professional,” she said.
“You have the first-hand knowledge. You are an expert.”
One of the new initiatives for the TYPROS event this year was including the OneVoice Regional Legislative
Agenda. Sen. Dossett and Sen. Christi Gillespie both noted the importance of having hundreds contribute to this Chamber initiative.
“Thoughtful professionals who care have participated in this robust process,” Dossett said. “Many involved are my constituents, so that’s extremely comforting. It’s an extremely, extremely helpful reference point.” Sen. Gillespie agreed, noting that “it is so good to know that people within your region all working together is really impactful.”
Also, the Chamber’s Government Affairs team and TYPROS’ co-crew leaders of Government Affairs made presentations on ways to improve Oklahoma voter turnout and how to speak to legislators.
“Day at the Capitol is just an example of how TYPROS works proactively to make sure that the young professionals who will be leading the business and civic communities tomorrow are educated today,” TYPROS Executive Director Reagan Gowens said. “We’re thankful for the legislators we worked with who provided quality programs to educated young professionals on how to be involved and engaged.”
To further strengthen TYPROS’ connection with the Chamber, it joined the Chamber’s annual Legislative Reception.
“This year has been a very specific strategy to make sure that our TYPROS event aligns with our Chamber event,” said Jonathan Long, the Chamber’s senior vice president of community development. “What we want to do is to make sure young professionals have everything that they need to be able to advocate and understand how to voice their opinion to state legislators, but we also want to make sure to combine that with the logistics and the strategy that we use with OneVoice to be able to be so successful there. So, it’s really been the culmination of taking the ideas and the understandings and the things that young professionals are excited about and combining that with what we’ve been able to do with OneVoice to be successful." n
ONEVOICE AGENDA CENTRAL TO DAY AT THE CAPITOL DISCUSSIONS
by Althea Norman, Communications Manager for the Tulsa Regional Chamber
From transportation to health care to tourism, the OneVoice Day at the Capitol on March 10 brought many initiatives from the 2026 OneVoice Regional Legislative Agenda to the forefront at the Oklahoma State Capitol.
Approximately 150 attended the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s signature state advocacy trip, which included a reception that convened community leaders and local and state elected officials on March 9.
Katie Henke, senior vice president of government affairs for the Chamber, said being in Oklahoma City with a unified message to the state legislature is by design.
“Every time that we have the opportunity to come to the Capitol and show the faces behind the process; every time that we are able to share personal stories, it’s that much more impactful,” Henke said. “When the northeast Oklahoma regional business community can give concrete examples of showing how policy is affecting their businesses day-to-day, legislators listen, and that is how we effectively impact change to drive growth for our region and our state.”
The first panel, hosted at First National Center, focused on transportation corridors that drive growth, including upgrading the U.S. 412 corridor between Interstate 35, Tulsa and northwest Arkansas to federal interstate standards.
“Another interstate in Oklahoma is incredibly important,” said Tim Gatz, executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. “Oklahoma is, and always was, a transpor-
tation hub. We are critical not just to local freight, but the entire country’s. The corridors we have are incredibly important.”
Next, panelists discussing healthcare emphasized that mental health, as well as health care access for both rural and urban areas, will make Oklahoma more competitive economically, but also help retain residents and health care professionals alike.
Clay Bullard, director of the Oklahoma Health Care Authority (OHCA), said that when students can receive Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) training concurrently with their high school education, they will have job opportunities and help enhance local healthcare.
“If you are tied to your community with a job in the community, you’ll have a reason to say in a rural community,” he said.
Discussion from state legislators included closing remarks from state House Majority Leader Mark Lawson and Speaker Pro Tempore Anthony Moore.
Moore spoke out against proposals for property tax changes and a $15 minimum wage, warning that both would “stifle” state growth, especially in rural areas.
“We cannot get rid of our property tax and keep our cities alive,” Moore said, drawing applause from the audience. “It would be a death knell… we’ve got to be careful now, because in three years, I don’t want to vote on a tax increase.”
The final panels hosted at the Oklahoma State Capitol focused on how Oklahoma wins the next decade, leveraging the creative economy to strengthen Oklahoma’s tourism brand.
The entire state has an incredible opportunity in 2026 to build momentum for the future, said Amy Blackburn, executive director of the Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department (OTRD). She cited as examples the Route 66 Centennial, NCAA golf, Olympics in Oklahoma City, the NBA champion Oklahoma City Thunder, as well as Tulsa’s proposed convention center hotel and hotel/motel tax.
