Electric vehicles, defense contracts, and slowdowns in traditional manufacturing are shaping job demand across the region. Here’s what that means for skilled workers in Kansas.

A $9 million Navy contract, a $4 billion battery plant, and more than a year of slow activity in traditional manufacturing, Kansas is seeing a hiring surge in areas where skilled hands are needed most. From De Soto to Overland Park, the story is not just about job growth. It’s about how specific sectors are creating new paths to steady work.

The Kansas Hiring Surge is already underway. Openings are rising, but the real challenge is knowing where to look and how to land roles that offer long-term security. That’s especially true for people in trades like electrical, machining, and assembly work.

Manufacturing Slows, but Hiring Expectations Hold

Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City shows regional manufacturing activity remained in the red for the 21st straight month this May. The composite index came in at -3, marking a slight improvement from April’s -5 reading. While still below zero, manufacturers expressed cautious optimism about future orders and employment.

Factories in areas around Olathe and Lenexa have seen slowdowns in hiring since early 2024. Still, there’s confidence that demand will return. This hesitation in traditional manufacturing means many skilled workers are in a holding pattern, waiting for the right opening or contract.

New Builds Create New Jobs for Hire

Not far from Overland Park, the town of De Soto is preparing for an employment wave. Kansas City Business Journal reports that Panasonic Energy has already onboarded over 665 workers at its electric vehicle battery plant. The company expects to staff up to 4,000 as production ramps up over the next two years.

That kind of hiring volume stands out in the current labor market. For those with mechanical, electrical, or quality control backgrounds, the timing couldn’t be better. It also means that staffing expertise will play a big role in how quickly these roles are filled. Resources like the NEXTAFF job board can help point the way to relevant openings across the region and match people with employers actively hiring for skilled roles.

Panasonic has also taken steps to connect with local students and city leaders. These early efforts help build talent pipelines across Johnson County.

Defense Sector Invests in Long-Term Talent adding to the Hiring Surge

Startland News reports that Piccadilly Cloud, based in the Kansas City area, recently secured a $9 million contract to support U.S. Navy submarine production. Their TEQ Connect platform will help match skilled tradespeople to roles that require more than just a resume. The software looks at traits like motivation and reliability to predict fit.

In regions like Shawnee and southern Overland Park, this kind of advanced hiring strategy could offer a boost. It’s another example of how staffing quality employees will require both human skill and smart technology.

Momentum Finds Its Direction

Each of these stories connects to one idea. Whether it’s the slow return of traditional manufacturing, the explosive growth in electric vehicle production, or the tailored recruitment for defense contracts, the need for skilled trades is growing more specific. It’s no longer just about having experience—it’s about knowing where the momentum is building.

That’s where the Kansas Hiring Surge becomes more than a number. In places like Lenexa, De Soto, and Overland Park, success often comes down to having the right information and the right access.

Getting Hired in Kansas City Will Take Strategy

Some sectors are pausing. Others are growing fast. That balance is what defines hiring today across eastern Kansas. Timing, location, and specialized staffing support can make the difference between getting stuck and getting hired. The hiring surge in Kansas is real, but not every opportunity makes it to a public job board. It’s often about finding the roles that match your skills and getting in before the line forms.

For people working in the trades or looking to break into them, now is the moment to pay attention. Skilled hands are in high demand—and the ones who stay ready will move first. Looking for your next job opportunity in the Kansas City area? Explore rewarding careers at NEXTAFF of Johnson County, Kansas. Find the perfect fit for your skills and aspirations. Learn More About Candidate Services today!