Advanced manufacturing company with global reach doubles workforce, celebrates 30 years in business and reaches major delivery milestone
Wichita, Kan. – Airxcel, a local advanced manufacturing company announced its plans to expand capacity and grow its workforce to more than 700 total employees at its Wichita facility. Founded in 1991, Airxcel is a leading designer, manufacturer and distributor of branded products for the global recreation vehicle (RV) and specialty HVAC markets. The company sources globally and builds locally, operating out of its manufacturing facility located north of downtown Wichita at 3050 N. St. Francis St.
“With 18 manufacturing locations in six states and Italy, we are excited to expand and grow our workforce here in Wichita,” said Jeff Rutherford, Airxcel CEO. “Producing world-class products and providing our employees with competitive wages and benefits is something we take great pride in. We look forward to our future growth as a company and the Kansas economy as a whole.”
According to Rutherford, the COVID-19 pandemic helped reinforce the positive attributes of outdoor camping and recreation, leading to increased RV sales and demand for Airxcel products. This increased market demand has led to exponential job growth at the Wichita headquarters. To meet this demand, the company has filled 265 new jobs since it began hiring in 2020. Additional plans announced today include the creation of 100 new jobs and more than $4 million in capital investment into its existing facility. Combined, these new jobs double the Airxcel workforce at the Wichita facility. Airxcel is hiring immediately for the 100 new jobs at www.airxcel.com.
“Airxcel’s plans to double their workforce to over 700 employees and bring over $4 million in capital investment to our state will go a long way to support the Wichita area and our entire economy,” said Governor Laura Kelly. “Securing competitive expansions like Airxcel is key to our long-term economic growth, and I look forward to our continued partnership to bring more jobs and investment to our state.”
“Increased demand has led to a boom in this industry, and Airxcel is in the perfect position to capitalize on this moment,” Lieutenant Governor and Commerce Secretary David Toland said. “This is a win for Wichita manufacturing, and the many new jobs created will further strengthen the region as an international manufacturing and production leader.”
The company will maximize its existing space by adding an additional shift and assembly lines to meet the growing market demands.
“Airxcel is another example of a business that has found success growing in Wichita,” said Wichita Mayor Brandon Whipple. “We are so thankful to have smart, innovative companies like Airxcel further diversifying our economy and increasing employment opportunities in Wichita.”
With a family of 16 market-leading brands like MaxxAir and Coleman-Mach, Airxcel recently celebrated its 30th anniversary earlier this year. Additionally, the company reached a monumental milestone with the delivery of its eight millionth RV air conditioner.
“Airxcel is a great example of a company that adjusted during the COVID-19 pandemic. Their company exemplifies our region’s manufacturing strength and the value that strength brings to our community and state,” said Sedgwick County Chairman Pete Meitzner.
Brandon Findley, Director of Economic Development at the Greater Wichita Partnership, said, “Advanced manufacturing is a key focus of the Regional Growth Plan. We were pleased to work with Airxcel and community partners to grow jobs and investment, and expand our manufacturing ecosystem.”
The Regional Growth Plan is an economic strategy to grow the Greater Wichita region’s economy, attract new businesses and expand existing industries. It is implemented by the collective efforts of community partners within the ten-county region and is led by the Greater Wichita Partnership.
