The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber News

Oklahoma City ranked lowest-cost large city in U.S. in new C2ER report

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City continues to stand out for affordability, ranking as the lowest-cost large city in the nation according to the newly released 2026 Q1 Cost of Living Index from C2ER, The Council for Community and Economic Research.

The report found Oklahoma City’s overall composite index at 81.0, placing the metro 19 points below the national average and tied for the fourth-lowest cost of living among all 272 participating urban areas. The composite index measures the overall cost of living in a metro area using a national average of 100, meaning Oklahoma City’s score reflects costs that are roughly 19% below the national benchmark.

Among metros with populations over 500,000, Oklahoma City ranked No. 1 for affordability. The city’s composite score also improved slightly from the previous report, decreasing by 0.9 points from 2025 Q3.

Housing remained Oklahoma City’s strongest affordability advantage, posting an index of 60.2, meaning housing costs were nearly 40% below the national average. Transportation costs also came in well below national benchmarks at 84.0, while utilities and healthcare each remained below average.

Oklahoma City’s 2026 Q1 category breakdown included:

Composite: 81.0 (-0.9)

Grocery: 94.2 (+0.7)

Housing: 60.2 (+1.0)

Utilities: 94.2 (-3.7)

Transportation: 84.0 (-4.5)

Health Care: 94.1 (-1.2)

Miscellaneous Goods & Services: 87.5

The quarterly Cost of Living Index measures regional differences in the cost of consumer goods and services across six categories: housing, utilities, grocery items, transportation, healthcare and miscellaneous goods and services.

The findings add to Oklahoma City’s growing reputation as a place where residents and businesses can benefit from lower costs while still accessing the amenities and opportunities of a major metro area.

RSM Marks 100 Years of Serving the Middle Market

Jennifer.VanCleave@rsmus.com (Jennifer Van Cleave) — Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

RSM Marks 100 Years of Serving the Middle Market

OKLAHOMA CITY – June 3, 2026 – RSM US LLP (“RSM”) - the leading provider of consulting, tax and assurance services for the middle market - is celebrating its 100th anniversary, marking a century of advising middle market businesses through periods of economic, operational and technological change.

In Oklahoma City and across the region, RSM serves companies that are helping shape the economy and drive growth across industries, reflecting the broader impact of the middle market nationwide.

"A hundred years doesn't happen without extraordinary people — both within our walls and across the businesses we've been honored to serve," said Melissa Prophet, RSM Oklahoma City Office Leader. "Our deepest pride comes from standing alongside organizations that are making a real difference in the communities we all call home."

For 100 years, RSM has grown alongside the businesses it serves, building consulting, tax and assurance capabilities centered on its brand promise, The Power of Being Understood. That promise continues to guide how RSM brings insight, collaboration and practical perspective to help clients make informed decisions and create long-term value.

The milestone is captured through “RSM¹⁰⁰,” reflecting how a century of experience shapes the firm today and positions it for the future. As businesses face increasing complexity and rising expectations for growth, RSM’s centennial underscores the strength of its people, the depth of its client relationships and the investments the firm is making to support clients moving forward.

About RSM US LLP

For 100 years, RSM has empowered middle market companies worldwide to take charge of change. The clients we serve are the engine of global commerce and economic growth. Our unique understanding of the middle market makes RSM the natural choice for growth-oriented, internationally active organizations seeking relevant insights and tailored, innovative solutions for a complex and changing world. With a global reach spanning more than 120 countries, we instill confidence in a world of change by bringing the full power of RSM to make a lasting impact on our clients, colleagues and communities. For more information, visit rsmus.com, like us on Facebook and/or connect with us on LinkedIn.

Phase2 Named to Inc. Magazine's 2026 Best Workplaces List for the Sixth Consecutive Year

kalynnp@phase2online.com (Kalynn Pierce) — Tue, 02 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0500

OKLAHOMA CITY (June 3, 2026) — Phase2, an Oklahoma-based software engineering and AI consultancy, has been named to Inc. Magazine's 2026 Best Workplaces list for the sixth consecutive year, remaining the only Oklahoma organization to hold that distinction.

The annual recognition highlights companies that set the standard for employee engagement, culture, and well-being. Rankings are determined through confidential employee surveys conducted by Quantum Workplace, covering leadership, culture, growth opportunities, and overall support. Company benefits and additional organizational factors are also evaluated.

