Military
Since the 1940s, the Tampa Bay business community, led by the Tampa Bay Chamber, has enjoyed a close working relationship with the MacDill Air Force Base – a vital part of our nation's defense and an important training location for those who safeguard America. We understand the importance of promoting and supporting our brave men and women who serve our country and call our community home.
Awards & Recognitions
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2021 – Tampa receives Military Spouse Impact Award for Community of the Year. |
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2019 – Tampa is now recognized as a Military Spouse Economic Empowerment Zone (MSEEZ). |
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2018 – Tampa Bay named a Great American Defense Community |
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2018 – U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation – Hiring Our Heroes Chamber of Valor |
Military Appreciation Interview Series
The purpose of the Chamber’s Military Advisory Committee is to support military family readiness and quality of life initiatives that ensure Tampa Bay is postured for defense growth. Through the Chamber’s Vision 2026 Plan, the Military Advisory Committee will advocate for legislative priorities that enhance quality of life for military families, connect the Tampa Bay business community with military affiliated talent to address workforce needs and diversify the Chamber’s membership by engaging military affiliated members. The Military Advisory Committee is part of the Tampa Bay Chamber Foundation.
2025 Chair
Crystal Lewis – HNTB
2025 Vice-Chair Chair
Brian Mays – Patriot Mark Realty
Staff Contact
Katie Lopez, IOM – Vice President, Advocacy
Related News
Military Appreciation
A grand salute to Tampa Bay’s armed forces, this event is the Chamber’s opportunity to recognize the contributions of MacDill Air Force Base and the US Coast Guard to our community. Annually, more than 400 guests join in honoring those who serve our country at home and abroad.
Industry Connect
The Industry Connect series focuses on providing transitioning service members, who are at least nine months from their end of service date, with an opportunity to learn more about different companies in the Tampa Bay market prior to leaving active duty. These events are not focused on immediate employment needs but instead helps service members better understand corporate roles and opportunities as they explore and develop their civilian career path.
Operation Partnership
Operation Partnership is a series that helps transitioning service members and military spouses develop professional connections within the Tampa Bay business community. Participants are not required to commit to all three events however they are encouraged to participate in as many as possible to maximize their networking opportunities. During the 2022 program, over 120 business leaders and service members participated.
The overall goal of Operation Partnership is not to provide employment placement for service members and spouses; instead, the program focuses on preparing them for entering the Tampa Bay business community and assisting them in building their professional network.
Recruit & Retain Military Talent
This is an opportunity for employers to learn more about recruiting and retaining military affiliated talent. Topics covered include programs designed to connect employers with military affiliated talent, funding sources to upskill and train veterans in the workplace, and resources to support companies that employ members of the Guard and Reserve.
Transition Tampa Bay
Transition Tampa Bay is a professional development series, led by Tampa Bay Chamber members, for service members who are preparing to transition from active duty to the Tampa Bay business community within the next year. Building on the Transition Assistance Program curriculum, Operation Partnership: Transition Tampa Bay focuses on career exploration, building & leveraging professional relationships, understanding corporate culture, and preparing for the hiring process.
Tampa Bay @ Sunset
Operation Partnership: Tampa Bay @ Sunset is held in October and is a modification of a traditional Chamber after hours event. Participants from the first two days are encouraged to attend this casual networking event to further expand their professional network.