Oklahoma faces a shortage of civil engineering talent. Tax credits can help
Civil engineers, responsible for designing and maintaining community structures, are the cornerstone of infrastructure development. They have a duty to protect the public safety, serve as the engine of economic development and improve the quality of life for our fellow residents. However, Oklahoma faces a shortage of civil engineering talent. This scarcity not only hampers infrastructure projects but also threatens the state's long-term competitive standing to surrounding states.
House Bill 3670, up for consideration before the Oklahoma Legislature this year, is a timely opportunity to bolster the state's civil engineering sector through a targeted tax credit. By supporting HB 3670, Oklahoma can spur economic growth, address infrastructure challenges and cement its reputation as a hub for innovation and opportunity.
More: Guest: Why a STEM-trained workforce is key to Oklahoma’s future
With undergraduate enrollment in civil engineering programs on the decline and a projected need for thousands of new civil engineers annually, Oklahoma must take proactive steps to recruit and retain talent in this critical field. HB 3670 offers a strategic solution by introducing targeted tax credits for qualified engineers and employers engaged in civil engineering services.
These tax credits incentivize college students to pursue civil engineering careers by making the profession more financially attractive. Additionally, Oklahoma can drive job creation and economic activity by encouraging businesses to invest in infrastructure projects. Also, these tax credits promote innovation by facilitating the adoption of advanced technologies within the industry.
By enhancing the state's infrastructure and workforce capacity, Oklahoma can attract businesses, stimulate innovation and improve quality of life for its residents. With resilient infrastructure, we can mitigate the economic and social impacts of natural disasters, safeguarding communities for generations to come.
Through HB 3670, we can harness the power of tax incentives to spur economic growth, address infrastructure needs and foster innovation within the civil engineering sector.
Now is the time to support the passage of HB 3670. These targeted tax credits for civil engineers sends a clear message: Oklahoma values talent, innovation and economic growth. This proactive approach not only addresses current workforce shortages but also positions Oklahoma as a hub for outstanding incentive programs and pro-business environment.
More: Need a career change, or your first career? Oklahoma has plenty of education options | Opinion
With the unprecedented growth of OKC, Tulsa and many rural communities, we must seize this opportunity to build a brighter future for all of Oklahoma, one infrastructure project at a time.
Rep. Nicole Miller, a Republican, represents House District 82 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. For more information about Rep. Miller and HB 3670, visit okhouse.gov.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Oklahoma faces civil engineering talent shortage; tax credits can help
