This Week's Latest Tech News in Topeka, KS - Sunday April 6th 2025 Edition

This week marks a transformative period for Topeka, KS, as the city embraces technological innovation and infrastructure development. Kansas has officially designated telecommunications as critical infrastructure, signaling a commitment to digital advancement.

Washburn Institute of Technology is leading educational innovation with its planned expansion to North Topeka, including a new 90,000-square-foot manufacturing campus and modernized equipment upgrades.

The institution's nursing program launch in fall 2025 demonstrates its responsiveness to workforce needs. Public infrastructure is keeping pace, with the $239 million I-70 Polk-Quincy Viaduct project set to begin early 2025, enhancing transportation efficiency.

Tech initiatives include Stormont Vail Health's AI-driven healthcare technologies improving diagnostic accuracy, while TopekaNet's gigabit internet rollout continues to support business operations and remote work capabilities.

The Greater Topeka Partnership projects these developments will significantly boost the city's digital economy.

With multiple infrastructure projects underway and increasing enrollment in tech education programs, Topeka is positioning itself as a growing hub for technological advancement and economic growth in Kansas.

The groundbreaking of Link Innovation Labs on April 3rd, 2025, marks a transformative moment in Topeka's tech evolution.

This 17,000-square-foot facility, strategically located at Southeast 6th and Southeast Monroe streets, includes 7,500 square feet of lab space and a 2,500-square-foot networking area.

The hub's focus on ag-tech and animal health innovation positions Topeka as a key player in the region's animal health corridor, stretching from Manhattan to Columbia, Missouri.

Through GO Topeka's initiatives, the facility has already attracted significant interest, with the latest cohort including 16 animal health startups.

The innovation center's impact is evident in the numbers - Topeka's tech sector contributed $1.2 billion to the local economy in 2023, showing an 18% increase from the previous year.

Reflecting this growth, the tech sector now employs 9% of Kansas's workforce, with a projected 48% growth in AI jobs by 2027.

The hub features flexible spaces ranging from 650 to 850 square feet, allowing startups to scale as needed. Beyond infrastructure, the facility offers mentorship programs, funding access through partnerships with venture capital firms, and regular networking events.

• Mentorship Programs: The facility provides guidance through experienced professionals.
• Funding Access: Partnerships with venture capital firms enhance funding possibilities.
• Networking Events: Regular events encourage collaboration and idea exchange.

The innovation center serves as both an incubator and accelerator, providing crucial support systems for emerging businesses while fostering collaboration within the tech community.

The project's strategic location, less than a mile from the Kansas State Capitol and near the Evergy Plaza, creates a dynamic ecosystem for innovation and entrepreneurship.

A public-facing cafe and working showcase lab make technology accessible to the community, while regular events and partnerships with organizations like Plug and Play ensure continuous knowledge exchange and growth opportunities.

In a groundbreaking advancement for healthcare in Topeka, Stormont Vail Health's Clinical Research Center is revolutionizing patient care through innovative technologies and research initiatives.

The center, recently awarded the 2024 Extraordinary Care Award, has participated in hundreds of clinical trials and partnered with thousands of patients, contributing to numerous FDA-approved medications.

An exciting new dimension has emerged through K-State's partnership with Stormont Vail, which focuses on enhancing multidisciplinary teams in contemporary research, particularly in AI applications.

The collaboration aims to improve research, education, and patient care through advanced technologies.

The impact of these innovations extends beyond traditional healthcare boundaries.

Stormont Vail's recent Behavioral Health Symposium demonstrated how technology integration in healthcare is addressing mental health challenges, particularly in children and adolescents.

The symposium showcased innovative treatment modalities, including art and music therapy, which have resulted in increased school attendance and decreased disciplinary reports.

Additionally, the hospital's research initiatives span multiple specialties, including endocrinology, gastroenterology, neurology, and pediatrics, providing patients access to cutting-edge treatments often years before wider availability.

This technological transformation is supported by significant institutional partnerships, including Stormont Vail's membership in the Mayo Clinic Care Network, which provides access to advanced medical expertise and resources.

