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
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Wichita is home to more than 9,000 networking, IT and cybersecurity professionals.
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Over 400 local professionals hold CompTIA Security+ and related certifications.
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The 184th Wing of the Air National Guard at McConnell Air Force Base includes approximately 500 trained cybersecurity personnel and three advanced squadrons including:
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177th Information Aggressor Squadron — the only NSA-certified Red Team in the Air National Guard.
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127th Cyberspace Operations Squadron — identifies and removes digital threats across Air Force systems.
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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.
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CYBER-FOCUSED EDUCATION
Wichita’s educational institutions are preparing students at all levels for careers in cybersecurity.
Butler Community College
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Associate degree in cybersecurity.
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Certification prep for:
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TestOut (PC Pro, Network Pro, Security Pro, Server Pro).
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CompTIA (A+, Network+, Security+, Project+).
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Microsoft MCSA.
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Cisco CCNA.
Kansas Promise Scholarship
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Covers tuition for high-demand programs, including cybersecurity and IT.
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Eligible for up to 68 credit hours or $20,000 per student.
Wichita Public School, USD 259
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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
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Home to the Hub for Cybersecurity Education and Awareness (HCEA).
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Operates the National Institute for Research and Digital Transformation.
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Ranked the top cybersecurity degree program in Kansas (Research.com, 2024).
Friends University
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Hosts the INTRUST Bank Cyber Security Lab, one of only three of its kind nationwide.
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Offers:
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Bachelor’s and master’s degrees in cybersecurity.
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Industry certifications (Security+, Network+, Linux+).
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FriendsFlex fully online program.
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WSU Tech
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Programs in cloud computing, IT systems and cybersecurity.
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Offers associate degrees, technical certificates and certificate programs.
ENHANCING CYBER INFRASTRUCTURE
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The greater Wichita region has over 350 aerospace companies and 900 manufacturers, many of which must meet Department of Defense cybersecurity standards.
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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.
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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.
CONNECT WITH US
Andrew Nave
Executive Vice President of Economic Development
Greater Wichita Partnership, CyberICT
(316) 500.6650
andrew@greaterwichitapartnership.org