SE Kansas News

On Monday, the new Boeing CEO Kelly Ortberg and Boeing’s Chairman of the Board Steven Mollenkopf visited Wichita. They toured Spirit AeroSystems to review current operations, including defense programs contracted out to Spirit and the final integration process of the 737 MAX. Discussions were held regarding Boeing's agreement to acquire Spirit and its implications for Wichita's workforce.

For several years, efforts have been made alongside Spirit AeroSystems and other aviation companies in Wichita to diversify the manufacturing industry. This has resulted in new defense contracts, partnerships, and jobs within the aerospace sector. It remains a priority that Spirit’s defense work continues in Wichita.

Following their visit to Spirit AeroSystems, Ortberg and Mollenkopf toured WSU-Tech’s National Center for Aviation Training (NCAT) facility. The visit aimed to understand NCAT's research capabilities and its role in training future aviation workers. The collaboration with Boeing is expected to build a talent pipeline meeting diverse demands in aviation.

Monday's visit was seen as crucial for restoring trust in Boeing among Wichita residents. Attendees included local officials such as Governor Laura Kelly, Wichita Mayor Lily Wu, Sedgwick County Commissioner Ryan Baty, and representatives from companies involved in Boeing’s supply chain.

The tour continued across Kansas with various stops:

- In Trego County, discussions were held at Western Cooperative Electric Association about a proposed transmission line by the Department of Energy.

- At Gove County Medical Center in Quinter, renovations were reviewed along with ongoing challenges faced by the medical center.

- Northwest Kansas Educational Service Center hosted discussions on educational challenges.

- A legislative update was given at Goodland Kiwanis Club where federal resources for local police were announced.

- Citizens Medical Center in Colby received federal funding announcements for equipment upgrades.

- A town hall at Wallace County Senior Center addressed issues such as farm bills and border security.

The week concluded with participation in the grand opening of Kansas Institute of Diesel Technology’s new expansion project.

Concerns over a Department of Energy proposal led to plans for introducing legislation against eminent domain use funded by federal taxpayer dollars.

Lastly, a visit was made to Space Foundation Discovery Center post-renovation which now includes upgraded lab spaces like Mars Robotics Laboratory and Science on the Sphere facilities.