Designed Exclusively for Oklahoma’s Aviation, Aeronautics & Aerospace Professionals and Industry Leaders
OKLAHOMA CITY – Crowe Dunlevy is pleased to announce the creation, development, and launch of its Aviation Leaders in Oklahoma Flight & Technology, or “ALOFT” initiative, an industry-focused forum highlighting the strength and future of our state’s aviation, aerospace, and unmanned systems ecosystem.
The ALOFT initiative will bring together industry executives, innovators, academic partners, policymakers, and economic development leaders to discuss trends shaping Oklahoma’s aviation future—including workforce, technology innovation, advanced air mobility, and emerging UAS applications.
“Crowe Dunlevy has created ALOFT to serve as a relationship-building conduit for aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace professionals across the state,” said Crowe Dunlevy’s Bob Kalsu, a shareholder and director in the firm’s Oklahoma City office and chair of the firm’s Aviation & Commercial Space practice.
A little background on the aviation industry here in the state:
- The aerospace and defense sector is Oklahoma’s second-largest and fastest-growing industry, generating approximately $44 billion in annual economic activity and supporting over 206,000 jobs statewide across aviation, aerospace, and related services.
- Specifically, as of the 2024–2025 data, this industry supports 206,000 jobs with a combined payroll of around $11.7 billion.
- In Greater Oklahoma City, there are 338 aviation and aerospace companies employing over 45,500 people directly.
- Tulsa has a concentration of aerospace jobs within its city limits, particularly near Tulsa International Airport and the Aerospace Industrial Park. Tulsa’s aerospace cluster supports tens of thousands of jobs, with companies spanning engineering, manufacturing, maintenance, and R&D. Many small- to mid-sized aerospace suppliers, drone startups, and defense contractors are concentrated in northeast Tulsa near the airport and industrial corridors.
“The continued growth and enthusiasm surrounding the aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace industries in Oklahoma reflect a real need for trusted, local forums where industry leaders can learn from one another,” said Crowe Dunlevy’s John Eix, the firm’s Director of Business Development & Marketing. “These events are about building relationships, sharing experiences, and strengthening Oklahoma’s vibrant aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace communities.”
The ALOFT initiative will host two events a year – one in Oklahoma City and one in Tulsa. The Oklahoma City event is planned Thursday, May 14, 2026, at Innovation Hall. The Tulsa event is planned for Thursday, October 8th at a location to be determined.
“The most effective innovation comes from collaboration,” said Crowe Dunlevy’s Adam W. Childers, the firm’s President & CEO. “ALOFT will bring together aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace leaders who understand the value of sharing insights and learning from peers facing similar challenges – all while building collaborative relationships that will benefit the industries, the companies, and the state.”
If aviation, aeronautics, and aerospace leaders in Oklahoma would like to be included in invitations for upcoming events and/or member activities, please contact John Eix at john.eix@crowedunlevy.com or 918.592.9803.
