Why do we do what we do? It's simple – we're here for the warfighter. Every innovation we foster, every policy we advocate for, every partnership we forge – it all comes down to supporting the brave men and women who defend our nation. We're here for the small businesses striving to make a difference, providing them with the resources and connections they need to compete on a national stage. We're here for every individual who believes in the power of American ingenuity and Oklahoma grit.
Aerospace and Defense in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma has deep-rooted defense interests dating back to the 1860s. Today, we find ourselves home to five robust military installations where we lead the nation in field artillery, missile defense, force modernization, pilot training, and aircraft sustainment.
Driving Growth
ODIA, comprised of corporate and individual members, is a 501(c)(6) trade association founded to educate and foster cooperation for the improvement of the defense industry in Oklahoma.
Our Mission
Our mission is clear: to build an alliance that doesn't just grow but accelerates. An alliance that doesn't just connect but integrates. In ODIA, we've created more than a network – we've forged a family. A family of industry titans, government visionaries, academic pioneers, and nonprofit trailblazers. Together, we're not just better – we're unstoppable.
Strategic Priorities
Our History
Oklahoma has deep-rooted defense interests dating back to the 1860s. Today, we find ourselves home to five robust military installations where we lead the nation in field artillery, missile defense, force modernization, pilot training and aircraft sustainment.
Some of the most successful aerospace and defense companies in the world are operating and growing right here in Oklahoma, with over 1,100 aerospace entities encompassing all aspects of the supply chain, including the largest commercial and military maintenance, repair and overhaul depots in the world.
Our defense and aerospace industries are also job creator giants, employing more than 120,000 professionals, including engineers, sheet metal mechanics and pilots; providing an average annual salary of $70,000—nearly double the state average. The industry impacts more than 200,000 jobs. Aerospace + defense is Oklahoma’s fastest-growing sector and the second largest behind oil and gas. Its economic impact already measures $44 billion annually.
With myriad opportunities and changes on the horizon for the sector, the need to build a structured ecosystem that will overcome the political swings of congress and the shift in administrations was apparent. A group of visionaries came together, discussing the untapped potential of Oklahoma's aerospace and defense industry. They spoke of fragmented efforts, missed opportunities, and a lack of cohesive strategy. A commitment was made to build an organization that would unite our industry, amplify our voice, and partner with agencies like ACES, the Dept. of Aerospace & Aeronautics, AFA, and many others across the state to propel Oklahoma to the forefront of national defense innovation.
To protect the future growth of our industry as political landscapes inevitably change was born the Oklahoma Defense Industry Association (ODIA). Trade associations can perform functions to provide the entire industry with a stable infrastructure and advocacy presence in a way that self-interested, singular businesses can’t. Oklahoma lacked a prominent trade organization to represent its defense and aerospace interests. With the advent of ODIA, that vacuum is finally being filled.
Through the ODIA, these key members of our community can come together, in a way not previously possible, to grow an ecosystem where our state’s defense installations, industry, workforce and research institutions can prosper by working together.
Driving Strategic Dialogue
The Oklahoma Defense Industry Association drives this strategic dialogue among Oklahoma’s defense stakeholders by providing an outlet for industry members to advocate for positive policy outcomes at the state and federal levels; promote applied research partnerships through collaboration with Oklahoma’s research institutions; and enhance supply chain networking with greater access to resources for companies large and small.
This level of collaboration will be vital to the future stability, sustainability and advancement of the industry.
Oklahoma's Military Installations
Get Engaged
Whether you are an individual, a small business or a large one, or maybe just want to support the defense industry in Oklahoma, come be a part of our inaugural year and JOIN ODIA!