expanding paths to prosperity
Recently, I had the opportunity to attend the Talent Summit hosted by the Wichita Business Journal. One thing was clear: our community is hungry for bold, innovative solutions to the workforce challenges we face—not only in addressing today’s labor shortages but also in preparing our local talent today for the jobs of tomorrow.
Wichita is already making strides. Through USD 259’s Future Ready program, high school students gain in-demand skills while completing their education, emerging workforce-ready and equipped to earn a livable wage. Programs like the City’s “Way to Work” give young people early exposure to the workplace and build the professional habits employers are looking for. I’ve also seen firsthand how our public libraries are bridging generational gaps by offering digital literacy classes for retirees and seniors eager to remain active contributors to today’s economy. Not to mention the dynamic programs like Next Step Alliance, a partnership between Goodwill Industries of Kansas andWSU Tech that offer GED, ESL and college certification for diverse populations.
The foundation is being laid—but we can and must do more.
When our campaign speaks about expanding economic prosperity, we mean exactly that: prosperity for everyone. The truth is, when our local economy thrives, we all benefit. But for prosperity to be equitable, we must rethink who we consider “talent” and how we meet people where they are.
The Challenges Holding Us Back
Too often, structural barriers block the path to opportunity. A suspended driver’s license, for example, can prevent someone from commuting to work—especially with limited bus routes and operating hours. At a recent community event, I heard from a resident who spent up to $45 a day on rideshare services just to stay employed once her 30-day agency-funded transportation ran out. Nearly half her paycheck went to getting to work.
Another neighbor shared how a past eviction forced them into housing with poor conditions. Afraid to speak up about safety concerns, they stayed silent, fearing retaliation and displacement. No one had helped them understand the legal avenues to clear their record and stabilize their future. These stories are not rare.
Across Kansas, we’re also facing what economists call a demographic cliff—a projected 15% decline in traditional college enrollment over the next decade—and a rising retirement rate that’s leaving large gaps in our workforce. Add in restrictive policies that disproportionately harm formerly incarcerated citizens, and we’ve got a serious challenge on our hands. But local government can do something.
My Proposed Solutions
Local government should act as a convener—bringing together schools, employers, nonprofits, and the legal sector. I want to partner with organizations like the Wichita Bar Association to expand legal clinics that help residents overcome barriers like evictions, suspended licenses, and past convictions. We must also support workforce programs like Wichita Promise and Spero, which provide pathways into trades, tech, and entrepreneurship—not just for high schoolers, but for older adults, retirees, and formerly incarcerated citizens, too.
Our partnership with USD 259 must be a priority. Future Ready is a model we can expand—connecting students with internships, city careers, and civic opportunities to keep our homegrown talent right here. Studies show students involved in career-readiness programs are 30% more likely to graduate and pursue higher education or employment right after high school.
When we invest in enrichment programs and workforce pipelines, we reduce youth crime, boost job retention, and increase our city’s economic resilience.
Expanding economic prosperity doesn’t always require building something new. The tools are already in place—but the ecosystem must work together. As a candidate and future District 1 representative, I see my role as a convener, connector, and champion for economic opportunity.
This work is vital to the future of Wichita—and it starts now. I am ready to get to work on Day 1. But I’ll need your support to help me get there. Can I count you in?
Click here for more ways to get involved, or learn more about my platform here.
Onward!
Joseph
