We are optimistic and encouraged by the steady rates of the SARS-CoV-2 virus going down, while vaccination rates continue to climb. The Civil Aerospace Medical Institute (CAMI) has been instrumental in providing hundreds of vaccines to those employees that have registered. The Aeronautical Center continues to have approximately 2,000 employees physically working on site. We do hope that if you have an opportunity to get the vaccination that you will do so. Infectious disease experts agree that at least 70-85% of the nation needs to become immune to really impact the virus. Thanks to the Office of Facility Management, CAMI personnel and the Center Management Team we are able to maintain robust safety measures, ensuring that environments are clean and that employees are safe and feel safe in their work surroundings. Remember if you come to the Center, please wear your mask, avoid crowds, and practice social distancing with frequent handwashing.
If you haven’t already seen this, Oklahoma City’s Innovation District recently highlighted the good work going on at the Civil Aerospace Medical Institute. The goal of the District is to bring together the greatest minds across Oklahoma’s diverse business sectors (those in aerospace, energy, technology and academia) and have them work in total collaboration; yielding world-changing results. What began as a dream to further Oklahoma City’s momentum has become a strategic effort to create a district that serves as a catalyst for the professional industries of Oklahoma. The District encourages partnerships and the development of new technologies and services while also balancing cultural and historical assets.
We’re entering into Oklahoma’s severe weather season, so take time to prepare yourself, family, pets and property. Having a plan in place can give you peace of mind and could save your life. Know where to take shelter and where to turn for critical weather information.
With the majority of employee’s teleworking, this has been an ideal time for construction and remodeling of our facilities. The upgrading of the Multi-Purpose Building is coming along, all the lavatories within the Aviation Records Building are being remodeled to current standards, and some improvement efforts are underway in the Headquarters building.
While we are limited in being able to gather, on April 17th from 9am-Noon, the Aeronautical Center is participating in our annual volunteer event for OKC Beautiful called "LitterBlitz," where we can give back and help to clean up our environment in a safe and easy way. Even though the activity is outdoors, masks and physical distancing is required, and gloves and trash bags will be provided.
This is a great opportunity to connect with friends and co-workers at a time when many are feeling isolated and disconnected. Also, that same day until 4pm, on OKC Scissortail Park’s great lawn, the city’s second annual Kite Expo will be taking place. It’s another socially distanced outdoor activity for the whole family. You can bring your own kite, purchase one there, or just enjoy the spectacle of observing so many shapes of color flying in the air. It’s good to welcome spring.
Kindly,
Michelle Coppedge
Director, Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center
