Center for Workforce Excellence

Oklahoma’s First Aerospace and Cybersecurity Center of Workforce Excellence Located at Rose State College

Rose State College is home to Oklahoma’s first Aerospace and Cybersecurity Center of Workforce Excellence (CWE)—a statewide designation recognizing regional partnerships that deliver high-quality workforce training aligned with industry demand.

What Is a Center of Workforce Excellence?

Centers of Workforce Excellence serve as regional hubs that connect employers with coordinated workforce resources. Each CWE brings together business leaders, K–12 schools, CareerTech, higher education, economic developers, and state agencies to create streamlined, industry-driven workforce solutions.

Key goals of a CWE include:

  • Serving as a single point of contact for employers’ workforce needs

  • Aligning education and training programs across K–12, CareerTech, and college pathways

  • Developing curriculum and credentials that match industry demand

  • Leveraging regional partnerships to improve efficiency and impact

  • Ensuring programs and strategies are guided by employer input and local data

Statewide Recognition

The Oklahoma Department of Commerce established the CWE program in 2019 to strengthen Oklahoma’s talent pipeline. Rose State College, in partnership with Tulsa Community College, was named one of nine certified Centers for Workforce Excellence across the state—recognized for leadership in aerospace and cybersecurity workforce development.

Why It Matters

As workforce needs evolve, employers benefit from a single, coordinated resource that understands regional labor demands and can offer tailored recruitment, training, and education options. The CWE model helps:

  • Support existing businesses with skilled talent

  • Attract new industry to the region

  • Create clear and accessible pathways for students and adult learners

Rose State’s Commitment

At Rose State College, the CWE initiative builds strong partnerships with industry and provides students with education and training that leads directly to high-demand careers. Through collaboration with CareerTech centers, universities, and employers, the College delivers stackable credentials, hands-on training, and programs designed to support Oklahoma’s aerospace and cybersecurity sectors.