Apr 11, 2023

Governor Kelly Celebrates 2022 Exporter of the Year Textron Aviation

WICHITA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Textron Aviation in Wichita to officially honor the company for being named the 2022 Governor’s Exporter of the Year. Textron Aviation, which manufactures well-known brand aircraft such as Beechcraft and Cessna, exports its products and services to more than 170 countries.

“As Exporter of the Year, Textron Aviation is showing the world what separates Kansas from the pack – and why more and more businesses are finding a home here in Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Its impressive global reach was a major contributor to our state’s record-setting $14 billion in exports last year. Congratulations to Textron Aviation on this outstanding recognition.”

The Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award is the top export business award presented annually by the State of Kansas. It was presented to Textron Aviation last October during the Kansas Department of Commerce’s To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards banquet in Topeka.

“The international market is important to Textron Aviation and the state of Kansas. It brings outside revenue into our state and highlights our products, services, and capabilities on the international stage,” Textron Aviation President and CEO Ron Draper said. “We are honored to receive the 2022 Governor’s Exporter of the Year Award and look forward to working with other Kansas companies seeking similar success.”

Textron Aviation’s export business supports its global workforce. In addition, the approximately 10,500-strong team in Kansas supports thousands of Main Street jobs in the Wichita market. Studies show that for each aviation job, there is a seven-time local multiplier benefit.

“Textron Aviation’s international success serves as yet another reminder that Wichita is the Air Capital of the World,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Textron Aviation deserves this prestigious honor for its substantial contributions to Kansas’ record-breaking economy – and exemplifies our state’s solid reputation as a place where innovation thrives.”

Textron Aviation was one of three finalists for the award, joined by DataLocker and Industrial Accessories Company, both located in Johnson County. The Exporter of the Year award process for 2023 is currently underway. For more information or to nominate a business, click here.

Photos from this visit available for media use are below: