For nearly 30 years, Rural Health Education and Services has hosted healthcare career fairs that not only connect job seekers with employers but also help shape the future of Kansas’ rural health workforce. 

Each year, these events bring resident physicians, medical students and other healthcare professionals together with organizations serving rural and underserved communities across the state. Known as KCO career fairs, the gatherings emphasize face-to-face interaction, giving both candidates and employers the chance to build relationships that often extend well beyond the event itself. 

“We’ve seen candidates make meaningful connections at KCO and land a job soon after the event,” said Natalie Olmsted, manager of the Kansas Recruitment and Retention Center, based at KU Medical Center. “Those initial conversations can lead to an invitation to visit the organization, meet staff, see the community and eventually, the perfect job offer. With organizations from across the state attending, there are a lot of opportunities in the healthcare workforce.” 

The fairs are supported each year by sponsors whose contributions make the in-person events possible. Organizers say that support is key to maintaining an environment where meaningful conversations, and long-term matches, can happen. Exhibitor registration for this year’s events opens June 1. 

In addition to traditional networking opportunities, this year’s platinum sponsors will have the option to participate at an enhanced level by supporting the annual panel discussion, “Life as a Provider in Rural Kansas,” which highlights the experiences of practicing clinicians. 

KCO career fairs will take place this fall in Wichita and Salina. The Wichita event, considered the flagship, typically draws more than 200 students and professionals, making it the largest health care career fair in Kansas. This year, it will be held at the Hyatt Regency Wichita. 

As rural communities continue to face workforce shortages, organizers say the fairs remain a vital tool for connecting healthcare providers with the places that need them most — while helping candidates find a fit for future roles.