Williams CEO Alan Armstrong takes over as chair of the Tulsa Regional Chamber.
Armstrong began his tenure as chair by telling the story of the Tulsa Commercial Club traveling to Independence, Kansas to lure the Prairie Oil and Gas company to Tulsa. Armstrong said not much has changed in 100 years.
"Skilled, available talent was a necessary link to Tulsa's success in 1914, just as it is today," he said.
During the chamber’s annual meeting Wednesday, Armstrong said attracting young, talented professionals is still the chamber’s focus, and leaders throughout the region need to make decisions that make the area attractive.
"We must make sure that the quality of our basics, like infrastructure, education and public safety, complement who we are and allow others to see our admirable qualities," Armstrong said.
Armstrong said the Gathering Place and a potential vote this year to put water in the Arkansas River are projects that should help put Tulsa over the top.
The chamber also has a new idea for attracting young talent to the region. Armstrong said they'll go after Tulsans who go to college away from home.
"In 2015, the chamber will pilot Project Boomerang, aimed specifically at bringing students attending school outside of our community back home to live, work and raise families right here in Tulsa," he said.
Project Boomerang will involve promoting regional developments and events. Armstrong says area businesses will get to tell students about internships as well.
