As we prepare to open our EV battery manufacturing facility in De Soto, Kansas, in 2025, we have been committed to showing up for our new neighbors. While teams are hard at work with the construction, we are enjoying getting to know the community where our employees come from. Each day is a new opportunity to explore and connect with the people and organizations that make the Kansas City metro and the state of Kansas great places to live and work.
In September, Panasonic Energy Community Affairs Manager Julie Sailors spoke at the Ottawa Chamber of Commerce in neighboring Franklin County on Panasonic’s goals and openings for hiring. Just 40 miles southwest of the new De Soto facility, Ottawa is within the nearby area where Panasonic expects to do much of our hiring. This was an amazing opportunity to showcase Panasonic’s commitment to the new community. We discussed our hiring strategy to support the growth of the EV industry and bring skilled jobs to Kansas. Additionally, we highlighted the new opportunities for high school and college students alike to acquire essential manufacturing skills for the future of electric vehicles.
Julie also joined De Soto Mayor Rick Walker and representatives from KCADC and Turner-Yates, our general contractor, in presenting to the 2024 Leadership Kansas class. This initiative, backed by the Kansas Chamber and Education Foundation, takes established and emerging leaders on a six-month journey across the state for immersive training sessions on business leadership, education, public policy, government, and beyond. Julie hosted a lively Q&A with the speakers highlighting how construction of Panasonic Energy’s De Soto facility and forthcoming EV battery production is creating impact and opportunity for Kansans and neighboring states. Participants discussed housing and workforce development, partnerships with educational institutions, infrastructure improvements, and the positive ripple effects of new businesses emerging in the region.
September also marked Panasonic’s Month of Service. In Kansas, Panasonic Energy employees supported community nonprofit organizations and volunteering their time, totaling: