Colorado native Kylee Deniz originally moved to Oklahoma as many do: to get college educated. With an Oklahoma State University degree under her belt and no stranger to the stock show ring, Kylee quickly rose the ranks in Oklahoma’s agriculture industry. Since 2021, she has served as executive director of Oklahoma Pork Council, the leading organization representing the pork industry across Oklahoma. Farm life only continues when she goes home to her family’s ranch, just outside Oklahoma City city limits. Kylee joined Live in Oklahoma to spotlight Oklahoma’s agricultural industry and explain why raising her sons in rural Oklahoma feels like a dream come true.
Nice to chat, Kylee. Tell me a little about what your life in Oklahoma looks like.
My family and I live on a ranch just outside Oklahoma City, where we embrace the rural Oklahoma lifestyle. I’m fortunate to balance a career I’m passionate about while raising two young boys alongside my husband. As the executive director of the Oklahoma Pork Council, I dedicate my days to advocating for producers, leading strategic initiatives, and ensuring a bright future for pork production in our state. Our lives revolve around agriculture — caring for livestock, supporting our rural community, and appreciating simple things like a breathtaking Oklahoma sunset.
You’ve been very successful in your career. You could go anywhere. Why stay in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma is more than where I work — it’s home. Oklahomans are incredibly kind, resilient and hardworking. Staying in Oklahoma gives me the chance to do work that matters while raising my young boys with strong values in a place where neighbors still look out for one another.
Every place I’ve lived has shaped me in some way. Oklahoma stands out for its unique blend of tradition and progress making it an inspiring and fulfilling place to live and work.
When you moved to Oklahoma initially, what surprised you most?
When I moved to Oklahoma to start my undergraduate degree at Oklahoma State University, I was immediately struck by the genuine warmth and hospitality of the people. The strong sense of community and deep connection to agriculture made it feel like home from the very beginning. It quickly became clear that Oklahoma was the perfect place to grow, both personally and professionally.
What opportunities has living in Oklahoma given you and your family?
Professionally, Oklahoma has provided me with the opportunity to lead a respected membership organization, cultivate meaningful relationships and advocate for the pork industry in ways that make a lasting impact on our farmers and the broader food system. Personally, it has allowed my husband and I to embrace the life we’ve always dreamed of — raising our boys in a rural setting rooted in strong values.
We love the charm of small-town living while being close enough to Oklahoma City to enjoy exciting sporting events, excellent healthcare, and outstanding educational opportunities.
You’re a leader in Oklahoma’s agricultural industry. What makes the state’s ag scene so unique?
Oklahoma’s agricultural scene is unique because it strikes a perfect balance between honoring tradition and embracing innovation. The state’s agricultural community is built on strong values like hard work, trust, and a deep commitment to the land. At the same time, Oklahoma agriculturalists are continually seeking ways to improve farming practices and enhance the sustainability of the food system. Whether in production agriculture, advocacy, marketing or leadership roles within industry associations, Oklahoma offers a diverse range of opportunities. Oklahoma is a place where you can build a fulfilling career while making a difference in your community.
You’re a mom of two. What is it like raising a family in rural Oklahoma?
Raising a family in Oklahoma is truly a blessing. Our boys have the freedom to explore the outdoors, learn the value of integrity, and grow up in a close-knit community. For parents considering a move here, you’ll find a safe, welcoming environment with incredible youth leadership programs like 4-H and FFA, and neighbors who quickly become like family.
I understand 4-H and FFA had a big impact on you growing up. In that vein, what opportunities does Oklahoma provide for youth interested in agriculture?
Oklahoma is home to some of the best youth agriculture programs in the country. In fact, the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry has officially designated 2025 as the “Year of Youth in Agriculture.” Through programs like 4-H, FFA, and youth livestock events such as the Oklahoma Youth Expo, kids gain valuable life skills, develop leadership qualities, and explore career opportunities. For families interested in agriculture, Oklahoma offers countless ways to learn, grow, and get involved in the agriculture industry.
What kinds of things do you do in your free time?
Our family enjoys the great outdoors, whether we’re working on the ranch or spending time at our pond. We also love exploring Oklahoma City, where we support local businesses, try new restaurants and cheer on the Oklahoma City Thunder. And, of course, you’ll often find us at livestock shows and other agricultural events.
What misconceptions do you think people tend to have about living in Oklahoma? What’s the reality, in your opinion?
People often assume Oklahoma is flat, rural, and outdated, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. The state is incredibly diverse in both geography and culture. We have vibrant cities and charming rural towns. Oklahoma is home to the best land-grant university in the country: Oklahoma State University. Go Pokes! In addition, we have stunning lakes, unique tourist destinations like Broken Bow and a dynamic food scene that spans the entire state.
You have three sentences to flip an Oklahoma naysayer. What would you say to convince them it’s a great place to live?
Oklahoma is a place where you can truly make a difference. With a growing economy, top-tier education and a rich agricultural heritage, it offers everything you need to build a meaningful career and raise a family. Whether you seek adventure, connection or opportunity, Oklahoma has it all.
Any last words of wisdom?
Our culture is becoming more disconnected from the farm, but the good news is we have incredible Oklahoma farmers working tirelessly to ensure every store shelf across our state is stocked with safe, affordable and nutritious food. It is an honor for me to live and work in a state where agriculture continues to play such a vital role in our daily lives and the health of our communities. I am Oklahoma proud.
