MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

Opinion

Discussion

June 30, 2012

Alliance could help add jobs

Combining with other cities in Oklahoma to encourage the growth of jobs here shows the kind of initiative Muskogee needs to build its economic future.

Brien Thorstenberg, director of business and economic development for the Port of Muskogee, was among a group of  Oklahoma economic officials who spent time networking with businesses at an international biotechnology conference in Boston recently.

“Biotech is very much a growth industry, and those are very much desirable jobs that would be an asset to the community,” Thorstenberg said.

Thorstenberg said he discussed creating an alliance with other cities and organizations in the state — including Ponca City, Ardmore, the Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce and the state Department of Commerce.

The alliance would be better positioned to attract new jobs by marketing the state’s combined assets.

If such an alliance could encourage higher paying, high tech jobs —  such as in the biotech industry — Muskogee must have a workforce ready for such demands.

Muskogee is well-positioned with Connors State College, Bacone College, Northeastern State University-Muskogee, and Indian Capital Technology Center to provide businesses with the workforce to meet their needs.

Working together with other cities and organizations to create an inviting atmosphere for new jobs gives Muskogee a better chance at landing some of those jobs.

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