This Week's Latest Tech News in Oklahoma City, OK - Sunday April 6th 2025 Edition

Oklahoma City is establishing itself as a major tech hub, with recent rankings placing it 19th among North America's top up-and-coming tech markets.

The city's tech workforce has grown to 22,590 employees, making it the third-largest among emerging markets. Tech wages have seen a 17% boost over the past five years, reflecting the sector's vitality.

The cybersecurity job market is particularly hot, with major employers like Boeing, Devon Energy, and Tinker Air Force Base actively recruiting talent.

Adding to this momentum, the city secured $35 million in federal funding to establish a biotech innovation cluster, showcasing its commitment to diversifying the tech landscape.

The ecosystem is thriving with new co-working spaces, record-breaking venture capital investments, and innovative educational initiatives. Local leaders are optimistic about maintaining this growth trajectory, with projections suggesting continued expansion in software development, cloud computing, and AI sectors through 2025.

For anyone looking to break into tech, OKC's combination of affordable living costs and expanding opportunities makes it an increasingly attractive destination.

The tech landscape in Oklahoma City continues its remarkable evolution with the Oklahoma City Innovation District (OKCID) leading the charge in fostering technological advancement.

The recently launched Tech Innovation Hub, a 50,000-square-foot facility, is already making waves with its innovative approach to tech development. The hub's impact is evident through its upcoming Tech Talk Series, featuring cutting-edge discussions on AI implementation and industry applications.

A standout event is the "GenAI for Life Sciences" talk scheduled for April 17, showcasing the intersection of gaming industry learnings with life sciences innovation.

The facility's strategic focus on AI, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies aligns with the city's designation as an official Tech Hub, backed by significant federal funding of $75 million and an additional $51 million for innovation initiatives.

The hub's influence is further amplified by events like AI Unlocked, which connects businesses with practical AI implementation strategies through expert-led sessions.

This comprehensive approach to tech innovation is projected to create 10,000 new tech jobs in the region, with an average salary of $67,000, positioning OKC as a significant player in the national tech landscape.

The hub serves as a catalyst for collaboration between startups, established companies, and industry experts, fostering an environment where innovation thrives and technological advancement accelerates.

Oklahoma's tech landscape is undergoing a major transformation through several Google partnerships. The University of Oklahoma Polytechnic Institute received a $250,000 gift from Google to enhance their computing capabilities, while a statewide initiative now offers free AI training to over 10,000 Oklahomans through Google's AI Essentials course.

The momentum continues as Google announces plans for a new data center in Stillwater, expected to generate significant job opportunities and revenue for local communities.

These developments are part of Google's expanded presence in Oklahoma, building on their existing $4.8 billion investment in Pryor's data center.

The AI Essentials program, requiring no prior experience, provides hands-on training in foundational AI skills, best practices, and responsible AI use through a self-paced, 10-hour curriculum.

The course particularly benefits fields like energy, agriculture, aviation, and manufacturing. Since 2022, Google's Career Certificates program has shown impressive results, with 85% of graduates securing employment.

This comprehensive approach to tech education and workforce development includes practical support such as childcare and transportation assistance, making tech careers more accessible to all Oklahomans.

The initiative aligns with Governor Stitt's vision of establishing Oklahoma as a leader in responsible AI implementation, while addressing the current gap in AI training opportunities identified by the World Economic Forum.

Oklahoma City's startup ecosystem is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 120 startups launching since 2020 and tech job growth reaching 25%.

The surge in venture capital has been remarkable, with total investments exceeding $500 million across various sectors. Local accelerator programs like gener8tor Oklahoma City's program are fueling this growth, investing $100,000 in each of their selected startups.

A significant milestone was recently achieved when i2E and Plains Ventures hit the $100 million mark in total investments, demonstrating the maturing investment landscape.

The city's tech scene is particularly vibrant in the software and healthcare technology sectors, with companies like HealthTech Innovations securing $75 million and CodeBase attracting $60 million in funding.

Local venture capital firm Cortado Ventures has been actively investing in overlooked foundational sectors, while established players like MedAI Systems have secured $40 million for AI-driven healthcare solutions.

The investment momentum is driven by OKC's competitive advantages: lower operational costs, a growing talent pool, and a supportive startup ecosystem. This capital influx isn't just about money - it's transforming OKC into a legitimate tech hub, creating high-paying jobs and fostering innovation across multiple industries.

The city's tech sector now contributes over $4 billion to the local economy, with venture-backed startups leading the charge in job creation and technological advancement.