The integration of these technologies and partnerships has created an environment where quality of life takes center stage, driving innovation that brings hope and lasting change to the community while positioning Topeka as a leader in healthcare advancement.

Washburn University's tech education initiatives are expanding in spring 2025, offering a diverse range of programs including C# programming fundamentals and specialized medical coding courses.

These programs are part of the university's commitment to building practical tech skills, with flexible learning options including both self-guided and instructor-moderated formats.

The spring schedule features multiple start dates between April and July, accommodating various student schedules and learning preferences. A highlight of the season is the Washburn Tech Spring Career Fair, scheduled for March 3-4, connecting students with nearly 70 area employers.

• Diverse curriculum offerings: The comprehensive curriculum spans from programming basics to specialized industry applications, with courses priced at $175 for 24-hour modules.
• Access to facilities: Students have access to modern facilities and industry-standard tools, while professional instructors with extensive field experience guide them through real-world applications.
• Hands-on approach: The programs emphasize hands-on practice, combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills development.

This approach has proven particularly effective, with participants reporting increased confidence in pursuing tech careers.

The initiative demonstrates Washburn's role in fostering Topeka's growing tech ecosystem, providing accessible pathways for both students and professionals to advance their technical expertise.

The university's strategic focus on emerging technologies and industry-relevant skills continues to strengthen its position as a key driver of technical education in the region.

In April 2025, Kansas embarks on a transformative digital journey with a $451 million statewide broadband initiative, with TopekaNet's gigabit internet rollout playing a crucial role in this expansion.

This project addresses the needs of approximately 150,000 Kansans currently lacking high-speed internet access, including over 75,000 residents and businesses in Topeka.

The initiative aligns with AT&T's nationwide goal of connecting 30 million people to fiber internet by 2025, marking a significant advancement in the region's digital infrastructure.

Particularly exciting is the introduction of symmetric gigabit speeds launching in April 2025, offering equal upload and download capabilities of up to 1Gbps - perfect for content creators, gamers, and remote workers.

The impact on Topeka's community is already evident.

Recent surveys show 89% of businesses anticipate productivity gains, while schools report a 23% increase in online education program adoption since 2023. The rollout addresses eight counties where over half the population lacks adequate internet service, making Topeka a hub for digital innovation.

Recent speed comparisons showcase dramatic improvements:

Year	Average Internet Speed (Mbps)
2023	100
2025	1000

This digital transformation extends beyond speed metrics.

TopekaNet's initiative, part of Kansas's comprehensive Broadband Equity Access and Deployment plan, includes workforce development programs and targets underserved communities.

With federal funding requiring a 25% match, the project demonstrates a serious commitment to closing the digital divide. This positions Topeka at the forefront of Kansas's digital revolution, creating a foundation for future innovation and economic growth.

The tech scene in Topeka is heating up this spring with multiple high-impact conferences converging. The Kansas Digital Government Summit kicks off the season, tackling crucial topics like cybersecurity, digital transformation, and AI implementation.

Building on this momentum, the Kansas Cyber Summit follows in late April, offering deep dives into the state's cybersecurity landscape and resilience strategies.

The collaboration extends further with the FBI and KU Cybersecurity Conference, bringing together industry experts, academics, and law enforcement for a comprehensive two-day program.

The events feature practical workshops, networking sessions, and keynote speeches from industry leaders, including MLB's Senior VP of Technology Neil Boland and Romanian Intelligence Service's Anton Rog.

These conferences collectively showcase Topeka's emerging role as a tech hub, with registration fees ranging from $100-175 for full access.

The gatherings are expected to draw over 2,000 professionals, creating valuable networking opportunities and fostering partnerships between public and private sectors.

• The exhibition spaces will showcase the latest in cybersecurity tools, AI applications, and digital transformation solutions.
• Local tech companies and startups will have dedicated spaces to demonstrate their innovations, while government agencies will share insights into their digital modernization efforts.
• The economic impact is projected to exceed $5 million, reinforcing Topeka's position as a growing tech center.

