The state of Kansas is home to several major Air Force bases, each playing a significant role in the country's defense and military operations. One of the most notable Air Force bases in Kansas is Schriever Air Force Base, although it's actually located in Colorado, the other major one is McConnell Air Force Base, which is situated near Wichita, Kansas. McConnell Air Force Base is a key installation for the Air Force's refueling and airlift capabilities, and it has a substantial impact on the local economy and community. For individuals looking to find local jobs and housing near McConnell Air Force Base, there are several options and resources available.
McConnell Air Force Base Overview
McConnell Air Force Base is located about 10 miles southeast of Wichita, Kansas, and it is home to the 22nd Air Refueling Wing, which operates the KC-46 Pegasus and KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft. The base has a population of around 3,000 active-duty personnel, as well as thousands of civilian employees and contractors. The base’s proximity to Wichita makes it an attractive location for military personnel and their families, with a wide range of amenities and services available in the surrounding area.
Local Jobs Near McConnell Air Force Base
There are numerous job opportunities available near McConnell Air Force Base, both on and off the installation. On-base jobs include positions with the Department of Defense, as well as with contractors and vendors who provide services to the base. Some of the most in-demand jobs on base include:
- Aerospace engineers and technicians
- Cybersecurity specialists
- Logistics and supply chain managers
- Healthcare professionals
- IT and network administrators
Off-base jobs are also plentiful, with major industries in the Wichita area including aviation, healthcare, and education. Some of the top employers in the area include:
- Boeing
- Spirit AeroSystems
- Wichita State University
- Via Christi Health
- Cessna Aircraft Company
| Job Title | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Aerospace Engineer | $115,000 |
| Cybersecurity Specialist | $100,000 |
| Logistics Manager | $80,000 |
| Healthcare Professional | $70,000 |
| IT Administrator | $60,000 |
Local Housing Near McConnell Air Force Base
For those looking to live near McConnell Air Force Base, there are a variety of housing options available, both on and off the installation. On-base housing is available for eligible military personnel and their families, with a range of amenities and services, including:
- Single-family homes and apartments
- Community centers and parks
- Youth programs and childcare services
- Commissary and exchange shopping
Off-base housing options are also plentiful, with a range of neighborhoods and communities to choose from. Some popular areas for military families include:
- Derby, Kansas
- Andover, Kansas
- Maize, Kansas
- Wichita, Kansas
| Neighborhood | Median Home Price |
|---|---|
| Derby, KS | $180,000 |
| Andover, KS | $200,000 |
| Maize, KS | $220,000 |
| Wichita, KS | $150,000 |
Education and Healthcare Near McConnell Air Force Base
In addition to job and housing opportunities, there are also excellent education and healthcare options available near McConnell Air Force Base. The base is served by the Derby Public Schools district, which offers a range of educational programs and services for military families. There are also several higher education institutions in the area, including:
- Wichita State University
- Friends University
- Newman University
For healthcare, the base is home to the McConnell Air Force Base Clinic, which provides medical services to active-duty personnel and their families. There are also several civilian hospitals and medical centers in the area, including:
- Wesley Medical Center
- Via Christi Hospital
- Kansas Medical Center
What are the most in-demand jobs near McConnell Air Force Base?
+The most in-demand jobs near McConnell Air Force Base include aerospace engineers and technicians, cybersecurity specialists, logistics and supply chain managers, healthcare professionals, and IT and network administrators.
What are the benefits of living on-base at McConnell Air Force Base?
+Living on-base at McConnell Air Force Base offers a range of benefits, including access to community centers and parks, youth programs and childcare services, commissary and exchange shopping, and a sense of community and camaraderie with fellow military families.
What are the best neighborhoods for military families near McConnell Air Force Base?
+Some of the best neighborhoods for military families near McConnell Air Force Base include Derby, Andover, Maize, and Wichita. These areas offer a range of housing options, excellent schools, and access to amenities and services.
