Survey Says... Higher ed key to positive state business climate

Monday, April 16, 2012

A recent survey of thousands of Oklahoma business leaders shows higher education is the number one indicator of business climate strength in the state.

The survey, launched by Governor Mary Fallin, Secretary of Commerce Dave Lopez and partner organizations through FallinForBusiness.com, is the largest ever conducted of Oklahoma employers. More than 5,300 business owners and executives were asked to weigh-in on the issues and challenges affecting the climate of business in the state.

Eighty-seven percent of those surveyed indicated the quality of Oklahoma’s two- and four-year college/university systems was the number one business climate strength in the state. 

“This strongly validates the impact institutions like Oklahoma State University have on Oklahoma’s economic development and the vital role they play as a pipeline for Oklahoma employers,” said OSU President Burns Hargis. “It also is a reminder of the value the state receives from its investment in higher education.”

Rounding out the top five business climate strengths were access to supplies required to conduct business (76%), Career Tech system preparation for the workplace (76%), affordable housing options for employees (74%) and recreational opportunities (73%).
Complete results from the survey can be found at FallinForBusiness.com.