News

Former DCCCA worker picked to lead Office of Early Childhood

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly nominated the leader of a Kansas organization working to connect families with quality and affordable child care to serve as the first director of the state’s Office of Early Childhood. Kelly recommended the Kansas Senate confirm Christi Smith, who works as ...

Governor to focus on budget, water and children in 2026

TOPEKA — Gov. Laura Kelly approached the final year of her second term with a familiar plea that the Kansas Legislature pass a reasonable budget and a bleak realization the state wouldn’t be able to compensate for federal reductions in spending on health care and food programs. The bell ...

Walmart and other U.S. companies want to build a pipeline of skilled tradespeople

BENTONVILLE, Ark. — As the number of skilled tradespeople dwindles in the United States, Walmart is trying to build up its own workforce to keep conveyor belts moving, refrigerated grocery cases cold, and drains and parking lots flowing. The nation's largest retailer and private employer ...