Smith County’s Rural Economy: Opportunities in Ag, Manufacturing, and More

When people think of Smith County, agriculture is often the first thing that comes to mind... and rightly so. Our farmers and ranchers are the backbone of this community. But the story of Smith County’s economy is much bigger.

It’s one of family businesses passed down through generations, manufacturing making waves, and professional services that keep agriculture and small business moving forward. From the shop floor to the law office, from Main Street storefronts to the wide-open fields, Smith County offers opportunity for every kind of career path.

Building Business and Family in Kensington

A slower pace of life, familiar faces, and the pull of home, that’s what brought Jared Hudson and his family back to Kensington.

With the help of the Smith County Workforce Recruitment Incentive Program, their move was smoother than expected. Jared, his wife, and their two sons quickly found jobs, and the entire family was welcomed back with open arms.

Today, Jared and his brother work side by side at Hudson Tire & Service, building a business they’re proud of in the town they’ve always called home. For the Hudsons, it’s not just about tires and oil changes, it’s about investing in a small town that invests right back. Their story is proof that opportunity in Smith County isn’t limited to the big city — it’s alive right here, where family and community come first.

Applequist Manufacturing: Building Big in Smith Center

While agriculture will always be central to Smith County, our economy is also shaped by forward-looking industries like manufacturing.

Applequist Manufacturing, Inc. was formed by Roy Applequist, former owner and president of Great Plains Mfg. Inc., and he chose Smith Center, Kansas as the home for this new venture. The company completed construction and renovation of a 138,000-square-foot facility, which is now in full operation.

Applequist Manufacturing is designed to efficiently produce a wide range of equipment for both the agricultural and construction industries. Current product lines include the innovative Falcon stripper header and the 40-foot TerrainGrade land plane.

Beyond the products, Applequist Manufacturing has committed to providing a great working environment for its staff and to investing in the idea that there’s no better place than rural Kansas to build a thriving young manufacturing company. Their story is a reminder that innovation and opportunity don’t just exist in metro areas, they’re alive and well in Smith County.

White-Collar Opportunities in Agriculture and Beyond

Smith County also boasts a variety of professional careers that keep our rural economy strong and diverse. These are the people and organizations providing financial services, legal expertise, and business support that allow agriculture and small businesses to thrive.

Allen & McDowell Law Firm – Kyle Allen and Shannon McDowell

Edward Jones – Morgan Bienhoff

First Wealth Management

Goheen & Slavik CPAs, LLC

Garen Kuhlmann, CPA

H&R Block

Guaranty Bank

Smith County Bank

The Peoples Bank

Farmers National Bank (Kensington)

From attorneys to CPAs to trusted bankers, these professionals ensure that families, farmers, and business owners have the resources and guidance they need to grow. They are an essential part of what makes Smith County not only a place to live, but a place to prosper.

The Future is Rural

The Hudson Brothers, Applequist Manufacturing, and the many white-collar professionals in Smith County show us that opportunity here takes many forms. From family-run service shops and cutting-edge manufacturing to law firms, accountants, and banks — our local economy is thriving because of the people who invest their time, talents, and futures here.

Smith County proves that rural America isn’t fading. It’s building, adapting, and thriving. And for those looking for a place to raise a family, grow a business, or build a career, there’s no better time to say yes to small-town opportunity.