$5 million statewide initiative aims to prepare students, educators, and workers for the AI-driven economy
OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) — Google and the Oklahoma City Thunder are joining forces to advance artificial intelligence education and innovation across Oklahoma as part of a new $5 million statewide commitment. The collaboration seeks to equip students, educators, and the workforce with the AI and job-ready skills needed to power the state’s growing tech economy.
The partnership was unveiled at the AI Business Summit, co-hosted by Google and the Thunder in Oklahoma City. The event brought together more than 150 professionals from business, education, healthcare, and technology to explore how AI can drive productivity and innovation.
Attendees also heard from U.S. Representative Stephanie Bice, who underscored the importance of preparing Oklahoma’s workforce for a rapidly changing economy.
“To maintain our economic strength, we must equip our workforce with the skills of tomorrow,” said Rep. Bice. “This collaboration between Google and the Thunder is a powerful commitment to that goal—funding critical AI training for our educators, students, and workers. It’s about building a diverse, homegrown talent pipeline that ensures every Oklahoman has the chance to succeed in the AI-driven world.”
U.S. Senator Markwayne Mullin also praised the initiative, calling it a major step toward positioning Oklahoma as a leader in the AI economy.
“AI is the next great opportunity for Oklahoma’s economy,” said Sen. Mullin. “We are grateful to Google and the Oklahoma City Thunder for ensuring our workforce is not only ready for this transformation but in a position to lead it.”
Building an AI-ready ecosystem
Through the collaboration, the Thunder will develop new AI-focused sports programming for students, training opportunities for educators, and technology-forward initiatives to strengthen the state’s entrepreneurial landscape.
“This collaboration unites two global brands with a shared vision: to accelerate the responsible use of AI in education and innovation,” said Will Syring, Vice President of Corporate Partnerships for the Thunder. “By combining our strengths, we’re empowering learners, educators, and creators here in Oklahoma to unlock new possibilities and shape a smarter, more connected future.”
Expanding education and workforce opportunities
The broader initiative also supports several statewide programs, including funding for a new Master’s in AI at Oklahoma State University (OSU), expanded workforce development partnerships with the Center for Employment Opportunities (CEO) and Atlas School, and the Tulsa Regional STEM Alliance’s new digital badging system to help students earn verifiable credentials and connect with future employers.
“OSU’s collaboration with Google reflects our commitment to enhancing hands-on learning opportunities for our students,” said Kyle Wray, OSU Senior Vice President for System Affairs. “As the state’s leader in workforce development and continuing education, OSU is uniquely positioned to help students land not just jobs but fulfilling careers.”
“By integrating AI education into reentry programming, people returning home from incarceration have a real opportunity to thrive in the modern economy,” added Sam Schaeffer, CEO of the Center for Employment Opportunities. “Google’s leadership ensures that justice-impacted individuals in Oklahoma aren’t left behind.”
Empowering Oklahoma’s future workforce
Google says its investment is designed to ensure that innovation in AI includes every Oklahoman.
“We’re supporting organizations across the state that are building the critical training needed to create a strong foundation of local talent,” said Jeremy Dautenhahn, Google’s Head of Cloud for the Southeast Region. “Together with the Oklahoma City Thunder and other local organizations, we’re helping develop a diverse and skilled workforce that will power Oklahoma’s economic future.”