For students and early-career professionals, special workshops and mentoring sessions are available, making these events accessible entry points into the tech industry.

Topeka's startup ecosystem has transformed into a dynamic hub of innovation, anchored by the new Business Concierge Office at 715 S. Kansas Ave.

This center serves as ground zero for entrepreneurs, offering hands-on support and expert guidance for both startups and established businesses. The hub's impact is already evident through initiatives like Omni Circle's partnership with Cyphr, which is revolutionizing how entrepreneurs access capital and resources.

Through this collaboration, the hub addresses critical challenges, including the current 20% small business loan acceptance rate in Topeka. The ecosystem is further strengthened by Network Kansas and Shawnee StartUps, which provide essential funding and mentorship opportunities.

In 2023, Topeka's tech sector contributed $1.2 billion to the local economy, marking an 18% increase from the previous year. The hub's comprehensive approach includes partnerships with K-State 105, AltCap, GO Topeka, and the Kansas Department of Commerce, creating a robust support network for entrepreneurs.

The space is staffed by Washburn University business students, bringing fresh perspectives to startup development. With regular operating hours from 8 AM to 3 PM on weekdays, the hub has become a catalyst for innovation, connecting entrepreneurs with resources they need to launch and scale their ventures.

Looking ahead, the tech sector is projected to see a 48% growth in AI jobs by 2027, positioning Topeka as an emerging leader in technological innovation and entrepreneurial success.

In Topeka's evolving healthcare landscape, AI-powered remote patient monitoring is revolutionizing medical care delivery.

Stormont Vail Health's partnership with MedTech Innovations demonstrates how AI systems are transforming patient care through real-time analysis and early diagnosis capabilities.

The integration of AI-assisted monitoring solutions has led to a 30% reduction in hospital readmissions and 40% improvement in patient satisfaction scores.

These systems analyze vital health data points continuously, enabling healthcare providers to detect potential complications before they become severe. Local healthcare facilities are implementing smart patient room technology that combines AI with ambient sensors to monitor patient wellbeing around the clock.

The technology handles protocol adherence monitoring, fall prevention, and automated workflow management, allowing healthcare workers to focus more on direct patient care.

Recent data shows that facilities using these AI technologies have witnessed a 37% reduction in patient record errors and a 25% decrease in operational costs.

Healthcare providers report that AI-driven systems are particularly effective in three key areas:

1. Continuous patient condition assessment. These systems provide instant alerts, improving response time and patient outcomes.
2. Predictive analytics for early intervention. This allows healthcare providers to proactively address potential health issues before they escalate.
3. Resource optimization through task automation. AI technologies streamline operations, freeing up providers to spend more time on patient care.

Dr. Elizabeth Martinez from Stormont Vail notes,

"AI in healthcare is not just a tool; it's a partner in delivering quality care. Its capacity to improve patient outcomes is unparalleled."

As these systems continue to evolve, they're establishing Topeka as a model for AI integration in healthcare delivery, showcasing the technology's potential to enhance patient care across the nation.

Washburn Institute of Technology is transforming tech education in Topeka with major expansions planned for 2025. The institution received a historic $3 million donation and announced plans for a new manufacturing campus in North Topeka.

The expansion includes a 90,000-square-foot facility that will house advanced manufacturing programs and modern technical training spaces. Current enrollment has surged, with many programs maintaining waiting lists due to high demand.

The new Manufacturing Institute will expand existing programs while launching new pathways to support local manufacturing partners and address workforce needs.

The institution's commitment to practical education is evident in its upcoming Spring Career Fair, where nearly 70 area companies will connect with students across various technical programs.

The two-day format allows employers more time with each student, enhancing job placement opportunities. A new applied science degree in nursing will launch in fall 2025, addressing critical healthcare workforce shortages.

