Partnership Showcases Regional Strengths at Global Aerospace and Space Tradeshows

The Partnership is set to highlight the Wichita region’s aerospace expertise and expanding space industry at two premier global tradeshows in April. The team will represent the Air Capital of the World at the 40th Space Symposium (April 7-10 in Colorado Springs) and exhibit at MRO Americas (April 8-10 in Atlanta). Both events offer key opportunities to promote industry diversification, the regional talent pipeline and workforce opportunities as well as south-central Kansas’ robust aviation ecosystem.

Growing Wichita’s Presence in Space

As the world’s most influential space event, the Space Symposium gathers government, military and commercial leaders to discuss the future of space exploration, defense and security. With an increasing number of Wichita-based companies diversifying into the space sector, the Partnership’s presence at this event underscores the region’s expanding capabilities.

“We’re strengthening our role in the space industry, and this event allows us to connect with decision-makers and demonstrate why the Wichita region is a prime location for aerospace and defense innovation,” said Partnership President Jeff Fluhr. “Industry diversification remains a key economic strategy, and the Space Symposium provides a global stage to highlight Wichita’s growing expertise.”

Showcasing Aviation & MRO Strengths on a Global Scale

At the same time, the Partnership will join more than 1,000 global exhibitors at MRO Americas. The team will showcase the region’s strengths in aviation manufacturing, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) and promote the region’s cost-effective MRO market, more than 350 world-class suppliers, and renowned original equipment manufacturers (OEMs). The event is also an opportunity to engage with more than 16,000 industry professionals, including airlines, MRO service providers, leasing companies and supply chain leaders.

This year, the Air Capital of the World booth (4703) will feature a lineup of regional partners, including:

• Jet AirWerks
• DAVCON
• Fiber Dynamics
• McCownGordon
• Mid-State Aerospace
• PEC
• TESSERE

The Partnership will host two happy hours to connect with fellow professionals and innovators. A special thank you to Astro Dynamic Group, the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) and the Kansas Department of Commerce for partnering with the Partnership to make these networking events successful.

Investing in Talent & the Future Workforce

Wichita is home to the nation’s No. 1 skilled aviation workforce, so talent attraction will once again be a key focus at MRO Americas. A member of the Partnership’s Talent Team will attend the show to further engage with industry professionals and potential job seekers.

Like last year’s refueling station, which was stocked with snacks and beverages, the Air Capital of the World booth will offer small bites and promotional items to encourage additional networking opportunities with the teams competing in the Aerospace Maintenance Council Competition (AMC).

A team from WSU Tech will represent the Wichita region, reinforcing the area’s deep talent pipeline and commitment to innovation.

Positioning Wichita for Continued Growth

The Partnership’s presence at Space Symposium and MRO Americas is a strategic effort to attract investment, drive industry diversification and promote Wichita as a global aerospace leader. By forging new connections and strengthening existing partnerships, these events play a crucial role in advancing the region’s economic growth.

For more information on Wichita’s aerospace, MRO, and space capabilities, visit greaterwichitapartnership.org.