The inaugural R.A.I.D.E.R. (Rapid Assessment and Innovation for Defense, Experimentation, and Readiness) Program Technology Exercise took place at Rose State College on April 23–24, 2026, where students, faculty, small businesses, and industry partners participated in a hands-on exploration of emerging technologies.
The two-day event created a dynamic, real-world environment in which emerging technologies were demonstrated, tested, and evaluated by potential end users. The exercise marked the first public launch of a program that has supported small business innovation in Oklahoma for several years.
Connecting Students to Real-World Innovation
Throughout the event, students engaged directly with founders, engineers, and technical teams representing innovative small businesses. They observed live demonstrations, asked questions, and explored career pathways tied to Oklahoma’s growing defense, aerospace, and technology sectors.
Faculty and staff brought classes, clubs, and student cohorts to participate during the exercise on April 24, reinforcing the College’s commitment to experiential learning and workforce alignment.
A Platform for Innovation and Feedback
The R.A.I.D.E.R. Program was designed to accelerate innovation by connecting small businesses with early, actionable feedback. Instead of waiting until technologies are fully developed, companies test their solutions in real time with stakeholders who could influence design, usability, and future adoption.
“This is not just a showcase. It is a working environment built for learning, honest feedback, and improving solutions while they are still being shaped,” said Rose State College President Travis Hurst.
Strengthening Oklahoma’s Workforce and Economy
Rose State College’s proximity to Tinker Air Force Base and longstanding partnerships in aerospace and defense positioned the campus as an ideal hub for the exercise. The event strengthened the College’s role in preparing students for high-demand careers while supporting regional economic growth.
The program was developed in partnership with the Oklahoma Small Business Development Center (OKSBDC), building connections between education, entrepreneurship, and industry.
During the event, Rose State also emphasized the continued growth of its Aerospace and Cybersecurity Business Incubator, which supports small businesses through mentorship, commercialization guidance, and access to key partners.
Looking Ahead
The success of Operation Alpha established a strong foundation for future R.A.I.D.E.R. exercises. More importantly, it demonstrated the value of bringing education, industry, and innovation together in a collaborative setting.
The R.A.I.D.E.R. Program will remain a key initiative in bridging the gap between emerging technologies and the people who will ultimately use them and ensure that innovation is not only created, but refined, tested, and ready for the future.