The Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance named former Oklahoma House Speaker Chris Benge its new president.
Benge will focus on business growth and external engagement, working with state leaders, Native Nations, educational institutions, economic development organizations, and other partners to expand opportunities for Oklahoma manufacturers. He also will help connect companies with programs supporting innovation, workforce development, and long-term competitiveness.
“Chris understands how public policy, workforce preparation, and economic development come together to influence the success of Oklahoma companies,” said Roger Kelly, chief executive officer of the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance. “His statewide relationships and ability to bring people together will help OMA reach more manufacturers, develop productive collaborations, and identify new ways to serve industry.”
A Tulsa native and citizen of the Cherokee Nation, Benge began his career in his family’s painting and construction business. He later served 12 years in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, including three years as chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Committee and two years as speaker.
Benge also served as an adviser to former Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett and as Oklahoma secretary of state, secretary of Native American affairs, and chief of staff to former Gov. Mary Fallin. He later worked as senior vice president of government affairs at the Tulsa Regional Chamber.
Benge spent the past seven-and-a-half years in leadership positions across the Oklahoma State University system. Most recently, he served as vice president of operations and director of workforce partnerships at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology in Okmulgee, where he worked to advance technical education and career pathways aligned with employer needs.
“Manufacturing is essential to Oklahoma’s future, and continued progress will require close coordination among employers, policymakers, tribal governments, educators, and local communities,” Benge said. “I believe Oklahoma is well positioned to play a significant role in the U.S. effort to expand the manufacturing capabilities of our nation and compete in a 21st-century economy.”
The Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance helps manufacturers improve productivity, develop their workforces, strengthen supply chains, and adopt advanced technologies. Its statewide work is supported through a partnership with the Oklahoma Center for the Advancement of Science and Technology.
