Joe Epperley

About Joe Epperley

I’ve been crafting clear, strategic communications since before “brand” was a verb. Over the years, I’ve helped organizations find their voice, sharpen their message, and talk like real people—even when the topic is technical, messy, or politically charged.For more than two decades, I’ve served as Director of Communications for the Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance, working at the crossroads of industry, policy, and public trust. I tell the story of manufacturing across Oklahoma, from automation breakthroughs in Broken Arrow to workforce wins in the panhandle. My job is to make sure the right people hear the right message at the right time. And that it actually means something.I’ve led statewide campaigns, built mobile outreach initiatives, produced messaging that’s moved legislation, and created content that’s helped secure millions in funding. I’ve also had a front-row seat to the ways strategic communications can either build partnerships, or blow them up.If you care about Oklahoma, industry, or just appreciate a good story well told, I’m always up for a conversation.

Experience

1. Communications Director

   Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance

   Sep 2001 — Present · OK, US

   Lead communications strategy for a statewide nonprofit driving manufacturing growth, workforce development, and economic resilience. Oversee all messaging, marketing, and media relations for programs that support more than manufacturers across Oklahoma.Shape messaging that supports policy advocacy, workforce initiatives, and technology adoption, working closely with business leaders, state agencies, and elected officials.Develop and produce high-impact collateral, including reports, campaigns, and multimedia content that convey technical subjects with clarity and purpose.Manage executive communications and crisis messaging, including recent efforts surrounding the loss of federal MEP funding and OMA’s statewide response.Provide editorial leadership across all public channels, from newsletters and social media to legislative briefings and press outreach.Support funding efforts by translating economic data and impact metrics into persuasive narratives that helped secure millions in public investment.Collaborate with internal teams and external partners to align messaging across programs, ensuring consistency and measurable engagement with key audiences.Coordinate strategic storytelling that highlights Oklahoma manufacturing success stories—amplifying the voice of small and medium-sized firms often overlooked in national discourse.

Education

• University of Oklahoma

  Journalism

Skills

• Team Building
• Public Affairs
• Public Speaking
• Community Relations
• Editing
• Manufacturing
• Strategic Planning
• Public Relations
• Legislative Affairs
• Marketing
• Leadership Development
• Strategy
• Program Management
• Marketing Communications