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A Kansas program that supports rural economic growth by preparing residents for remote work has received national recognition. Kansas State University is among eight land-grant universities offering the Remote Online Initiative, which recently earned the Excellence in Teamwork award from the National Association of Community Development Extension Professionals.

The initiative has been available in Kansas since January 2020, just weeks before the COVID-19 pandemic spurred widespread interest in remote work. The program offers month-long courses to help participants transition to remote jobs, improve productivity, and earn certification to demonstrate their skills to employers or clients.

Remote work has proven beneficial for rural communities, allowing residents to build rewarding careers while living outside urban areas. It also helps employers connect with talent beyond their immediate region and has been linked to increased productivity.

Kansas extension agents and local partners have supported the initiative through outreach and programming, including a free monthly Zoom series called Remote Work Wednesdays. As of mid-2025, 46 Kansans have completed the training.

More information is available at kansasremotework.com.