Stellar Forge: Powering the Future of Technology in Western Kansas
Stellar Forge is helping position Ford County at the forefront of the high-tech infrastructure movement. Established in Dodge City in November 2022, the data center and co-location company provides critical hosting and infrastructure services to clients around the world. With more than 20 full-time employees and plans for continued expansion, Stellar Forge is a shining example of innovation and growth happening right here in western Kansas.
During a recent Business Retention & Expansion (BR&E) visit, Mike Cantu, Benjamin Orcutt, and Luis Ibarra shared how the company’s focus on reliability, communication, and efficiency has helped them build a loyal, global customer base, 97% of whom are repeat clients. Their customers depend on Stellar Forge for uninterrupted uptime, scalable hosting environments, and access to new technologies.
The company chose Dodge City for its abundant access to renewable energy and competitive business climate. “Our customers increasingly have sustainability goals, and the availability of renewable power in this region allows us to meet those needs,” the team explained. They noted that western Kansas offers the perfect combination of affordable energy, available land, and community support, without the intense competition found in major metro areas.
Stellar Forge has quickly become a strong local employer and community partner. The team is currently hiring for hosting sales associates, marketing, and IT support positions, with a goal to add 25–35 employees at a new Spearville project. They are collaborating with local partners for a new data center and $15 million substation project.
Locally, Stellar Forge works with several area contractors such as Building Solutions, Davis Electric, Horton Land and Services, ServiceMaster, Victory Electric, and United Wireless. Their continued growth is creating opportunities for electricians, technicians, and construction trades throughout Ford County.
Recruiting skilled talent remains one of their biggest challenges. The company expressed interest in partnering with Dodge City Community College (DCCC) and local high schools to develop IT, computer repair, and sales training programs. “A local pipeline of skilled workers would make a big difference,” they said. The company also supports efforts to establish an apprenticeship program and host sales-training seminars to help build the next generation of technology professionals.
Stellar Forge continues to expand as demand for artificial intelligence and high-performance computing grows globally. The company is exploring additional repair services and advanced electronics work, and its leadership remains committed to keeping that growth in western Kansas.
As part of the Dev. Corp.’s BR&E program, ongoing engagement with companies like Stellar Forge helps strengthen the local economy and ensure businesses have the tools and workforce they need to thrive. Their success story highlights how technology, renewable energy, and rural development can come together to create opportunity right here in Ford County.
Learn more about Stellar Forge at www.stellarforge.com.