AI has reshaped the landscape at a pace unlike anything the industry has seen before, and Phase2 is no exception. But navigating new technology is something this team has done since 1998. The consistent feedback from employees reflects a culture that stays grounded and moves forward, regardless of what the industry throws at it.

"Six years in a row tells you something. Culture is not a perk or a program. It is how we operate every day, with each other and with our clients. That consistency is something we are genuinely proud of." said Heath Clinton, CEO of Phase2.

As Phase2 deepens its work in enterprise AI and custom software, its employee-owned culture remains a competitive advantage, attracting and retaining the kind of people who do their best work in an environment built on trust, ownership, and shared accountability.

About Phase2

Phase2 delivers enterprise-scale software solutions through the integration of strategy, engineering, design, and applied AI. For nearly 30 years, we have partnered with large enterprises, public agencies, and mission-critical organizations to solve complex challenges and unlock new opportunities. Our 100% onshore, employee-owned team combines proven enterprise expertise with the focus of a long-term partner, delivering solutions that create lasting impact. For more information, visit phase2online.com.

Q&A: Lindsay Vidrine on shaping Oklahoma City's story

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

As Oklahoma City continues to gain national attention, how the city tells its story is becoming just as important as the story itself.

Lindsay Vidrine, who recently stepped into the role of chief marketing officer for the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber, brings years of experience promoting the city through her previous role as senior vice president of destination marketing for Visit OKC. As the Chamber’s first chief marketing officer, she’s focused on elevating how Oklahoma City shows up across audiences — from visitors to businesses to residents.

We spoke with Vidrine about her new role, the city’s momentum and what comes next.

Q: You previously led destination marketing for Visit OKC. How did that role shape your perspective on Oklahoma City’s story?

A: We are telling Oklahoma City’s story every day to visitors, meeting planners and event organizers. In that role, I needed to be able to clearly articulate what’s interesting and unique about Oklahoma City, as well as showcasing our event venue, hotel and attraction assets. This role introduced me to dynamic people and partners in every corner of our city who are wonderful ambassadors for our destination and have shaped my perspective as our community continues to grow and evolve.

Q: Now stepping into the chief marketing officer role, how does your focus expand?

A: It’s about making sure we’re telling a unified Oklahoma City message across all of our stakeholder groups. We have great things happening across economic development, tourism, talent and more, but how do we amplify that in a way that gives people a clear sense of who we are before they even get here?

Q: What are your top priorities as you step into this role?

A: In the short-term, a big focus is internal alignment — how we collaborate as a team, refine our processes and shape our culture. The OKC Chamber has a strong legacy of leading initiatives that serve as a catalyst for the city, and we’re now applying that same mindset internally to elevate our organization for the future. Externally, my focus is on engaging with the community and our partners in meaningful ways. I see a clear opportunity to better connect efforts across stakeholders — strengthening not just the Chamber, but the city as a whole.

Q: How do you approach telling Oklahoma City’s story to different audiences?

A: At its core, Oklahoma City’s story is about our diverse people, our shared values and the only-in-OKC experiences that make us unique. The details may shift depending on the audience, whether it’s infrastructure, venues or workforce, but I often hear themes of resiliency, friendliness and our collaborative spirit. I’m excited about the community brand work that’s underway to help us further articulate OKC’s story.

Q: How does closer alignment between tourism marketing and the Chamber’s broader efforts strengthen how the city is positioned?

A: It allows us to weave Oklahoma City’s story through everything we do. That includes not just our organization, but our partnerships with the city, major employers and our sports teams. We all play a role in telling that story, and this structure helps ensure we’re moving in the same direction with the right tools and messaging.

Q: Oklahoma City continues to see strong national attention. What role does marketing play in sustaining that momentum?

A: Those national stories don’t just happen. There’s a lot of intentional work behind the scenes to build media relationships, develop interesting story angles and make sure people understand the growth happening here and why it matters. That’s a big part of how we continue to shape perceptions.

Q: Where is Oklahoma City getting it right in telling its story — and where is there still room to grow?

A: MAPS is a great example of something people understand and can talk about. It demonstrates the power of working together and believing in ourselves even when faced with hardships.

