Carl R. Ice College of Engineering names Garmin its 2026 Company of the Year

Kansas State University's Carl R. Ice College of Engineering is honoring Garmin as its 2026 Company of the Year in recognition of Garmin's outstanding commitment to engineering education, professional excellence and engagement with the college.

Garmin is a global technology company that creates products and solutions for the aviation, automotive, fitness, marine and outdoor markets. Founded in 1989 by engineers Gary Burrell and Min Kao, Garmin was built on a shared vision to bring the potential of emerging GPS technology to customers around the world.

Today, Garmin employs nearly 24,000 associates in 37 countries and maintains its operational headquarters in Olathe, Kansas.

"It is a privilege to recognize Garmin as our 2026 Company of the Year," said Ashfaq Khokhar, dean of the Carl R. Ice College of Engineering. "Garmin’s partnership with the college exemplifies the powerful impact when industry and higher education work together with a shared commitment to developing talent and advancing innovation. Through internships, full-time career opportunities and meaningful engagement with our students and faculty, Garmin helps connect engineering education with real-world challenges and creates pathways for our graduates to become the innovators and leaders of tomorrow.

"We deeply value this partnership and look forward to expanding its impact in the years ahead."

In addition to hiring K-State engineers, Garmin engages with the college as a participant in its E-LEAD course, which aims to provide students with experience solving real-world corporate problems while building essential leadership skills.

The company has also donated equipment to various K-State design teams and clubs and has been a strong corporate partner through a variety of college-based programs over the years.

"We are honored to receive this special recognition," said Laurie Minard, Garmin vice president of human resources. "K-State is an important source of engineering talent for Garmin, and we are grateful for the opportunity to engage with K-State students through internships, career development programs and full-time opportunities. We look forward to continuing our collaboration and supporting the next generation of innovators."

Garmin will be honored at the college's career fair reception at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 23, in the Engineering Hall atrium.