Contact Workforce & Economic Development

Anna Hearn, Director for Workforce & Economic Development at Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology (OSUIT), has over a decade of experience spearheading workforce development initiatives.  Anna began her career at OSUIT in 2013 as the Administrative Coordinator for a Department of Labor funded grant (Oklahoma Greenovation). Upon completion of the grant in 2015, Anna transitioned to a Customized Training Coordinator and assisted industry partners with developing customized training plans. In November 2018, Anna was asked to take on the role of Grant Writer for OSUIT and, since that time, has submitted numerous grant proposals and secured $13 million in funding. In early 2023, Anna took on an additional role as a Workforce Advancement Specialist and works closely with the industry to assess training needs and develop training plans. Anna has built strong, positive relationships with several industry partners, Technology Centers, and Tribes, including ONEOK, McAlester Army Ammunition Plan, OKTravel, Tinker AFB, The Railroad Commission of Texas, The Cherokee Nation, The Muscogee (Creek) Nation, The Cheyenne & Arapaho Tribes, and various Technology Centers across the state.

 

Anna received a Master of Science in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership (Workforce & Adult Education) from OSU-Tulsa in 2021. She also received a Graduate Certificate in Workforce & Adult Education from OSU-Tulsa.

 

She is committed to leveraging her expertise in workforce development to support justice-involved individuals in their journey toward successful reintegration into society. Anna believes in the transformative power of education and employment in breaking cycles of incarceration and fostering positive community reintegration.

 

In addition to her professional endeavors, Anna finds joy and fulfillment from her family life. Together with her husband Tyler, she is nurturing three strong-willed daughters, who exhibit a notable inclination toward justice and a desire to help others.