“We cannot squander this,” Blackburn said. “We have the opportunity to create phonetics over the next three years.” n
STATE SUPERINTENDENT LINDEL FIELDS
What are your top priorities for the rest of your term, which ends in January? My priorities remain very clear. First is improving early literacy so that every child has a strong foundation in reading. When students read well, every other subject becomes more accessible.
Second is supporting and strengthening our educator workforce. Teachers are the most important factor in student success inside the classroom, so we must continue working on recruitment, retention and professional support.
Third is ensuring schools have access to clear guidance and responsive support from the State Department of Education. Our role is to partner with districts and help them succeed. If we keep our focus on those priorities, we will continue moving education forward in Oklahoma.
You have said that improving childhood literacy is among your top priorities for Oklahoma schools. What can the Tulsa regional business community do to help? The business community plays an incredibly important role in strengthening literacy across Oklahoma. One of the most valuable things businesses can do is partner with local schools to support reading initiatives, mentoring programs and volunteer opportunities. Employers can also help raise awareness about the importance of early literacy and support programs that put books in the hands of children and families. When businesses, schools and communities work together, we create a culture that values reading and lifelong learning. That collaboration helps ensure students graduate prepared for life.
In October 2025, Lindel Fields came out of retirement to take over as Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction after Ryan Walters’ resignation. A lifelong educator, Fields began his career in 1991 as a horticulture instructor and most recently served as CEO and superintendent of Tri County Technology Center in Bartlesville from 2009-21.
When appointed as interim state superintendent, you said that you "plan to sprint for 15 months." What has that looked like since October?
From the very beginning, I approached this role with urgency and purpose. A sprint for me means focusing on the work that matters most to students and moving forward without delay. Since October, we have prioritized improving literacy outcomes, supporting teachers and ensuring schools have the resources and guidance they need to serve students well. It has also meant spending time listening to educators and parents across the state. That input helps guide our decisions and ensures our efforts are grounded in what is happening in classrooms. My goal has been to move forward with focus and energy while keeping students at the center of every decision.
In your budget request, you requested an additional $23 million to cover rising health benefit costs. However, the Oklahoma Board of Equalization authorized a smaller budget than last year. Why should the state legislature keep or even potentially increase funding to education this session?
Investing in education is an investment in the future of our state. Schools are managing rising operational costs just like families and businesses are, and it is important that we ensure districts can continue focusing resources on students and classrooms.
Beyond increasing first-year teacher salaries, in what other ways can the districts and the state recruit and retain quality teachers?
Salary is important, but it is only one piece of the puzzle. We can support educators by investing in mentorship programs for new teachers, providing meaningful professional development, reducing unnecessary administrative burdens and ensuring educators feel valued and respected in their communities.
When teachers feel supported and empowered to do their best work, they are more likely to remain in the profession and continue making a difference in students' lives.
You spent nearly 12 years as superintendent of Tri County Tech in Bartlesville. What role does CareerTech have in creating an educated and healthy workforce, which is a key part of the Chamber's OneVoice Regional Legislative Agenda? CareerTech is one of Oklahoma's greatest strengths. It provides students and adults with real-world skills that lead directly to high-demand careers while also supporting the workforce needs of businesses across the state.
During my time at Tri County Tech, I saw firsthand how CareerTech programs connect education with opportunity. Students gain hands-on experience, industry certifications and pathways to well-paying careers.
CareerTech also strengthens partnerships between education and industry. When businesses and schools work together, we create a workforce that is prepared, skilled and ready to contribute to the growth of Oklahoma's economy. n
NEW MEMBERS
Quarter 1, 2026
BOARD OF ADVISORS
Lumen Technologies
100 Centurylink Dr. Monroe, LA 71203 gp.com
Lumen is unleashing the world's digital potential. It ignites business growth by connecting people, data and applications – quickly, securely and effortlessly. As the trusted network for AI, Lumen uses the scale of our network to help companies realize AI’s full potential. From metro connectivity to long-haul data transport to our edge cloud, security, managed service and digital platform capabilities, Lumen meets its customers’ needs today and as it builds for tomorrow.
