MidAmerica Industrial Park leverages regional collaboration for economic progress
12/02/2023
For nearly six decades, MidAmerica Industrial Park has been at the forefront of shaping northeast Oklahoma’s landscape through continuous development and a commitment to collaborative regionalism. With a focus on shared progress and economic prosperity, the Park stands as an example of unified growth across the region.
Since its establishment, MidAmerica has maintained a core commitment: enabling businesses to thrive. Major industry players like Google and DuPont have validated MidAmerica’s appeal as a hub for growth and innovation, underpinned by a dedicated workforce, robust infrastructure and expansive potential.
Central to MidAmerica’s approach is regionalism, a strategic departure from conventional competition that embraces collective advancement. Drawing inspiration from successful models, northeast Oklahoma’s various stakeholders – cities, counties, chambers of commerce and economic development entities – have joined forces. This coordinated effort is designed to elevate the economic prospects of the entire region, demonstrating the potential of unified goals.
MidAmerica recognizes the vital connection between education, workforce development and economic growth. “Workforce binds our region together,” said Scott Fry, MidAmerica’s director of workforce development. “We must address workforce development from a collective standpoint if we want to succeed not just today, but for years to come.”
A prime example of MidAmerica’s commitment to regionalism is “MidAmerica Delivers.” MidAmerica Delivers is a public-private partnership to help connect local businesses with schools and industry to create a skilled local workforce. This initiative showcases a shared commitment to uplift the entire region.
As regionalism gains traction, individual communities reap tailored benefits. MidAmerica’s surrounding communities have experienced population growth and witnessed significant investments in their main thoroughfares, sparking economic renewal. Tribal nations, counties and economic development entities have converged, leveraging their combined strength to attract employment opportunities and bolster overall economic well-being.
Yet, at the heart of these diverse outcomes, a singular belief unites the participants: the conviction that shared regional prosperity supersedes isolated accomplishments. MidAmerica Industrial Park’s dedication to fostering collaboration highlights its commitment to a future where collective success shapes northeast Oklahoma’s trajectory.
David Stewart, chief administrative officer at MidAmerica Industrial Park said, “Our legacy transcends structures and infrastructure; it’s about the bonds we forge and the communities we empower. Our pursuit of regionalism underscores an investment in the dynamic future of northeast Oklahoma.”
As MidAmerica Industrial Park continues its regionalism journey, its influence extends beyond its immediate vicinity. With each stride towards collaboration, it creates a path to a future where synergy propels the entire region towards ongoing success.