Caddo Nation and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology Forge Memorandum of Understanding to Launch New Era of Workforce Development Pathway

Groundbreaking agreement creates direct pathways from education to economic opportunity for tribal citizens

The Caddo Nation has taken a bold step toward economic sovereignty with the signing of a comprehensive Memorandum of Understanding between the Caddo Nation Economic Development Authority (CNEDA) and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT), creating what tribal leaders describe as a "transformative workforce development pathway" for the 21st century. The partnership with OUSIT represents more than an educational partnership – it's a strategic investment in the future of Caddo people and a model for how tribal nations can leverage educational alliances to strengthen economic independence.

The landmark agreement, formalized on July 3, 2025, between the Caddo Nation Economic Development Authority (CNEDA) and Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT) was created to launch a workforce development initiative that will create new jobs and training pathways for tribal citizens and residents of Caddo County.

The partnership is designed to prepare Caddo citizens for high-demand careers in the construction and energy sectors, including renewable energy, remediation, infrastructure, and utility development. These efforts will directly support implementation of the Caddo Nation’s 477 Plan, its long-term Resiliency Plan, and the Nation’s expanding portfolio of tribally owned enterprises.

Building on a Foundation of Success

The partnership comes at a time when the Caddo Nation's economic development efforts are gaining national recognition. Through Caddo Enterprises, the Nation has successfully diversified its economic portfolio with thriving retail operations, the innovative SAKU renewable energy division, and ambitious infrastructure development projects.

"What we're seeing is the maturation of a comprehensive economic strategy that began years ago," explained Zackeree Kelin, Vice-Chairman of the Caddo Nation Economic Development Authority. "This partnership with OSUIT allows us to close the loop – ensuring our people have the skills and training to not just participate in our economic growth, but to lead it."

The timing is particularly strategic given the Nation's involvement in renewable energy initiatives and its recent hosting of Oklahoma's first Native Renewable Energy Symposium, which brought together leaders from 36 tribal nations to discuss energy sovereignty and economic development.

“This agreement with OSUIT marks a major step forward in building the systems we need to empower our people,” said Zackeree Kelin, Vice-Chairman of CNEDA. “Together, we are creating a direct link between education, job readiness, and economic opportunity—laying the groundwork for careers that build our communities and strengthen our sovereignty.”

Through coordinated programming and strategic alignment with CNEDA’s enterprise development and infrastructure investments, this MOU will accelerate workforce readiness and provide scalable pathways for tribal citizens to participate in, lead, and grow the Nation’s economic resurgence.

Addressing Critical Skills Gaps

The partnership specifically targets high-demand sectors where the Caddo Nation is already making significant investments:

Renewable Energy Development – With SAKU already developing solar energy projects, including a childcare center currently under construction, the Nation needs trained technicians and project managers who understand both the technology and the unique requirements of tribal energy projects.

Construction and Infrastructure – As the Nation continues to expand its facilities and develop new projects, having a skilled workforce of Caddo citizens ensures that economic benefits stay within the community.

Environmental Remediation – The partnership will prepare specialists for orphan well cleanup and environmental restoration work, addressing both job creation and environmental stewardship priorities.

Utility Development – Training programs will build expertise in energy infrastructure and grid modernization, supporting the Nation's broader energy sovereignty goals.

A Customized Approach to Training

What sets this partnership apart from traditional workforce development programs is its highly customized approach. Rather than simply sending tribal citizens to existing programs, OSUIT will work with CNEDA to develop specialized training that directly aligns with the Nation's specific economic development goals.

"This isn't about fitting our people into someone else's workforce," emphasized Chairman Bobby Gonzalez. "This is about building the capacity within our Nation to manage and lead our own economic destiny."

The agreement includes provisions for OSUIT to provide consultation, curriculum development, and access to state-of-the-art facilities at its Okmulgee campus. CNEDA will coordinate student recruitment and provide facilities, ensuring that programs are accessible to Caddo citizens across the Nation's service area.

Learning from History, Building for the Future

The partnership reflects lessons learned. Rather than relying solely on outside contractors and employees, the Caddo Nation is investing in building expertise within its own community.

This approach aligns with the Nation's Section 477 Plan and Resiliency Plan, comprehensive strategies that prioritize long-term sustainability and community self-reliance. By ensuring that Caddo citizens have the skills needed for emerging industries, the Nation is positioning itself to maintain control over its economic development while creating lasting career opportunities for its people.

Broader Implications for Indian Country

The Caddo Nation-OSUIT partnership is already drawing attention from other tribal leaders as a potential model for workforce development in Indian Country. The agreement's emphasis on customization, tribal control, and alignment with specific economic development goals offers a blueprint that other nations could adapt to their own circumstances.

"We're not just building a workforce program," noted Kelin. "We're demonstrating how tribal nations can be strategic partners in their own economic development, rather than passive recipients of programs designed by others."

The partnership also highlights the growing sophistication of tribal economic development strategies. By connecting workforce development directly to enterprise development and infrastructure investments, the Caddo Nation is creating a comprehensive approach that maximizes the impact of every investment.

Implementation and Community Impact

The first customized training programs are expected to launch in fall 2025, with initial focus areas determined by immediate needs within Caddo Enterprises and ongoing tribal projects. The agreement includes provisions for regular evaluation and program expansion based on success metrics and evolving community needs.

For Caddo citizens, the partnership represents concrete opportunities for career advancement in growing industries. Participants will gain industry-recognized credentials while contributing directly to their Nation's economic development, creating a powerful connection between individual success and community prosperity.

Looking Ahead

As the Caddo Nation prepares to implement this innovative partnership, tribal leaders are already considering potential expansions and additional collaborations. The success of this model could pave the way for similar partnerships in other sectors, further strengthening the Nation's capacity for economic self-determination.

"This is just the beginning," said Chairman Gonzalez. "We're building something that will benefit our children and grandchildren – a foundation for prosperity that grows stronger with each generation."

The partnership represents more than workforce development; it's a testament to the Caddo Nation's vision of sovereignty through economic strength and its commitment to ensuring that the benefits of development flow directly to tribal citizens.

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For more information, contact rcarson@mycaddonation.com