CYBERICT: WICHITA, THE NATION'S CYBER INNOVATION HUB
Wichita is becoming a national leader in cybersecurity and defense. With a highly skilled workforce, cutting-edge research institutions, and a growing tech ecosystem, the region is attracting startups, defense contractors and Fortune 500 companies.
CYBERSECURITY WORKFORCE STRENGTHS
-
Wichita is home to more than 9,000 networking, IT and cybersecurity professionals.
-
Over 400 local professionals hold CompTIA Security+ and related certifications.
-
The 184th Wing of the Air National Guard at McConnell Air Force Base includes approximately 500 trained cybersecurity personnel and three advanced squadrons including:
-
177th Information Aggressor Squadron — the only NSA-certified Red Team in the Air National Guard.
-
127th Cyberspace Operations Squadron — identifies and removes digital threats across Air Force systems.
-
299th Network Operations Security Squadron — provides layered cyber defense for the Air Force; one of just three such units in the nation and the only one in the Guard.
-
CYBER-FOCUSED EDUCATION
Wichita’s educational institutions are preparing students at all levels for careers in cybersecurity.
Butler Community College
-
Associate degree in cybersecurity.
-
Certification prep for:
-
TestOut (PC Pro, Network Pro, Security Pro, Server Pro).
-
CompTIA (A+, Network+, Security+, Project+).
-
Microsoft MCSA.
-
Cisco CCNA.
Kansas Promise Scholarship
-
Covers tuition for high-demand programs, including cybersecurity and IT.
-
Eligible for up to 68 credit hours or $20,000 per student.
Wichita Public School, USD 259
-
The FutureReady Technology H.A.C.K. (Hub for Advanced Computer Knowledge) offers students in grades 9–12 hands-on programs focused on careers in cybersecurity, data analytics and computer programming.
Wichita State University
-
Home to the Hub for Cybersecurity Education and Awareness (HCEA).
-
Operates the National Institute for Research and Digital Transformation.
-
Ranked the top cybersecurity degree program in Kansas (Research.com, 2024).
Friends University
-
Hosts the INTRUST Bank Cyber Security Lab, one of only three of its kind nationwide.
-
Offers:
-
Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cybersecurity.
-
Industry certifications (Security+, Network+, Linux+).
-
FriendsFlex fully online program.
-
WSU Tech
-
Programs in cloud computing, IT systems and cybersecurity.
-
Offers associate degrees, technical certificates and certificate programs.
ENHANCING CYBER INFRASTRUCTURE
-
The greater Wichita region has over 350 aerospace companies and 900 manufacturers, many of which must meet Department of Defense cybersecurity standards.
-
More than 110 IT-sector businesses are headquartered in the Wichita region, including major players like Koch Industries and Spirit AeroSystems, which include large cyber and tech divisions.
-
Wichita State University will soon host the first Internet Exchange Point (IXP) in Kansas, boosting internet speed and reliability across the region.
WHY WICHITA?
With strong defense ties, a growing cyber talent pipeline and an affordable business environment, the Wichita region is a launchpad for cybersecurity growth and innovation.
CyberICT boasts more than 9,000 professionals in networking, information technology and cybersecurity — including advanced Air Force squadrons and one of only three cyber defense units in the U.S. Air Force.
With a thriving cybersecurity ecosystem and expanding cyber-focused education programs, Wichita is quickly becoming a national hub for cyber innovation. Make Wichita your next strategic investment.
CyberICT news
CONNECT WITH US
Andrew Nave
Executive Vice President of Economic Development
Greater Wichita Partnership, CyberICT
(316) 500.6650
andrew@greaterwichitapartnership.org