WICHITA, Kan. (AP) — Airbus Americas plans to relocate its engineering center now in downtown Wichita to Wichita State University’s Innovation Campus.

The move announced Tuesday comes as the university augments its basic research role with one geared to applied research and development that has a more immediate impact.

Airbus will bring its 400 Wichita employees to a new building on campus that is slated for completion in January 2017.

Airbus Americas President Barry Eccleston says relocating to the Wichita State University campus gives the company access to the next generation of engineers. He says innovation is the culture and mantra of his company.

Wichita State University President John Bardo says the partnership with Airbus increases the quality of education for students and increases the impact of the university.