Touch nonprofit secures $8.2M grant to enhance workforce development in Tulsa

The Tulsa Authority for Economic Opportunity held a meeting on April 24, 2025, focusing on workforce development and community engagement initiatives. Key discussions included the anticipated job postings for navigators in May and June, emphasizing the need for a budget discussion prior to their launch.

During the meeting, Nia James was recognized as the Employee of the Month for her leadership and contributions to Partner Tulsa. Her efforts in managing various organizational challenges were highlighted, showcasing her commitment to the community.

Kujenga Jackson, the executive director of Touch, presented on his organization’s achievements and future plans. Touch recently secured an $8.2 million workforce development grant aimed at establishing XR labs across the country and internationally. Jackson emphasized the importance of innovative education, stating that Touch has been at the forefront of STEM education in Oklahoma for nearly two decades. He expressed a commitment to investing in Tulsa and collaborating with local partners to enhance workforce readiness.

The meeting also included discussions on forming a board of advisers to support Touch's initiatives, with attendees encouraged to leverage their networks to assist in this effort. The session concluded with a brief overview of upcoming economic development projects, with a promise for more detailed discussions in the following month.

Overall, the meeting underscored Tulsa's ongoing commitment to workforce development and community collaboration, with significant investments aimed at preparing local students for future job markets.