On Thursday, March 3rd, the Journal Record announced their 19th class of Achievers under 40, including Liz Leaming, Ponca Works Director at Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA).

Leaming has served the Ponca City community at PCDA for the last 5 years and has developed or enhanced a number of many awardwinning workforce efforts. Leaming has spearheaded efforts to increase more local internship opportunities for High School and College students. In addition, she’s responsible for the planning and implementation of the popular “Girl Power,” summer experience. In this program Leaming plans with local businesses and industries a week-long hands-on experience for area girls to learn about local workforce needs that are typically male centric. Area girls come away with a better understanding of how gender does not need to impact a future career decision and how many local businesses have incredible employment opportunities. Lastly Liz has been responsible for the recruitment of critical workforce needs in Ponca City for the last seven years in her role as Ponca Works director.

The CEO of PCDA, David Myers, says Leaming is very deserving of this honor.

“I have the pleasure of working with Liz on a daily basis as she serves as the Director of the award-winning Ponca Works program … she was asked to join the Ponca City Development Authority (PCDA) as a result of her achievements in both her previous non-profit work and the contributions she has made to the Ponca City community. I have had the opportunity, therefore, to observe Liz in diverse roles and her leadership and initiative are truly remarkable.”

Senator Bill Coleman said this recognition is well deserved.

“Her energy and enthusiasm are not only helping our town with workforce issues, but so many other great causes within our community.”

In addition to assisting Ponca City with workforce development, Leaming serves on the Survivor Resource Network board of directors, and the Ponca City Main Street board of directors and recently completed two terms with the Ponca City Arts Association where she served as chair. In addition, Leaming is a past graduate of Leadership Ponca City’s 29th class, as well as a Leadership Oklahoma Graduate of Class 32.

The Journal Record’s Achievers under 40 program aims to identify the men and women across Oklahoma making a difference in their professions and community.

When asked for a comment, Liz said, “I am humbled that the Journal Record would recognize my personal and professional efforts in Ponca City and Oklahoma. I have always wanted to serve and create the type of community I would be proud to live in. This recognition is gratifying in a way to know our mission to meet the workforce needs in our community are being highlighted on a statewide level, and it’s incredibly rewarding to share in a part of these programs.”