Wichita, Kansas

Air Capital of the World

Located in south-central Kansas, Wichita is the largest city in the state with a population of over 389,000 people.

Wichita, affectionately known as the "Air Capital of the World," has a rich heritage in aviation that continues to soar to new heights. The city has a long and proud history of aviation, dating back to the early 1900s when companies like Cessna, Beechcraft, and Stearman Aircraft began operating in the area. The city's skies are filled with the legacy and future of flight. Today, Wichita is home to a thriving aerospace industry, with over 35,000 people employed in the sector.

Wichita's aerospace industry is diverse and includes everything from aircraft manufacturing and engineering to maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services. The city is home to some of the world's leading aviation companies, including Textron Aviation, Spirit AeroSystems, and Bombardier Aerospace. These companies have helped establish Wichita as a global leader in the aerospace industry, with products and services that are used by airlines and governments around the world.

But Wichita's wings span beyond aviation; it's a community where creativity and innovation thrive in the arts, cuisine, and entrepreneurship. In addition to aerospace, Wichita has a thriving advanced manufacturing sector that includes everything from automotive parts and machinery to medical devices and electronics. The city is home to a number of innovative companies, including Koch Industries, which is one of the largest privately held companies in the world. Wichita's advanced manufacturing industry benefits from a highly skilled workforce and a supportive business environment that encourages innovation and growth.

Another key sector of the Wichita economy is healthcare. The city is home to several world-class hospitals and medical centers, including Wesley Medical Center and Via Christi Health. These institutions provide a range of services, including advanced surgery, cancer treatment, and cardiovascular care, among others.

Wichita offers a wealth of economic opportunities for businesses and investors. Its diverse economy, highly skilled workforce, and supportive business environment make it an attractive destination for a range of industries. Whether you are looking to start a new business, expand your operations, or invest in the future, Wichita is a city worth considering.

Nestled along the Arkansas River, the city's picturesque waterfront is the backdrop to the iconic Keeper of the Plains statue, a symbol of unity and strength. This stunning piece, standing tall at the confluence of the Big and Little Arkansas rivers, represents the deep-rooted connection Wichita has with the Native American heritage and the natural beauty of the Kansas landscape.

As the largest city in Kansas, Wichita doesn't shy away from its responsibility as a cultural hub. The Wichita Art Museum and the Ulrich Museum of Art offer windows into worlds of artistic expression, while the Music Theatre Wichita stages bring Broadway's sparkle to the heartland. These institutions, along with vibrant local music and food scenes, make the city a mosaic of cultural experiences.

Sports enthusiasts find their calling in Wichita as well. Whether it's cheering for the Wichita State Shockers, especially during the excitement of college basketball season, or supporting the Wichita Thunder hockey team, the city's community spirit is palpable in arenas and stadiums across town.

Education and innovation walk hand in hand in Wichita, with institutions like Wichita State University leading the way in research and development, particularly in aerospace and engineering. This synergy between academia and industry propels the city into new frontiers of knowledge and technology.

For those with a taste for the outdoors, Wichita's parks and green spaces offer a serene escape from the urban hustle. From the expansive Sedgwick County Park to the meticulously manicured gardens of Botanica, Wichita embraces nature's tranquility and beauty.

Family-friendly attractions like the Sedgwick County Zoo, Exploration Place, and the Old Cowtown Museum provide interactive learning experiences that bring history and science to life. These spaces not only educate but also entertain, making Wichita a wonderful place for family adventures.

The spirit of entrepreneurship thrives in Wichita's business landscape, where local startups and established businesses alike contribute to a dynamic and growing economy. The Greater Wichita Partnership plays a pivotal role in fostering this environment, driving investment, and supporting innovation.

Wichita's culinary scene is a melting pot of flavors, with a rich tapestry of food offerings that span from traditional Kansas BBQ to global cuisines. Local farmers' markets and farm-to-table restaurants underscore the city's commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

At the heart of it all, Wichita's greatest asset is its people. A community characterized by friendliness, resilience, and a can-do spirit, Wichitans embody the values of kindness, collaboration, and pride in their city. It's this spirit that makes Wichita not just a place to live, but a place to call home.

Wichita's entrepreneurial spirit is bolstered by a vibrant ecosystem that supports startups and innovation. The city is home to several incubators and accelerators, such as the e2e Accelerator, which provide resources and mentorship to early-stage companies. This nurturing environment encourages risk-taking and fosters a culture of innovation, vital for the economy's continuous growth and diversification.

The city also takes pride in its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives. Projects like the Wichita Sustainability Integration Plan aim to enhance environmental stewardship while promoting economic development and social equity. Wichita's green efforts are evident in its renewable energy projects, water conservation measures, and sustainable urban planning, making it a leader in eco-friendly practices in the region.

Wichita's rich history is woven into the fabric of the city, with landmarks such as the Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum and the Kansas Aviation Museum preserving its storied past. These institutions, along with annual events like the Wichita River Festival, celebrate the city's heritage, connecting residents and visitors with Wichita's diverse cultural roots.

The city's commitment to community health and well-being is evident in its extensive network of walking and biking trails, such as the Arkansas River Path, which provide accessible options for recreation and exercise. Additionally, initiatives like the Wichita Bike Share program demonstrate the city's dedication to promoting active lifestyles and alternative transportation.

Wichita's thriving arts scene is further enriched by grassroots organizations and community-led events that showcase local talent and creativity. Events like Final Friday, a monthly art crawl, and the Tallgrass Film Festival, an annual celebration of independent cinema, highlight the city's artistic diversity and vibrant cultural landscape.

The spirit of community service is strong in Wichita, with numerous organizations and volunteers dedicated to making a positive impact. Programs like the United Way of the Plains and the Wichita Volunteer Center exemplify the city's commitment to helping those in need, fostering a sense of unity and compassion among its residents.

Wichita's strategic location at the crossroads of major highways and its accessibility via the Dwight D. Eisenhower National Airport make it a convenient hub for business and travel. This connectivity not only facilitates commerce but also attracts visitors, contributing to the local economy and cultural exchange.

Education is a cornerstone of the Wichita community, with a wide range of public and private schools, as well as vocational and technical institutions, providing quality education from preschool to post-secondary levels. The commitment to education ensures a well-educated workforce, ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world.

Wichita's government and civic leaders are deeply committed to transparency, public engagement, and fostering a sense of community. Initiatives like neighborhood associations and town hall meetings encourage citizen participation in decision-making, strengthening the democratic fabric of the city.

In conclusion, Wichita's blend of industry, culture, and community spirit creates a dynamic and welcoming city. Its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and inclusivity makes it not only a great place to do business but also a vibrant community where people from all walks of life can thrive and succeed.