Students in the new Executive MBA in Aerospace and Defense program met with Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt on Tuesday, August 21. After student introductions and brief remarks by Senator Adam Pugh, the governor reiterated the importance of the aerospace and defense industry to the state of Oklahoma. He told class members they were in a good industry and encouraged them in their studies. Gov. Stitt also shared some business advice based on his own experience. He said told students there will always be challenging times ahead, but to keep moving forward and the effort will pay off. The governor made time for questions and seemed to genuinely enjoy his visit with the class.
In addition to meeting with the governor, students had an escorted tour of the state capitol building, led by Trait Thompson, chief engineer of the capitol restoration project. They also were able to briefly visit an informal meeting in one of the committee rooms.
The event was organized by Senator Adam Pugh and his executive assistant AJ Mallory. Senator Pugh represents the Edmond district and is a former officer in the U.S. Air Force who has worked in the aerospace and defense sector. He also is a member of the fall 2020 cohort in the new EMBA program in Aerospace and Defense.