Mercy Regional EMS
9106 N. Garnett Rd.
Owasso, OK 74055 mercy-regional.com
Serving the greater Tulsa region and Grand Lake area with expert emergency services and life-changing career opportunities. Mercy Regional EMS is here to serve with highly trained emergency medical technicians and experienced paramedics. Whether you’re looking for EMT jobs or seeking reliable EMT paramedic services, Mercy Regional EMS is dedicated to meeting the needs of its communities.
SEQTEK
12 N. Cheyenne Ave. Tulsa, OK 74103 seqtek.com
SEQTEK is a management consulting and technology services firm that helps organizations align their people, processes and technology to achieve strategic growth and operational clarity. SEQTEK partners with leaders to solve complex business challenges by combining strategy, leadership alignment, change management and modern technology solutions into practical, actionable outcomes.
Swift Collision
20701 E. 81st St. Broken Arrow, OK 74014
swiftcollision.com
Swift Collision is on a mission to redefine the collision repair industry by delivering an unmatched experience for its customers, employees and business partners. As a forward-thinking, founder-led company, Swift Collision is building the nation’s leading collision repair network.
918.Software
918.software
Local software engineering services focused on improving internal workflows, reducing manual work and fixing operational inefficiencies for small and mid-sized businesses. Projects are typically small, practical and scoped with clear outcomes and fixed pricing.
AC Owen Construction
1874 S. Boulder Ave. Tulsa, OK 74119 ac-owen.com
AC Owen Construction is a team you can trust that works with architects, engineers, sub-contractors and vendors to control costs and mitigate risk. AC Owen Construction works closely with you to ensure appropriate planning, careful scheduling and foresight to handle all phases of construction.
Admiral Twin Drive-In
7355 E. Easton St. Tulsa, OK 74115 admiraltwindrivein.com
The Admiral Twin Drive-In is a historic movie theater located just off Route 66 in Tulsa showing movies since 1951. It also has been the host to many local events. Francis Ford Coppola used the venue for the famous drivein movie scene in The Outsiders!
Alignd.
12 N. Cheyenne Ave. #018 Tulsa, OK 74103 alignd.guide Executive consulting, business operating systems, hospitality consulting
Arts Alliance Tulsa
203 N. Main St. Tulsa, OK74013 artstulsa.org
Working to help sustain Tulsa’s thriving non-profit arts community.
Asher Point Independent Living of Tulsa 7401 Riverside Pkwy Tulsa, OK 74136
asherpointtulsa.com
Asher Point Independent Living of Tulsa is a Sagora Senior Living community in the heart of Tulsa. Our Independent Living residents love our environment of safety, socialization, support and services.
Be Our Guest Travel Company beourguesttravelcompany.com/katieschauf Be Our Guest Travel Company offers concierge-level vacation planning designed for busy families.
Beacon helps microschool founders and alternative school leaders build sustainable, high-impact schools by providing the backend systems and accreditation pathways they need to succeed. Beacon partners with educators to remove operational barriers—compliance, infrastructure and legitimacy—so they can stay focused on creating student-centered, values-driven learning environments.
BVTulsa blackvibetulsa.com
Black Vibe Tulsa partners with executives, boards and cross-sector leaders to turn vision into clear plans, measurable outcomes and sustainable change.
Cadamy Business Consulting cadamyconsulting.com
Helping leaders lead their organizations without losing their minds.
Empire Protection Services 14083 State Hwy 51, P.O. Box 134 Coweta, OK 74429
Fastest Labs
11006 E. 51st St. Tulsa, OK 74146
fastestlabs.com/broken-arrow
Fastest Labs provides confidential and accurate testing services for onboarding protocols, court mandates, employers/employees, government works, paternity issues, parolees, athletes and so much more. Lab testing services are also DOT compliant. Fastest Labs is your go-to solution if you are eager to learn about your lineage or ready to satisfy drug testing requirements.
Genesis Auto Insurance
5053 S. Yale Ave. Tulsa, OK 74135
genesis4you.com Auto and home insurance
Goodcents
7135 S. Mingo Rd., Unit 7135-A Tulsa, OK 74133 goodcents.com
Good food that makes Goodcents. Plain and simple.
Goodyear Tire and Service
8235 E. 71st St. Tulsa, OK 74133 goodyear.com
Goodyear Auto Service Centers are full-service tire and automotive repair stores wholly owned and operated by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
Goodyear Tire and Service
500 N. Main St. Broken Arrow, OK 74012 goodyear.com
Goodyear Auto Service Centers are full-service tire and automotive repair stores wholly owned and operated by the Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company.
