The Greater Topeka Chamber’s Military Relations Council 2025 InitiativesThe Greater Topeka Chamber’s Military Relations Council is convening for their 2025 initiatives this April.
The Greater Topeka Chamber’s Military Relations Council is convening for their 2025 initiatives this April. With ambitious priority areas in workforce and economic development, along with state policy analysis, this group of dedicated professionals is eager to cultivate a strong relationship for the military in the region.
Individuals who are actively serving or have served are welcome in the room, including businesses that support the defense ecosystem, veteran-owned businesses, and social organizations that contribute to greater appreciation and awareness of the military. Past efforts have focused on mutual awareness, support, and appreciation between the military and civilian business communities in the greater Shawnee County community. “We are thrilled to contribute to the national defense ecosystem,” stated Juliet Abdel, Chamber President. “Through a targeted focus on connecting key entities, we feel strongly that action will be taken that advances prosperity in Shawnee County.”
Looking ahead, the 190th Air Refueling Wing located at Forbes Field is one of six installations in Kansas. “Forbes Field is the headquarters of the Kansas National Guard and home to the Kansas Air National Guard’s 190th Air Refueling Wing. It occupies 215 acres on the south side of the Topeka Airport, located approximately five miles south of downtown Topeka. The mission of the 190th is to ‘Provide a professionally trained militia, ready to serve community, state, and nation.’ The 190th occupies seven administrative facilities, 16 industrial facilities, and two service facilities totaling approximately 523,100 square feet with 323 full-time personnel. Unit training drills conducted once a month result in a surge of up to a total of 1,152 personnel. The 190th provides Global Reach for the United States Air Force through in-flight refueling of fighters, bombers, and other aircraft using the KC-135 tanker.
“I am very proud of the Military Relations Council. Topeka is a military town, from the 190th, to the Army National Guard and reserve units, to the VA’s extensive operations, to the Coast Guard Pay Center, to our veteran’s services organizations, and our many neighbors who put on the uniform in the past and served us all so honorably,” stated Curtis Sneden, Director of Development, Metropolitan Topeka Airport Authority. The Topeka Chamber MRC is visibly engaging in priorities to grow impact, allow for economic opportunity, and community engagement. For more information on participating in the Military Relations Council or about the upcoming meetings for 2025, visit topekapartnership.com or email angelicabrown@topekapartnership.com.
