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Minutes for SB174 - Committee on Ways and Means
Short Title
Authorizing Wichita area technical college to affiliate with Wichita state University.
Minutes Content for Mon, Feb 20, 2017
Chairperson McGinn opened the hearing on SB 174. Jill Wolters provided an overview of the bill and responded to questions from Committee members. (Attachment 2)
Dr. Blake Flanders spoke in support of the bill. This is modeled after an affiliation between Washburn University and the Washburn Institute of Technology and would further improve the partnership between Wichita State University and the Wichita Area Technical College. Dr. Flanders responded to questions from Committee members regarding making the language more generic to allow other institutions to take advantage of this type of arrangement. (Attachment 3)
Gary Plummer testified as a proponent of the bill as it would strengthen both institutions and benefit the business community, as well. (Attachment 4)
Jeff Fluhr stood in support of the bill. This partnership will create economic growth in the region and state through a well trained and educated workforce. This affiliation is an important step to assuring long-term employee training and education. (Attachment 5)
Lyndon Wells spoke as a proponent of the bill. His Board unanimously supports this affiliation as it will ensure employers and industries have access to a globally competitive workforce, as well as helping to boost our state and local economies. (Attachment 6)
Sheree Utash testified in support of the bill. It's important to grow workforce and develop the state and area economically. The Wichita Area Technical College will continue to provide open access and affordable fees for students. Ms. Utash responded to questions from Committee members. (Attachment 7)
John Bardo testified as a proponent of the bill. The change in structure will not have a negative impact and, when there are shortages in particular areas, Wichita State University can use its marketing arm to reach out nationally. This will also help combat the trend of recent college graduates leaving the state. Mr. Bardo responded to questions from Committee members. (Attachment 8)
Written testimony in support of the bill was submitted by:
Eric Burks, President, Kansas Association of Technical Colleges (Attachment 9)
Shelley Hansel, Chair, Regional Economic Area Partnership and Mayor of Wellington, Kansas (Attachment 10)
Justin Welner, Spirit AeroSystems (Attachment 11)
There being no further conferees, Chairperson McGinn closed the hearing on SB 174.