At the same time, I think we sometimes get in our own way. People who have moved here more recently or come as visitors see the city’s momentum and are really excited about it. Longtime residents don’t always recognize how much has changed. There’s an opportunity for all of us to better understand and share the story of who we are today.

Q: What does success look like for you and your team over the next year?

A: We have a really passionate team that cares deeply about Oklahoma City. In the near term, we’re working through a lot of transition, but once we get through that, I think the sky’s the limit. Success looks like launching a locally loved community brand, strengthening how we work together and continuing to increase awareness of OKC on a national and global stage.

Q: What excites you most about this next chapter?

A: There’s a lot of energy around this moment – both within our organization and within our city. We’re building something that hasn’t existed before, and while that can feel overwhelming at times, it’s also incredibly exciting. The work we’re doing is creating real opportunities for our team and for the city, and that’s what keeps me energized.

Gillenwater: Securing the skies, fueling the state - Why the E-7 Is Tinker's most urgent mission

Fri, 29 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

This op-ed ran on the JournalRecord.com.

Bringing the E-7 Wedgetail program to Oklahoma‘s Tinker Air Force Base is no longer a policy debate; it’s a moral obligation to provide safety to our service members and the best technological shield for our national security.

The E-3 Sentry aircraft has been a flagship program at Tinker for decades, serving as the backbone of Tinker’s airborne surveillance. That legacy firmly established Oklahoma as a critical hub for airborne command and control, and that role must now evolve to meet the demands of modern combat.

As an advanced airborne surveillance and command aircraft, the E-7 Wedgetail represents not just continuity, but a decisive leap forward in capability. Military readiness today is defined by technological superiority, and the E-7 delivers that edge. Equipped with advanced MESA radar — a dorsal-mounted system capable of 360-degree, long-range surveillance — the aircraft enables the United States and our allies to track aircraft, missiles and naval assets simultaneously across hundreds of miles. By adopting the E-7, we don’t just upgrade our own fleet; we lock arms with the United Kingdom, Australia and our NATO partners in a seamless web of defense.

The E-7 also transforms how decisions are made in real time. By connecting warfighters with command centers, it enables faster, more informed responses in complex operational environments, helping keep U.S. service members safer during missions.

For Oklahoma, the E-7 carries both strategic and economic weight — supporting high-quality jobs while reinforcing our role in global security and allied coordination. But that future is not guaranteed. As Congress looks ahead to the next National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), continued advocacy will be critical to ensure the E-7 transition moves from commitment to execution.

Tinker supports more than 58,000 jobs and drives an estimated $8.6 billion in economic impact across the state. As the United States Air Force transitions from the aging E-3 Sentry to the next-generation E-7, Oklahoma has a critical opportunity to secure our role in the future of airborne surveillance and command.

The E-7 transition is more than a routine platform upgrade — it would transform Tinker from a legacy maintenance hub into the permanent anchor of Oklahoma’s $8 billion aerospace ecosystem, fueling thousands of family-supporting jobs and sustaining long-term economic growth. Without continued investment, that future is at risk, threatening to stall Oklahoma’s economic momentum, jeopardize livelihoods and leave a significant gap in the state’s aerospace economy.

Oklahoma’s congressional representatives have been ardent supporters of the E-7 program at the federal level, and Congress has already taken important steps to advance the program at Tinker, recognizing its strategic and operational value. Now, the focus must shift from initial support to sustained momentum.

When it comes to protecting those who serve, there is no viable alternative to the E-7 Wedgetail. The path forward is clear: build on the progress already made, sustain the momentum in

Washington and ensure Tinker Air Force Base remains at the forefront of the nation’s most critical defense missions. In doing so, Oklahoma can ensure our service members have the level of safety and command they require to come home.

Greater Oklahoma City Chamber names new Visit OKC leader

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber announces the selection of Shaun Yates as the new senior vice president of tourism development. As SVP, Yates will have a significant role in leading the Visit Oklahoma City (Visit OKC) work, which is a key priority of the Greater OKC Chamber.

“This leadership position plays a critical role in advancing Oklahoma City’s visitation economy and supporting more than 35,000 hospitality jobs across our city,” said Christy Gillenwater, president and CEO of the Greater OKC Chamber. “Shaun’s expertise has elevated Oklahoma City as a convention destination, and he is the right leader for this era of growth for our city.”

