The Kansas Distribution Alliance has announced its Founding Five member companies. Launched in 2020, the Kansas Distribution Alliance is a network of business leaders dedicated to a thriving distribution industry that boosts local economies and provides good jobs and career growth opportunities for Kansans. These members are recognized as leaders in upholding and advancing professional standards for the distribution industry.

The five founding members of the Kansas Distribution Alliance are the following:

• GT Midwest (Industrial Supply & Manufacturing; Wichita, Kansas)
• Stanion Wholesale Electric Co. (Electrical Supply Distributor; Wichita, Kansas)
• C&B Equipment Inc. (Industrial Equipment Distribution & Service; Wichita, Kansas)
• Clock Medical Supply (Medical Distribution; Winfield, Kansas)
• Star Lumber & Supply Co. (Building Supply; Wichita, Kansas)

These industry leaders are essential to the support of the Keep Kansas Running Campaign, an initiative to increase the number of qualified candidates in distribution careers. Keep Kansas Running encourages traditional and non-traditional students to pursue distribution careers through programs advancing professional distribution.

The Distribution Alliance has partnered with Pratt Community College on its Modern Distribution Sales and Management (MDSM) program — the first distribution degree of its kind in Kansas. Prospective students and those wanting to further their careers gain hands-on experience and transferable skills needed for success in the distribution industry.

"The Keep Kansas Running Campaign helps students become highly sought-after candidates in an industry filled with opportunity and well-paying careers," said Jenny Egging, program coordinator of MDSM at Pratt Community College. "The support of these five companies is integral to the success of our students and we could not be more thankful for their involvement."

Businesses and students interested in learning more about the Distribution Alliance and MDSM program can visit keepkansasrunning.com.