Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) has been actively shaping the workforce landscape to meet the growing needs of local businesses. Recognizing a national workforce shortage that began in 2008, PCDA launched the Ponca Works program to address these challenges. By July of last year, Kay County had over 2,000 open job postings online, emphasizing the importance of workforce development efforts. Liz Leaming, Ponca Works Director, has guided these initiatives to serve the community better.
"We knew we had to take action to ensure that Ponca City remained competitive," said Leaming. "Ponca Works has been a game-changer in connecting people with opportunities."
Ponca Works has evolved, shifting from recruitment and job matchmaking to building a local talent pipeline. A significant initiative within this program is the Wildcat Internship Program, now entering its eighth year in partnership with Ponca City High School. With 200 student interns placed in local businesses, the program strengthens ties between students and the local workforce, preparing them for future careers within the community.
Internships have long been a key component of workforce development, mirroring apprenticeship models in other countries. While past U.S. education policy heavily promoted college pathways, there is a renewed emphasis on hands-on learning. Oklahoma's legislative changes have allowed students to earn elective credit for internships, further integrating work experience into education.
Another critical workforce strategy employed by PCDA is the Boomerang Recruitment Marketing initiative. Through social media and email outreach, this campaign targets former residents—college graduates, or professionals looking to return home. Workforce development extends beyond job creation, encompassing housing, retail, and entertainment to enhance the quality of life for residents.
One of the most exciting recent developments is revitalizing the vacant AMC theater. "We saw an opportunity not just to fill an empty building but to enhance the entertainment options in Ponca City," said Leaming. Recognizing the importance of entertainment in workforce attraction, PCDA facilitated a lease-to-own agreement with Icon Cinemas. The operator will fund interior renovations, including reclining seats, a bar, and upgraded amenities, while PCDA ensures the investment aligns with community financial interests. "Icon Cinemas is going to be a fantastic addition," Leaming added. "Having a state-of-the-art theater makes Ponca City more appealing to residents and potential newcomers."
The new theater is expected to open by the end of summer, providing a modern entertainment venue for the region. Its reopening is a key part of the broader strategy to make Ponca City a more attractive place to live and work.
PCDA has traditionally focused on primary industries—businesses that bring new money into the community by exporting goods and services. To support this, PCDA has developed speculative manufacturing facilities, offering move-in-ready spaces for companies looking to expand. One recent success story is Log10, a macrobiotic manufacturing facility that transitioned from a lease-to-own agreement to full ownership, investing millions in the local economy. Another facility, Duke, is expected to be leased soon, continuing PCDA's strategy of fostering industrial growth.
Through initiatives like Ponca Works, Boomerang Recruitment, and strategic economic development projects, PCDA remains committed to sustaining a vibrant workforce and business environment in Ponca City. For more information about PCDA visit their website at GOPonca.com
Share this post