The institution's programs are specifically designed to allow students to work while studying, creating a practical balance between education and employment. Looking ahead, Washburn Tech continues to focus on modernizing equipment and expanding facilities to meet evolving industry demands, positioning itself as a key driver of technical education and workforce development in Northeast Kansas.

In 2025, Kansas is witnessing a transformative broadband evolution, with a comprehensive $451 million action plan reshaping connectivity across the state.

In Topeka, this initiative aligns with TopekaNet's expansion project, bringing multi-gigabit speeds to previously underserved areas. Cox Communications has emerged as a key player, delivering fiber-powered internet speeds up to 2 Gbps to Topeka residents.

The expansion addresses critical needs, with approximately 150,000 Kansans previously lacking high-speed internet access. Recent data shows that 87,000 locations were unserved and 57,000 underserved, but the new infrastructure is rapidly closing these gaps.

• Business Impact: The initiative has already shown measurable impact, with local businesses reporting increased productivity and improved digital capabilities.
• Healthcare Advances: Healthcare providers are implementing advanced telemedicine services, enhancing patient care and service reach.
• Educational Expansion: Educational institutions are expanding their online learning platforms, providing more accessible education to students.
• Support for Remote Work: The deployment of fiber networks is particularly significant for remote workers and digital entrepreneurs, who can now access reliable high-speed connections essential for cloud-based applications and video conferencing.

This digital transformation extends beyond basic connectivity, supporting IoT integration and smart city initiatives that enhance public services and quality of life.

The project's success is evidenced by increased business registrations and growing interest from tech companies looking to establish operations in Topeka. By prioritizing digital infrastructure, Topeka is positioning itself as a competitive hub for innovation and economic growth in the digital age.

The tech scene in Topeka is buzzing with back-to-back conferences shaping the future of innovation in Kansas. The Kansas Digital Government Summit kicks off the season in August, focusing on cybersecurity, digital transformation, and AI implementation.

This sets the stage for the highly anticipated Topeka Tech Conference 2025, where over 1,500 attendees will explore cutting-edge developments at the Downtown Event Center this April.

The conference's timing is perfect, as local business training sessions on AI implementation have already begun preparing small businesses for technological advancement.

The Kansas Cyber Summit in April will bring additional depth to the security discussions, with expert-led sessions on strengthening cyber resilience and IT governance.

The conference schedule includes:

• Over 50 speakers: featuring tech leaders like Patricia Jackson from MedTech Innovations and Linda Garcia from TopekaNet.
• Insights on AI integration: sustainable tech, and IoT applications are among the key topics.

Beyond the presentations, attendees can dive into hands-on workshops, join pitch competitions for startup funding, and network at the career fair.

With 70% of local businesses seeing this as a game-changer for their growth strategies, the conference is more than just talks - it's about building real connections and making things happen.

As Thomas Miller from Topeka Tech Organization puts it:

"This event is reshaping our city's tech landscape, proving that Topeka is seriously stepping up its game in the tech world."

Topeka's tech landscape is experiencing unprecedented growth, with over 150 startups and $78 million in investments from industry leaders like PTMW and Moore Digital.

The city's tech professionals now command salaries ranging from $80,000 to $120,000, supported by a robust 15% annual market growth. The recent expansion of major companies is creating nearly 250 new tech jobs, with PTMW's $47.2 million investment leading the charge.

The Plug and Play accelerator program is fostering innovation, projecting a 48% growth in AI jobs by 2027.

The new ASTRA Innovation Center, a 60,000-square-foot facility, serves as the cornerstone of downtown's emerging innovation district, offering wet labs, flexible workspaces, and specialized research facilities.

Adding to this momentum, Washburn Rural High School's new Innovation Center is preparing the next generation of tech talent through 18 career-focused pathway programs.

With the tech sector contributing $1.2 billion to the local economy and employing 9% of Kansas's workforce, Topeka is solidifying its position as a Midwest tech hub.

The integration of cutting-edge technologies across various sectors, from agriculture to healthcare, creates a dynamic environment for both aspiring developers and seasoned professionals, marking a transformative era in the city's tech evolution.