He Calls You By Name Publishing hecallsyoubyname.com
He Calls You By Name devotionals are individually prepared to weave YOUR NAME into a very meaningful assortment of Scriptures.
Howard Hill Essential Living, Inc.
3171 S. 129th E. Ave., Ste. A PMB 2085 Tulsa, OK 74134 facebook.com/HowardHillEssentialLiving
Howard Hill Essential Living is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to building compassionate, community-based programs that support children, adults and veterans with dignity and care. Programs are being developed and will launch in phases.
Ironwood Tree Co
11063-D S. Memorial Dr. PMB 308 Tulsa, OK 74133
ironwoodtreeco.com
Tulsa’s most reliable tree service with 70+ five-star reviews. Ironwood Tree Co. does what it says, leaving your property beautiful and finishing the jobs others can’t. Experience a turn-key process from start to finish.
John E Williams LLC
14002 E. 21st St. Tulsa, OK 74134
United Healthcare Medicare Advantage enrollment, AARP Med Supplement Plans, American Amicable Life
Lifestyle Medicine Research & Education Institute
8014 S. 101st E. Ave., Ste. 200 Tulsa, OK 74133
drwendydick.com
Lifestyle Medicine Research & Education Institute is dedicated to helping individuals reclaim their health through evidence-based lifestyle medicine. Led by Dr. Wendy Dick, the institute focuses on preventing and reversing chronic conditions such as obesity, diabetes, metabolic disorders and hormone imbalance through personalized programs, education and clinical support. By integrating nutrition, movement, mindset and advanced health testing, the institute empowers individuals and communities to achieve sustainable, long-term wellness.
McCann Law
6528 E. 101st St., Ste. D-1, Drop Box 451 Tulsa, OK 74137 mccannlaw.co
McCann Law is led by an experienced attorney here to help analyze complex situations to develop simple solutions. McCann Law’s goal is to ensure you achieve the most favorable outcome possible. It is focused on business formation and organization, state planning and oil and gas.
Pathways Adult Learning Center
P.O. Box 703064 Tulsa, OK 74170 pathwaysok.org
Pathways Adult Learning Center is a unique nonprofit Christian program dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
RealClean Tulsa delivers premium mobile aircraft detailing, cleaning and restoration services across Tulsa and the surrounding northeast Oklahoma aviation corridor.
RECO Construction
7033 E. 40th St. Tulsa, OK 74145
recoent.com
Commercial General Contracting in Tulsa and surrounding areas.
Safety Radar
12 N. Cheyenne Ave. Tulsa, OK 74103
safetyradar.com
Safety Radar is an AI-driven safety intelligence company founded by people who’ve worked the front lines, seen the challenges and wanted to fix them.
SSC Advisors, Inc.
6140 S. 104th E. Ave., #100 Tulsa, OK 74133
ssccpas.com
SSC CPAs + Advisors is your ultimate financial solution, a relentless advocate for resourceful individuals and growing business owners. Custom action blueprints give you full control of your financial future.
The Final Review LLC thefinalreviewllc.com
The Final Review LLC is your one stop shop for editing and notary services.
Tulsa Lawyers for Children
P.O. Box 2254 Tulsa, OK 74101
tlc4thechild.org
Tulsa Lawyers for Children provides Guardian ad Litem (GAL) advocacy for children involved in high conflict custody, guardianship and paternity cases.
Winston Water Cooler 8531 E. 44th St. Tulsa, OK 74063 winstonwatercooler.com
Winston Water Cooler is a premier wholesale plumbing supplier known for its years of expertise and comprehensive knowledge in the industry. Winston Water Cooler offers a wide range of products and services, including commercial and residential plumbing supplies, HVAC systems and fabrication services. Its intended clients include plumbing professionals and contractors seeking reliable supply and repair parts. With a focus on quality and customer service, Winston Water Cooler aims to meet all wholesale plumbing needs.
The Chamber's 2026-2027 Sponsorship Guide, which outlines the upcoming sponsorships available to Chamber members, is now online. Sponsorships of the Chamber's programs, events and services account for more than 25% of the organization's annual operating budget. These sponsorship opportunities are a great way to gain visibility for your business, as well as to align your company with the Chamber's strategic initiatives.
To inquire about a sponsorship, please email membership@tulsachamber.com.
