The Charleston region is significantly impacted by our nation’s military installations and service men and women. Home to Joint Base Charleston, the United States Coast Guard Sector Charleston, the Army Corps of Engineers, Department of Defense contractors, veterans and military retirees, the tri-counties see a $12.6 billion economic impact thanks to the over 78,000 jobs that are created in support of our nation’s defense.
Since 2001, the Charleston Metro Chamber has served as the lead regional organization focused on the retention of existing facilities and the expansion of facilities through active efforts in seeking to locate new missions to the region. Supporting the expansion and retention of military and Homeland Security missions in the tri-county area is critical to the overall wellbeing of our community and the success of our national defense.
The Chamber is continuously seeking opportunities to strengthen relationships between the region’s service members and their dependents, veterans, retirees and the business community.
Currently, the Chamber bridges the gaps between military and civilian life through events like the Impact Series: Change of Command, the Military Advisory Committee and networking events connecting transitioning service members with potential employers within the region. In addition, the annual D.C. Fly-In convenes local elected officials and business leaders with departments of the armed forces and South Carolina Congressional Delegation to advocate for the tri-counties.
In the upcoming year, the Chamber is excited to expand our work in this space. Veterans and retirees will be introduced to new opportunities to find valuable resources to aid with career transitions, develop connections and leadership skills through the Chamber’s leadership programs and improve their overall quality of life.
The Chamber’s Government Relations team collaborates with elected officials at the state and local levels to drive progress toward our Legislative Priorities, which include focusing on military retention and expansion. These priorities currently include legislation that directly impacts service members, their spouses and dependents.
Legislative Priority Topics include:
- Military Retention and Expansion
- Talent, Education and Workforce
- Criminal Justice Reform
- State Fiscal Health
- Economic Development
- Infrastructure
Military Affairs Staff