By Katelyn Wade
The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) closed out 2024 with significant achievements, advancing Oklahoma’s position as a leader in the aerospace and aviation industry. The December Commission meeting highlighted strategic investments, leadership transitions, and the celebration of successful events, setting the stage for an impactful 2025.
Major Airport Infrastructure Investments
- Max Westheimer Airport (Norman): New air traffic control tower construction, $14.87M, leveraging $14.25M Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant funds, $306,455 of state grant funds, and $306,455 of sponsor matching funds.
- Broken Bow Municipal Airport: $1.27M project to rehabilitate Runway 17/35 with $1.2M of state grant funds and $63,415 of sponsor matching funds.
- Claremore Regional Airport: Mobile Jet-A Fuel system acquisition of $304,790 with $152,395 of state grant funds and $152,395 of sponsor matching funds.
In addition to these infrastructure grants the Commission also approved several construction and design contracts as part of the Department’s role to act as agent for airport sponsors and support their infrastructure development. Approvals include:
- Clinton-Sherman Airport (Oklahoma Spaceport) at Burns Flat: construction contracts totaling $5.8M to rehabilitate the primary runway pavement and improve the airport’s runway and taxiway electrical system.
- Pauls Valley Municipal Airport: design contract totaling $582,900 to reconstruct the primary runway and associated connecting taxiways.
- Sallisaw Municipal Airport: design contract totaling $181,700 to rehabilitate the runway.
- Shawnee Regional Airport: design contracts totaling $659,800 to support the construction of new T-hangars and their taxilanes, rehabilitation of the existing taxilane and apron, and construction of a new taxiway that will open up a 40+ acre development area.
Celebrating Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day
The Commission also celebrated the overwhelming success of the 2024 Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day held in Tulsa, Oklahoma at the 138th ANG Fighter Wing, on Friday, December 6. With 500 students and over 800 industry professionals and leaders in attendance, the event underscored Oklahoma’s commitment to inspiring and empowering the next generation of aviation professionals.
Keynote speaker Col. Nicole Malachowski, USAF Retired, a Thunderbird Pilot and White House Fellow, delivered an inspiring address that left a lasting impression on attendees. Her insights into leadership and her trailblazing career resonated deeply with aspiring aviators and seasoned professionals alike.
The event’s robust turnout and enthusiastic engagement demonstrated the growing interest in aviation and aerospace careers among students, particularly young women, solidifying Oklahoma’s position as a leader in aerospace education and workforce development.
2025 Aerospace Education and Advocacy Efforts
As the Commission looks toward 2025, ODAA is poised to build on its educational and advocacy initiatives with a renewed focus on inspiring the next generation of aerospace professionals.
The Bessie Coleman Aerospace Education Program, now entering its second year, will continue to honor the legacy of the first African American woman pilot by engaging students in STEM learning opportunities that highlight the history and future of aviation.
Additionally, the annual Aerospace Day at the Capitol set for April 2, 2025, will return showcasing Oklahoma’s thriving aerospace and defense industry and fostering connections between students, educators, and industry professionals. This event will include interactive exhibits, panel discussions, and career exploration opportunities, ensuring Oklahoma remains at the forefront of aerospace workforce development.
These efforts reflect ODAA’s unwavering dedication to cultivating a passion for aviation and aerospace while addressing the workforce needs of the industry.
Looking Forward
As the year concludes, ODAA remains steadfast in its mission to elevate Oklahoma’s aerospace and aviation industry through strategic investments, educational initiatives, and collaborative efforts with industry partners.
“We are incredibly proud of the strides we’ve made in 2024 to grow Oklahoma’s aerospace and aviation industry, said Executive Director Grayson Ardies.” “From the impactful success of Women in Aviation and Aerospace Day to the critical investments in airport infrastructure and UAS/AAM test sites our mission is clear: to inspire and support the next generation of aviation professionals while strengthening the foundation of our state’s industry. Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited to continue these efforts and create new opportunities that will elevate Oklahoma’s place in the global aerospace community.”
For more information about ODAA’s initiatives or upcoming events, visit https://oklahoma.gov/aerospace.
