As the state's largest county, locals are proud to call Butler County The Golden Land of Opportunity for its solid economic base, six industrial business parks and plentiful water supplies. Petroleum production and refining are the top contributors to the region's economy, along with several manufacturing plants.

Small towns in the midst of a larger metropolitan area, such as Newton in Harvey County, have provided the perfect fit for several national employers looking to expand. The Newton City/County Airport, rail access, highway access to routes in all four directions and local incentives give Harvey County a competitive edge. This is highly apparent, as over the past five years, Harvey County has averaged more than $15 million in new capital investment and 201 new jobs per year.

Companies in Sedgwick County are responsible for more than 60 percent of the world's general aviation aircraft, but Wichita's diverse exports reach well beyond airplanes. Manufacturers here produce everything from motorcycles to computer storage devices, earning Sedgwick County companies the Kansas Exporter of the Year Award for the past two years. Residents boast an excellent quality of life here, which was recognized by Forbes magazine when Wichita was named the cheapest place in the country to get a great house in an upscale neighborhood along with things like luxury cars and private schools.

Known as the Wheat Capital of the World, an aviation business cluster is also highly prominent in Sumner county, along with several major manufacturing and service industries. Residents enjoy recreation, history and beauty, which may be why The Progressive Farmer named Sumner County among the Best Places to Live in Rural America in 2005. Cowley College is stationed here, providing top notch educations and customized workforce training.

The 2012 Business Images magazine is a spectacular new edition that showcases the best of the Wichita community - its people, natural beauty and progressive business climate - through all original features and photography. Click on the image below to view the digital copy.