The Oklahoma Aerospace & Defense team (ACES), a division of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce, announced that it has received a 2026 Excellence in Economic Development Gold Award from the International Economic Development Council (IEDC).
“This recognition reflects the incredible momentum happening across Oklahoma’s aerospace and defense industry and the strong partnerships that continue to drive its growth,” said Leshia Pearson, Director of ACES. “Our team is focused on supporting the companies already investing and creating jobs in Oklahoma while also working to attract new opportunities to the state. This reinforces the work ACES is doing to strengthen Oklahoma’s position as a national leader in aerospace and defense.”
The award recognizes the work ACES does in business retention and expansion for the greater than 500,000 population group. Aerospace and defense, Oklahoma’s second-largest and fastest-growing industry, experienced another year of massive growth in 2025 after securing $450 million in new capital investment. That investment came from 37 new or expanding businesses in Oklahoma, creating more than 1,300 new jobs.
“The ACES team at the Oklahoma Department of Commerce is leading the field of excellence in economic development. This award shines a spotlight on ACES’ commitment to its community and showcases the significant impact of economic development,” said Nathan Ohle, IEDC President and CEO. “IEDC is honored to present this award to ACES to celebrate their leadership and innovation in the field.”
Each year, IEDC honors economic development organizations, government entities, initiatives and programs that consistently demonstrate excellence in the field. The honorees lead transformational projects that revitalize communities and advance the practice of economic development.
