Oklahoma Aerospace Week Returns with Statewide Events Highlighting Innovation, Workforce, and Industry Growth
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Aerospace Week will return March 30 through April 4, bringing together industry leaders, educators, policymakers, students, and communities across the state to celebrate one of Oklahoma’s most important and fastest-growing economic sectors.
Hosted through a partnership between the Oklahoma City Innovation District and the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA), Aerospace Week highlights the people, companies, research institutions, and workforce programs positioning Oklahoma as a national leader in aviation, aerospace, and defense.
Oklahoma’s aerospace and defense sector is the state’s second-largest industry, supporting more than 120,000 jobs across over 1,100 aerospace entities, including manufacturers, maintenance repair and overhaul facilities, research institutions, and military installations.
Oklahoma continues to strengthen its role in the national aerospace ecosystem through propulsion testing, unmanned aerial systems, aviation maintenance, and defense innovation.
Throughout the week, organizations across Oklahoma will host events designed to showcase the strength of the state’s aerospace industry while connecting students, innovators, policymakers, and companies working to shape the future of flight.
Each day of Aerospace Week focuses on a key pillar of Oklahoma’s aerospace ecosystem, highlighting the partnerships that drive innovation, workforce development, and industry growth across the state.
The week begins on Monday, March 30 with Workforce & Aerospace Defense Day, featuring programming focused on workforce development and training opportunities. Events include an open house at Rose State College, highlighting cybersecurity, simulation technology, and aviation management programs that prepare students for careers in aerospace and defense.
On Tuesday, March 31, Future of Technology Day will spotlight emerging aerospace technologies and industry innovation through discussions and programming exploring the future of aviation, advanced manufacturing, and space technologies.
Wednesday, April 1, marks Government Advocacy and Awareness Day, highlighted by AERO Oklahoma at the State Capitol, where aerospace organizations, companies, and industry leaders connect with policymakers to showcase the industry’s impact on Oklahoma’s economy and national defense.
Programming continues on Thursday, April 2, with Tulsa Market Leadership Day, which highlights the region’s long-standing aerospace legacy and its growing role in emerging space technologies and propulsion testing.
On Friday, April 3, Aerospace Outreach Day will focus on inspiring the next generation of aerospace professionals through hands-on STEM programming and educational events hosted across the state.
The week concludes on Saturday, April 4, with Aerospace Community Day, featuring public programming designed to introduce families, students, and community members to aerospace careers and the science behind flight.
The week’s programming is supported by partners working across the state to strengthen Oklahoma’s aerospace ecosystem. Oklahoma ACES (Aerospace Commerce Economic Services) continues to support workforce development and industry growth initiatives, while the Oklahoma Defense Industry Association (ODIA) connects defense contractors, military partners, and technology innovators across the sector.
Research leadership also plays a key role in advancing aerospace innovation across the state. The University of Oklahoma Office of the Vice President for Research and Partnerships supports collaborations between universities, industry partners, and government organizations working to develop new technologies and strengthen Oklahoma’s role in national aerospace research.
Innovation Hall in Oklahoma City will serve as one of several hubs for Aerospace Week programming, hosting events that bring together innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, and students interested in the future of aerospace technology.
The 2026 Aerospace Week calendar includes workforce development programs, industry briefings, policy discussions, innovation showcases, and community engagement opportunities designed to introduce students and families to aerospace careers and the rapidly evolving technology shaping the future of flight.
Additional event details and programming announcements will continue to be released as Aerospace Week approaches.
For more information and the full schedule of events, visit the Aerospace Week website or explore upcoming programming at okcinnovation.com.