20-03-2025
WF Chamber of Commerce hosts State of Economy forum: discuss growth, opportunities, and connection
WICHITA FALLS (KFDX/KJTL) — Opportunities, growth, and connection were at the top of the discussion during this year's 'State of the Economy' event hosted by the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce on Wednesday, March 19.
It was a packed house inside the Sikes Lake Center as city leaders, business owners and many others joined together to talk about growth for the City of Wichita Falls.
Ron Kitchens, president and CEO of the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce, said the event is vital for change.
'[It's] critically important to celebrate success. We have to craft a vision each year, and then we all got to make a commitment,' Kitchens said. 'We can either be victims of change or victors of change. Today was about creating victory for the future.'
Kitchens also said strengthening connections with MSU and Sheppard Air Force Base would also be vital for the growth of Wichita Falls.
'Between MSU and Sheppard Air Force Base, that's about 60 percent of our local economy. They're critical not just today for jobs, but they're critical to our future,' Kitchens said.
Kitchens said the Wichita Falls economy has been thriving over the past two years.
'You know, the national hiccups going on. We've got, you know, a $.5 billion in investment going on now. We've had $1 billion investment in the last 30 months,' Kitchens said.
Kitchen mentioned that there are new jobs and significant announcements on the way for the city.
Also at the event, Carol Wagner and Richard Bundy were named Wichitans of the Year. That is an award to recognize those who help shape the city.
The chamber's next big event, Leader Fest 2025, is coming up in August. Click here for more information on how to get your tickets.
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