The Oklahoma tech scene is heating up with multiple major conferences hitting OKC this year. ThunderPlains Developer Conference leads the charge, celebrating its 10th anniversary at the Oklahoma City Convention Center with an impressive lineup of speakers covering JavaScript, data culture, and mixed reality development.

The growing momentum continues with the Digital Government Summit, bringing together IT leaders from city, county, education, and tribal organizations to explore digital transformation.

Adding to the excitement, Technology Summit International arrives in December, focusing on practical tech implementation in public safety and emergency services.

Each event features hands-on workshops, networking opportunities, and insights from industry experts, with topics ranging from artificial intelligence to sustainable technology solutions.

The conferences aim to foster collaboration between local startups, established companies, and government entities, while providing platforms for knowledge sharing and professional development.

Last year's events generated multiple partnerships and funding opportunities for local tech ventures, and this year's expanded programming promises even greater impact.

With admission options ranging from student to professional levels, these gatherings are making tech education and networking accessible to diverse participants across Oklahoma's growing tech ecosystem.

Oklahoma's healthcare landscape is undergoing a significant transformation through AI integration. The Oklahoma State Department of Health has implemented Maven®, an AI-enabled disease surveillance system designed to detect and monitor public health threats across the state.

In a parallel development, Apricot Technologies has launched an AI-powered platform that reduces documentation time for home health nurses by over 85%, allowing them to focus more on patient care.

The impact extends to major healthcare providers, as Mercy hospitals have partnered with Microsoft to integrate AI solutions for streamlining lab results communication and appointment scheduling.

These innovations address critical challenges in healthcare delivery, including nurse burnout and staffing shortages, while enhancing patient care efficiency.

The Maven system specifically enables real-time monitoring and reporting to local, state, and national public health organizations, tracking various diseases from COVID-19 to tuberculosis.

Apricot's platform aims to support over 800 nurses and 20,000 patients monthly by early fall, making nursing in home health more sustainable. Meanwhile, Mercy's implementation of generative AI focuses on improving both patient communication and internal operations, demonstrating the versatility of AI applications in healthcare.

These technological advancements represent a coordinated effort to modernize Oklahoma's healthcare infrastructure, promising more efficient, data-driven patient care while addressing the growing demands on healthcare providers.

Oklahoma City's tech sector is revolutionizing sustainability in 2025, with major companies like Cox Enterprises achieving an 87.8% waste diversion rate and implementing comprehensive environmental programs.

The tech industry's commitment to sustainability has attracted $1 billion in infrastructure investments, creating a ripple effect across the region. Local initiatives are getting a boost from federal support, with the EPA providing $2.4 million in funding to innovative small businesses developing environmental technologies.

Several Oklahoma City tech firms are participating in this program, focusing on solutions ranging from renewable energy to waste reduction. The city's major facilities, including the OKC Convention Center, have embraced eco-friendly practices with energy-efficient LED lighting, comprehensive recycling systems, and water conservation measures.

Tech companies are following suit, implementing similar sustainable practices in their operations.

The transformation extends to transportation infrastructure, with companies supporting electric vehicle adoption and public transit initiatives.

These efforts have resulted in measurable improvements, including a 15% reduction in energy consumption by data centers and a significant decrease in corporate carbon footprints.

The collaboration between tech companies and local government has created a model for sustainable urban development, positioning Oklahoma City as a leader in green technology innovation.

With the tech workforce expected to grow by 35% and continued investment in sustainable infrastructure, Oklahoma City is demonstrating how technology and environmental stewardship can work together to create a more sustainable future.

Oklahoma City has emerged as one of North America's top up-and-coming tech markets, ranking 19th in CBRE's latest report.

The city's tech workforce has grown to 22,590 employees, with tech wages increasing by 17% over the past five years. Key sectors driving this growth include AI, cloud computing, and cybersecurity, with major employers like Boeing, Devon Energy, and Paycom actively recruiting talent.

The Department of Commerce reports that data centers and AI companies are showing increased interest in Oklahoma, with the state receiving 5-7 relocation inquiries weekly.

This growth is supported by the region's strategic advantages, including competitive utility costs and a skilled workforce transitioning from traditional energy sectors.

The tech scene is particularly notable for its diversity, encompassing aerospace innovation at Tinker Air Force Base, biotechnology advancement through the Health Sciences Center, and sustainable energy initiatives.

Local universities and career tech centers are producing over 1,000 tech graduates annually, ranking the city 9th in tech talent production among emerging markets.

