School Bond Creates a Stronger Workforce for Wichita

For Asher, finding the right career path did more than shape his future. It changed how he approached school, gave him a sense of direction and helped him discover opportunities he hadn't previously considered.

After enrolling in one of Wichita Public Schools’ FutureReady programs, Asher noticed a difference. His “grades started improving” and his “drive went up.” Today, he’s working at Textron Aviation and plans to continue his education while building a career in the trades.

“I found that spark at the FutureReady Center,” Asher said. “It gave me the ability to start.”

His experience offers a glimpse of what career education can accomplish and what’s at stake as Wichita voters consider the $615 million USD 259 school bond on November 3. The proposal includes significant investments in career and technical education, expanding opportunities for students to explore skilled careers and prepare for the workforce.

For the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce, which has endorsed the bond, the connection is clear: investing in education today helps build the workforce Wichita businesses will depend on tomorrow.

Building the Workforce Wichita Needs

Wichita’s economy depends heavily on industries that require specialized skills, particularly aviation, manufacturing and construction.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, production occupations accounted for 10.8% of employment in the Wichita metropolitan area in May 2025, nearly double the national average of 5.5%.

That concentration highlights the importance of preparing students for careers that support some of the region’s largest industries.

For employers such as Dondlinger Construction, introducing students to career opportunities early is an important part of building a stronger workforce.

“We try to get involved in the talent pool as early as possible to tell the story of ourselves and market the industry,” said David Dellinger, HR Business Partner for Dondlinger Construction. “Ultimately, letting someone get into the industry and find what they want for themselves is what we do.”

Those early connections help students discover careers they might otherwise overlook. They also give businesses an opportunity to introduce the skills, experiences and career pathways available right here in Wichita.

But connecting students to those opportunities requires more than interest from employers. It takes accessible programs, community partnerships and support that helps young people move from the classroom into the workforce.

Keith Lawing, CEO of the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas, sees that connection as an essential part of preparing the next generation.

“How do we get high school kids into the workforce? We have to connect the youth to high school programs,” Lawing said. “We’re trying to be the middle ground…and eliminate the barriers.”

Expanding Opportunities for the Next Generation

Programs like FutureReady are already demonstrating what career education can accomplish.

Wichita Public Schools currently offers FutureReady programs in fields including aviation, advanced manufacturing, healthcare and information technology. These programs give students opportunities to explore industries, develop practical skills and make more informed decisions about their futures.

The proposed $615 million USD 259 school bond on the November 3 ballot would build on those efforts.

One of the proposed investments is a $28.2 million FutureReady Center for Trades at East High School. The center would provide students across the district with access to training in carpentry, HVAC, electrical and plumbing careers.

The bond also includes approximately $35.9 million in improvements at South, Northwest, West and Heights high schools, including expanded and modernized career and technical education spaces.

These investments are part of a larger proposal to replace aging schools, preserve existing facilities and improve learning environments throughout the district.

The bond is divided into two questions. The first includes the new Trades FutureReady Center, while the second includes improvements to career and technical education facilities at the four high schools. Question 2 can only pass if Question 1 is approved.

For students, these projects could mean greater access to practical training and opportunities to discover careers that match their interests and abilities. For local employers, they represent another opportunity to strengthen the pipeline of skilled workers who will support Wichita’s economy for years to come.

Why the Chamber Supports the Investment

Recognizing the importance of that workforce pipeline, the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors voted in August to endorse the USD 259 school bond.

“For the Chamber, this is ultimately a talent issue,” said Brecken Morel, Interim President and CEO of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce. “Our ability to attract employers and develop the workforce our businesses need is closely connected to the quality of our schools. Supporting the infrastructure where our future workforce learns is an investment in Wichita’s ability to compete.”

The Chamber recognizes the financial significance of the proposal and the concerns surrounding property taxes. Reducing the property tax burden remains an important priority for the organization.

However, after carefully considering those concerns alongside the long term needs of Wichita’s businesses and schools, the Chamber’s Board determined that supporting the bond is an important investment in the region’s economic future.

A competitive economy requires more than attracting new businesses. It requires developing local talent, helping existing employers grow and giving young people reasons to build their futures in Wichita.

Career education is an important part of that equation.

For Asher, FutureReady helped him discover a path that led to employment, continued education and greater confidence in his future. And he isn’t the only one finding those opportunities.

“It’s great being able to watch my buddies find their footing,” Asher said. “Everybody should try the FutureReady program; there’s a spot for everyone.”

Stories like his demonstrate what’s possible when education and industry work together.

As voters consider the school bond on November 3, the decision is about more than buildings and facilities. It’s about the opportunities Wichita can create for its students and the workforce its businesses will depend on in the years ahead.

The next generation of Wichita’s workforce is already sitting in our classrooms. Investing in their opportunities today is an investment in our community’s future.

The Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce supports the USD 259 school bond and encourages voters to participate in the November 3 election.

For election information, visit the Sedgwick County Election Office.