By Lynzee Misseldine, VeloCityOKC.com
Oklahoma’s biotech sector took center stage when the National Security Commission on Emerging Biotechnology (NSCEB) brought its national Roadshow tour to Oklahoma City. This event, in partnership with the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and Life Sciences Oklahoma, highlighted the dynamic and growing bioeconomy in the region.
Established under the 2023 National Defense Authorization Act, the NSCEB has been focused on maintaining America’s lead in biotechnology, expanding the growing bioecosystem and finding ways to counter foreign adversaries. The commission features a bipartisan delegation of two senators, two Representatives, including Congresswoman Stephanie Bice, and outside industry leaders and policy experts. The NSCEB launched this tour to engage regional leaders on innovation, workforce and U.S. biotech supply chains—and Oklahoma was one of its select stops, with seven commissioners in attendance.
Life Science Oklahoma (LSOK), housed at the Greater OKC Chamber, helped showcase the state’s bioscience strengths—from university research to workforce training at BioTC in the Innovation District. “Oklahoma’s life sciences sector is fueling innovation, attracting investment and creating quality jobs,” said LSOK Director Michelle Gregory. “The Roadshow was a valuable chance to highlight our role in the global marketplace.”
The event drew policymakers, executives and researchers to discuss Oklahoma’s role in the national bioeconomy, emphasizing talent pipelines, innovation and resilient supply chains, giving federal leaders a direct view of the state’s momentum.
“As a commissioner, I have been focused on highlighting the growing bioeconomy in our state and advocating for policies that strengthen our national security,” said Congresswoman Bice. “Oklahoma was honored to be chosen as a stop on the NSCEB Roadshow, which highlighted the real-world solutions emerging from our growing life sciences sector. With champions like Representative Bice who understand the importance of this industry, Oklahoma is well positioned to play a vital role in advancing biotechnology. By harnessing innovation, collaboration and workforce development, our state is not only strengthening its economy but also contributing to our nation’s security and global leadership,” said Oklahoma Secretary of Commerce Deborah Moorad.
Oklahoma’s inclusion on the tour is also a reminder that biotech is not confined to the coasts. With assets like the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation, top-ranked research universities and a strong culture of collaboration, the state is contributing to national priorities in health, security and economic competitiveness. LSOK continues to bring together voices from across the sector to advocate for policies, partnerships and opportunities that keep this momentum going.
As the Roadshow moves on to its next city, Oklahoma’s message is clear: the life sciences are not only growing our state’s economy, but they are also vital to our nation’s health and security.