Local leaders, business owners, educators, and community stakeholders came together for the 2025 Sumner County Talent Talk, held June 17 at Cowley College’s Sumner Campus in Wellington. The event, hosted by the Sumner County Economic Development Commission (SCEDC), Cowley Community College, and the Workforce Alliance of South Central Kansas, aimed to strengthen partnerships and align workforce priorities to support economic growth in the region.
The luncheon event began with networking, followed by a welcome from Wellington Mayor Joe Soria. Participants heard updates on labor market trends, workforce initiatives, and local economic development projects. Presenters included representatives from SCEDC, the Workforce Alliance, and Cowley College, who shared insights on job fairs, skills training programs, and emerging technologies shaping the region’s future.
“The Sumner County Talent Talk was a fantastic opportunity for collaboration, bringing together elected officials, business leaders, school superintendents, and district representatives,” said Dr. Marcy Aycock, Executive Director, REAP, Workforce Centers of South Central Kansas. “The discussions not only strengthened community bonds and emphasized the value of teamwork but also highlighted successes and future opportunities.”
Key topics of the day included workforce development, youth employment, upskilling in emerging technologies, and the importance of ongoing dialogue between education and industry leaders. Participants discussed how to better align economic development plans with educational initiatives and workforce needs, with the goal of creating meaningful partnerships and strategies to support long-term growth in Sumner County.
Organizers said next steps will focus on follow-up plans to build on ideas shared during the event and continue conversations that stimulate collaboration across sectors.
For more information on workforce initiatives or to explore partnership opportunities, contact SCEDC at (620) 326-8779 or visit their website at gosumner.com.
