Governor Kelly Announces $14M Capital Investment Creating 110 Jobs in Wellington

TOPEKA — Governor Laura Kelly announced today that Elite Harness is investing $14 million, creating 110 new jobs, in Wellington. Elite Harness will refurbish an existing facility into a 50,000-square-foot state-of-the-art manufacturing plant.

Elite will produce wiring harnesses and custom cables for various sectors, including automotive, industrial, agricultural, aerospace, and other industries requiring electrical connections.

“Elite Harness’ decision to invest in Wellington is a testament to the work my administration has done to attract economic development to every corner of the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The additional high-tech manufacturing jobs and opportunities are further examples that our world-class workforce, and strong infrastructure makes Kansas the best state to start or expand a business.”  

The wiring harness and custom cable market currently is a $90 billion industry poised for significant growth over the next decade. Elite is committed to staying at the forefront of this industry by employing the most advanced equipment and leveraging the latest technology.

“We have a sister company that is located in Tulsa, so we considered building there, but the State of Kansas and Sumner County really stepped up to the plate and made Wellington a wise choice for us,” Elite Harness President Nathan Smith said.

“Kansas has developed a reputation as the go-to state for new and expanding major businesses,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Having Elite in Wellington not only will continue to boost the economy, but also bring over 100 new jobs to rural Kansas. Elite exemplifies how Governor Kelly is fulfilling her promise to bring prosperity to all areas of the state.”

Smith credited Stacy Davis of the Sumner County Economic Development Commission as being instrumental in bringing Elite to Kansas.

“The Sumner County Economic Development mission is to grow communities through business activity with innovative economic development programs,” Sumner County Economic Development Commission Director Stacy Davis said. “Having a company like Elite Harness expand their company in Wellington underscores the value of investing in rural Kansas towns.”

Elite will showcase the updated facility and cutting-edge equipment during an open house in June 2024.