Q: What are five things people don't know about the aerospace industry in Oklahoma?A: First of all, the aerospace industry is more than aviation. We're bigger than airports and transportation. Aerospace is a richer, broader term for what used to called aviation. The use of the term aerospace does not take away from aviation; it adds a greater depth and breadth to the industry.
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Secondly, Oklahoma is an aerospace state, and yet we don't look like an aerospace state. We still look like an oil, gas and agriculture state. This why: we don't have a stock quote. Yet the aerospace industry is the number one export in the U.S.
Third, this is a growing business. In order to grow our business, we have to have intellectual capital to grow it on. That means people willing to relocate to Oklahoma.
Fourth, we believe this could and should be a global destination, where people want to come for an aerospace education, aerospace jobs and to start an aerospace business.
Lastly, there is a need here for an aerospace alliance, to tie together the industry across our state and have a synergistic relationship. We are forming the Oklahoma Aerospace Alliance.
Q: How does Boeing fit in to this picture?A: Boeing is one of the many aerospace companies in Oklahoma. As the aerospace industry grows and prospers so does Boeing. We are very proud of our reputation for serving our customer and the community.
Q: What would you like to see happen to Oklahoma's aerospace industry in the future?A: I would like Oklahoma to become the global destination for aerospace jobs, business growth and education. For all to see Oklahoma aerospace as an integrated industry focused on economic growth, high-quality employment, and a solid education, training and research foundation.
Business Writer Jennifer Palmer
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