The ecosystem supports both established companies and startups, creating a dynamic environment for innovation across multiple sectors. Recent developments include expansion in renewable energy technology, advanced manufacturing, and digital infrastructure, positioning Oklahoma City as a competitive player in the national tech landscape.

Oklahoma City's tech education scene is seriously leveling up in 2025. Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma are crushing it with their tech programs, boasting a whopping 90% job placement rate.

The city's 29 CareerTech centers across 62 campuses are teaching over 90 different tech specialties, with graduates landing sweet deals averaging $60k annually.

Oklahoma CareerTech has teamed up with major players like NORDAM, OneOk, and Lufthansa since 2003, creating real-world learning opportunities.

The upcoming OKSTE EdTech Takeaway 2025 at Oklahoma Christian University is set to be huge, bringing together educators and tech pros to shape the future of tech education.

With DevOps engineers pulling in around $133k and software developers seeing a 27% job growth rate, the tech scene here is straight fire.

These partnerships aren't just about landing jobs - they're creating a whole new generation of tech innovators who know their stuff and can actually use it.

• AI, cloud computing, or cybersecurity: Oklahoma City's got your back with programs that actually prep you for the real world.
• Low cost of living: The best part is the city's low cost of living means tech grads can stack paper while building their careers.

For real, the tech education game in OKC is on point, and it's only getting better.

Oklahoma City is experiencing a remarkable transformation into a tech hub, with 1,764 new tech jobs added in July alone, positioning the city as an emerging "under the radar" market in the national tech landscape.

The city's commitment to digital advancement is evident in both public and private sectors, with the implementation of sophisticated IT systems and employee-focused technology initiatives.

Recent data shows that the median salary for tech roles has reached $81,000, making it an attractive destination for tech talent. The city's bioscience sector has shown particular strength, with industry employment growing 25% since 2001, and R&D activity doubling in the same period.

This growth is supported by a $35 million federal investment in the biotech innovation cluster, fostering the development of research facilities and workforce training centers.

The transformation extends beyond traditional tech sectors, with cloud computing, cybersecurity, and AI emerging as key growth areas.

Major employers like Boeing, Devon Energy, and Tinker Air Force Base are actively recruiting for these positions, contributing to a projected 27% growth in software developer roles through 2024.

The city's commitment to technological advancement is further demonstrated by significant investments in digital infrastructure, workforce development programs, and public-private partnerships that are creating a robust ecosystem for tech innovation and growth.

Oklahoma City's tech landscape is experiencing major growth, with over 120 startups launched in 2023 and a 25% increase in tech jobs since 2020.

Infrastructure remains a key challenge, but the city is taking action through the 2025 GO Bond program, which will fund critical developments in streets, bridges, and digital connectivity.

The tech sector contributed $4.2 billion to the local GDP in 2023, backed by more than $500 million in venture capital, showing serious momentum in the market.

While talent retention continues to challenge local companies, the job market is evolving rapidly.

Software developer roles are projected to grow 27% through 2024, with cybersecurity positions increasing 35% by 2031.

The median tech salary has reached $81,000, making OKC increasingly competitive with larger tech hubs. Companies like Boeing, Devon Energy, and Tinker Air Force Base are actively hiring, particularly in cloud computing, AI, and cybersecurity roles.

The city is actively addressing infrastructure gaps through public-private partnerships and federal investments.

With approximately 4,000 unfilled cybersecurity positions and a growing demand for cloud architects, Oklahoma City is positioning itself as an emerging tech center.

Lt. Governor Pinnell has emphasized that infrastructure development is essential to support this workforce growth, particularly in both urban and rural areas where aging systems need modernization.

Oklahoma City's tech scene is experiencing unprecedented growth in 2025, with over 120 startups launched and a remarkable 15% increase in tech jobs.

The city's Innovation District has become a focal point for tech advancement, hosting key events like quarterly AI Tech Talks that explore artificial intelligence's impact on business and daily life.

The tech sector now contributes $4.2 billion to the local GDP, marking a 12% increase from the previous year. Major developments include WeatherMatrix's AI-powered climate analytics platform securing $18 million in funding, and Scissortail Security Solutions' noteworthy $120 million acquisition by Lockheed Martin.

The Innovation Hall has become a hub for collaborative events and tech conferences, fostering connections between entrepreneurs, researchers, and investors.

With the establishment of new tech-focused education initiatives and the expansion of existing companies like Paycom, which now employs over 4,000 people, Oklahoma City is solidifying its position as a major tech center in the heartland.

The combination of lower operating costs, strong government support, and a growing talent pool continues to attract both startups and established tech firms, setting the stage for sustained growth in the years ahead.