Yates provides continuity in building on OKC’s momentum.

“After speaking with Convention & Visitor Commissioners, Chamber executive committee, city leadership, and key industry and civic stakeholders, it is clear that Shaun’s steadiness and diverse background will fuel continued advancement of our tourism priorities,” said Gillenwater. “More than 24 million annual visitors invigorate our local economy and generate tax revenue that supports our city while enhancing the quality of life for residents. I’m excited to witness Shaun’s future contributions in shaping our vibrant community.”

Yates has served as Visit OKC’s vice president of convention sales & services for the past three years, bringing large-scale meetings and conventions to Oklahoma City by promoting the destination’s wide range of new and growing convention offerings. He brings 25 years of hospitality and convention industry experience, with a background spanning hotel sales, catering and convention services.

After graduating from the University of South Carolina, Yates began his career in hospitality and went on to hold sales leadership roles at top-tier convention and resort properties, including the Waldorf Astoria Orlando & Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, Caesars Palace and Gaylord Palms Resort & Convention Center, among others. He also spent seven years in Austin, TX, working at a downtown convention hotel and later served as director of sales for Kalahari Resorts & Conventions.

“We have tremendous momentum in Oklahoma City,” said Shaun Yates, senior vice president of tourism development. “From hosting elite sports and equine events to our growing convention and leisure visitation, I look forward to continuing to amplify awareness of our destination as we build on the success of our dynamic team and industry partnerships.”

With several significant tourism drivers on the horizon, such as the OKC Thunder’s NBA Playoffs and the LA28 Olympic Games, coupled with new venues and tourism assets breaking ground, OKC is rising as a global destination. Yates will be instrumental in maximizing these opportunities and driving the destination forward.

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About the Greater Oklahoma City Chamber
The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber is the vision-setting organization of the region and drives economic growth and vitality by uniting business leaders to foster collaboration, belonging and regional prosperity. As the voice of the OKC business community for more than 135 years, the Chamber supports its members and the region through a varied body of work, including economic development, education, government relations and promoting OKC as a first-class visitor destination. The Chamber’s family of brands includes Visit Oklahoma City, Greater Oklahoma City Partnership, OKC Sports, Life Science Oklahoma and OKC Film & Creative Industries.

Women's College World Series returns to Oklahoma City

Thu, 28 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

The Women’s College World Series is back in Oklahoma City, once again placing the city at the center of one of college sports’ biggest events.

The annual championship tournament at Devon Park brings thousands of visitors to Oklahoma City each year while drawing national television audiences and showcasing the city on a national stage. Fans from across the country are expected to fill hotels, restaurants and entertainment districts throughout the duration of the tournament, generating a significant economic impact for the metro.

Oklahoma City has hosted the Women’s College World Series since 1990, helping establish the city as a premier destination for softball and championship sports events. Over the years, the event has grown alongside Oklahoma City itself, with continued investment transforming Devon Park into one of the top softball venues in the country.

The WCWS has become one of Oklahoma City’s signature annual sporting events, contributing to the city’s growing national profile in sports tourism and event hosting. The tournament routinely delivers sold-out crowds, extensive ESPN coverage and national exposure for Oklahoma City throughout the championship run.

The event also reflects Oklahoma City’s broader momentum in sports development. Alongside hosting premier collegiate championships, the city is preparing to welcome the world during the LA28 Olympic Games, when Devon Park hosts Olympic softball competition and the OKC Whitewater Center will host canoe slalom events.

As teams and fans arrive for this year’s tournament, the Women’s College World Series continues to serve as both a major sporting event and a showcase of Oklahoma City’s ability to host high-profile national and international competition.

Games for the 2026 Women’s College World Series begin this week at Devon Park in Oklahoma City.

Oklahoma City earns highest bond ratings for 18th consecutive year

Wed, 27 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

Oklahoma City has once again received the highest possible bond ratings from both Moody’s Investors Service and S&P Global Ratings, marking the 18th consecutive year the city has maintained the top-tier distinction.

