OMA Awarded Contract through Manufacturing Extension Partnership
5-Year Agreement Ensures Strategic Support for Job Creation and Industrial Growth
The U.S. Department of Commerce has awarded the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance a new five-year agreement through the Manufacturing Extension Partnership (MEP) program. This federal support strengthens OMA’s ability to serve Oklahoma manufacturers and aligns with its broader role in driving statewide economic development.
With deep roots in Oklahoma and strong support from both state funding and a broad network of partners, OMA continues to deliver high-impact services that drive industrial growth, create jobs, and strengthen long-term economic competitiveness.
“For more than 30 years, OMA has played a central role in advancing manufacturing across Oklahoma,” said Dave Rowland, president of the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance. “This new contract with MEP helps support our work. Our strength has always come from being Oklahoma-based, Oklahoma-focused, and fully committed to helping our state’s manufacturers succeed.”
OMA continues to operate at full capacity, offering a broad suite of programs, including workforce development, supply chain optimization, strategic sourcing, cybersecurity, automation and technology integration. The organization works in close partnership with state agencies, tribal governments, educational institutions, and private industry to support long-term economic growth and job creation.
Manufacturing is a vital driver of Oklahoma’s economy, supporting more than 140,000 jobs and contributing over $20 billion annually to the state’s GDP. As global markets shift and industries adapt to new challenges, OMA provides the practical tools and strategic insight manufacturers need to remain competitive.
Rowland indicated this new federal agreement marks an important milestone and provides OMA momentum to continue its work to fully unlock Oklahoma’s manufacturing potential. Because state manufacturers face persistent challenges such as workforce shortages, uneven rural development, and limited technology adoption, he said OMA will continue developing innovative strategies that provide companies the latest in new technologies and hands-on assistance.
With staff embedded across the state, OMA takes a personalized, community-based approach to problem-solving—helping companies boost productivity and strengthen operations from the shop floor to the front office.
“We’re proud to continue serving as Oklahoma’s go-to resource for manufacturing expertise,” said Max Harris, chairman of OMA’s board of directors. “This renewed federal support is a welcome addition, but as vice president of an Oklahoma manufacturing company I understand the real engine of OMA’s impact comes from decades of deep local experience, trusted relationships, and a shared vision for growing the state’s industrial economy.”
