Wichita State’s Innovation Campus with Everett

Transcript

Everett came to Wichita State from Texas and he’s here to tell us about Wichita State’s Innovation campus. Back in 2014, the innovation campus was a golf course and now it’s home to more than 50 companies and dozens of state-of-the-art labs and facilities where students work, research, and learn. Let’s hear more about it from Everett.

– Hey, Alex. Thanks for the great introduction. Growing up, my granddad always encouraged my curiosity. He was an engineer and knew the value of learning from books. He also knew the value of getting hands-on experience, even if it meant getting your hands a little dirty. This led me to want to be like him. I knew I wanted to find a university that offered research opportunities, resources and equipment for students to create the fun ideas and innovations we dream up. I immediately toured the campus and realized that WSU is a welcoming community of students, staff, and faculty who all work to help students. The Chair of Electrical Engineering program met with me and gave me a tour of Wichita State’s Innovation campus, which was transformed from a golf course into a hub for research and applied learning. More than 50 agencies and businesses have homes here including Airbus, Textron Aviation, the Smart Factory by Deloitte at Wichita, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco Firearms and Explosives, and the YMCA, and all those businesses employ Wichita State students for paid applied learning experiences. And the innovation campus is just steps away from our classes. WSU staff and faculty create an environment that encourages innovative thinking and personal growth. This holistic support has fostered my academic development and prepared me for challenges beyond the classroom, but it’s not all work on the innovation campus. Braeburn Square is a dining, shopping and relaxation destination for all Wichitans. I’ve made lifelong friends and built an invaluable skill set and support network. There’s one thing that I would tell a future student, it’s that you get back what you put in. Back to you, Alex.

– Thanks Everett. The innovation campus was originally envisioned as a place to learn, work, live, and play, and Wichita State has certainly accomplished that. The university’s connection to industry is truly remarkable and it’s an amazing opportunity for all students. Thank you again for sharing your story, Everett. That was awesome.