Does Wichita have an attitude problem? Does the city collectively have low esteem? Certainly we have needs and problems, as every community does. A lot of it is created by politicians, and enforced by the media. Politics is a negative business to begin with, more so in today's world, unfortunately. In order to get support, they denigrate their opponents. 

While there is always room for improvement, Wichita has a lot going for it:

• Our aircraft industry plays a big part in the industry world-wide, and continues to adapt to the world market.  Cessna/Textron is growing, and with agreements signed with China along with their other market share should have a solid future. Spirit is strong and has just announced records earnings. Projections call for steady and increased production for Boeing and thus Spirit. A great upside.
• If we only measure the industry by jobs that were once here and not by new successes we will always have negative attitudes about it. All manufacturing is moving to modern techniques in order to stay competitive. Many job openings are there today, but they require new skills. Training is available for those who pursue it.
• The recent announcement of NIAR expanding into some of the old Boeing facility is very positive and should have great potential to attract new aircraft related and other industry.
• The Innovation Campus at WSU is progressing on schedule with great promises for the future. 
• Koch Industries continues to grow and hire at pay scales well above the average in Wichita.
• Union Station, after sitting idle for most of the last 40 years, has come back to life. New owner Occidental Management (an active WIBA member) has leased all of it's space and construction is in progress. With it's central location, this will be a great addition to the Old Town area.
• The new state-of-the-art Eisenhower International Airport terminal is now open and will be a great first impression for visitors.
• The 2018 NCAA Regional Basketball at Intrust Arena will give a one-time boost to the economy, but also great exposure for the city. 

I would be remiss if I did not point out that almost all of the above progress is being done with minimal government involvement.

Low city self esteem? We should be busting our buttons!

Safety Consideration for the Aging Worker

By Nancy Wilson, PT, CEAS
Owner

For the first time in the history of American business four different generations are in the work place at the same time. This can cause communication, management and work site safety issues and increased workers' compensation claims. It should be noted that "older employees" can be defined from 40 to 55 and over, depending on the agency.

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