Moody’s affirmed the City’s Aaa rating and stable outlook in an April 6 report, while S&P Global Ratings affirmed the City’s AAA rating and stable outlook on April 7. The ratings are the highest issued by each agency and place Oklahoma City among a small group of large U.S. cities with top ratings from both organizations.

The ratings are used to help determine borrowing costs for the City’s general obligation bonds, which support major infrastructure investments, including projects tied to the Better Streets, Safer City program, and the 2025 GO Bond package.

According to the City, Oklahoma City is one of only 13 U.S. cities with populations greater than 500,000 to hold triple-A ratings from both Moody’s and S&P.

The strong ratings reflect confidence in the City’s financial management, economic stability and long-term growth outlook, while also helping lower interest costs for taxpayers on future bond issuances.

Separately, Moody’s assigned an Aa1 rating with a stable outlook to Oklahoma City’s arena sales tax revenue bonds on May 5. The bonds are tied to the voter-approved 1% sales tax that will fund the city’s new downtown arena and future home of the NBA Champion Oklahoma City Thunder.

“We are grateful for the Aa1 rating as it will provide the City with an opportunity to fund the new home for the World Champion Oklahoma City Thunder,” Assistant City Manager Brent Bryant said in a statement.

The Series 2026 arena bonds are scheduled to be sold May 20 through Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and BOK Financial.

Frontier City Debuts "Frontier Lights: A Laser show Spectacle" for Summer 2026

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. — May 22, 2026 — Frontier City, Oklahoma’s most thrilling theme park is introducing an all-new nighttime experience, Frontier Lights: A Laser Show Spectacle, debuting Saturday, May 30, and running Fridays and Saturdays through July 31.

New for 2026, the park will give guests a vibrant way to end their day of thrills with a laser light experience set against the Oklahoma sky. The show blends music and motion into a high-energy display celebrating Oklahoma and Oklahoma City. Guests can view the experience from the Mystery River Log Flume area.

Frontier Lights will take place Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer before park close, prior to 9 p.m., offering an evening finale to a full day of rides and entertainment.

Returning for 2026, guests visiting July 3 and 4 can also experience Star-Spangled Nights, Frontier City’s Fourth of July celebration featuring two nights of fireworks and a large patriotic display as part of the park’s summer lineup.

Frontier City is also promoting a limited-time Memorial Day Sale with savings of up to 50% on tickets, passes and more. The offer ends May 25. For more information, visit FrontierCity.com or follow along on social media for park updates and showtimes.

About Frontier City

As Oklahoma’s largest theme park, Frontier City features more than 40 acres of family-friendly entertainment. Home to 58 rides, shows, and attractions, the park delivers a diverse lineup of experiences for guests of all ages. Frontier City remains the state’s premier destination for families looking to create lasting memories together.

About Six Flags Entertainment Corporation 
Six Flags Entertainment Corporation (NYSE: FUN) is North America’s largest regional amusement-resort operator with 26 amusement parks, 15 water parks and nine resort properties across 16 states in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. The Company also manages an amusement park in Saudi Arabia. Focused on its purpose of making people happy, Six Flags provides fun, immersive and memorable experiences to millions of guests every year with world-class coasters, themed rides, thrilling water parks, resorts and a portfolio of beloved intellectual property such as Looney Tunes®, DC Comics® and PEANUTS®.

Jamie Hutchison

Frontier City & Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City

11501 N I-35 Service Road | Oklahoma City, OK 73131

OKC leaders take priorities to Washington, D.C.

Tue, 26 May 2026 00:00:00 -0500

The Greater Oklahoma City Chamber led a delegation to Washington, D.C., this spring, bringing together business and community leaders to advocate for the region’s priorities at the federal level.

During the visit, the group met with members of Oklahoma’s congressional delegation, federal agencies and key partners to discuss issues impacting Oklahoma City’s growth, including infrastructure, workforce development and continued investment in major opportunities like the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

The trip also took place concurrently with the Tulsa Regional Chamber’s Washington trip, with joint programming during the first two days — expanding collaboration and presenting a unified Oklahoma business voice at the federal level.

The trip served as a chance to elevate Oklahoma City’s story on a national stage. Leaders highlighted the collaboration and long-term vision that continue to drive momentum across the region.

The annual visit remains a key part of the Chamber’s work, strengthening relationships and ensuring Oklahoma City is well represented in conversations that shape its future.