Tulsa, Oklahoma, has a history rooted in oil and gas and aerospace industries, but in recent years it has rapidly evolved into one of the most dynamic innovation hubs among mid-sized U.S. cities. Driving this transformation is a meticulously designed strategy spearheaded by the City of Tulsa. Combining smart infrastructure investment, talent development, and comprehensive growth policies, it aims for sustainable economic development. At the heart of this effort is Erran Persley, Tulsa’s Chief Economic Development Officer. Washington CORE spoke with Persley about Tulsa’s challenges and future vision from a global perspective. For Tulsa, that future lies in autonomous systems, AI, and advanced manufacturing. The city is making early and aggressive investments to build global competitiveness.