Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Executive Forum
Thursday, October 29, 2026
9:00AM - 2:00PM
Greater Richmond Convention Center

The Virginia Chamber Foundation is pleased to present the 2026 Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Executive Forum. 

Virginia is at the center of the nation’s defense mission, and competition for the talent, investment, and innovation that will shape the next decade is intensifying.

The 2026 Virginia Veterans and Military Affairs Executive Forum will bring together leaders from Virginia’s business, defense, military, and public sectors to explore how the Commonwealth can strengthen its position as a premier destination for defense investment and military-connected talent.

Panel Discussions

Leading the Nation: Virginia’s Commitment to Military Families and Defense

Hear from Virginia legislative leaders on the Commonwealth’s commitment to military families, defense, and the policies that support Virginia’s continued competitiveness.

Winning the Military Talent Race: Virginia’s Defense Advantage

Defense and aerospace leaders discuss why they chose Virginia, what they need to grow, and why military-connected talent is critical to their future workforce.

Building Virginia’s Future Defense Workforce

Interactive Employer Work Sessions

Employers will identify critical talent gaps, emerging skill needs, and practical solutions to strengthen Virginia’s defense workforce.

Defense Industrial Base & Advanced Manufacturing

Workforce needs across Virginia’s defense manufacturing and industrial base.

Cyber, AI & Digital Technologies

Emerging talent needs in cybersecurity, AI, data, and digital technologies.

Energy & Infrastructure

Workforce needs supporting Virginia’s energy, infrastructure, defense, and economic growth.

Employment Equity & Inclusion Strategies

Employment needs of individuals experiencing housing instability, justice system involvement, childcare challenges, Guard/Reservist commitments, and other factors affecting workforce participation.

V3 Awards Luncheon

Hosted by the Virginia Department of Veterans Services

Celebrate Virginia employers leading the way in recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans through the Virginia Values Veterans (V3) Program.

Sponsor Opportunities

Want your logo in front of Virginia’s military and business leaders? Sponsorship offers prime brand visibility before, during, and after the event.

Contact Mary-Michael Wachur at m.wachur@vachamber.com to review available sponsorship levels.

Blueprint Virginia 2035

In December 2025, the Virginia Chamber of Commerce presented Governor-elect Spanberger with Blueprint Virginia 2035, an action plan to foster long-term economic growth, global competitiveness, and a premier environment for military families and defense investment.

A critical focus of the Blueprint is statewide military workforce development, prioritizing the attraction, retention, and transition of service members, veterans, and military spouses to ensure economic stability and defense-aligned expansion across all regions of the Commonwealth.
Register Now

Accommodations

Date: Thursday, October 29th

Time: 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Location: Greater Richmond Convention Center, Grand Ballrooms, Level 2 (Directly across from the Richmond Marriott Hotel) 403 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219

GPS/Directions to Parking Deck: 351 North 3rd Street, Richmond, VA 23219

Dress: Business Attire

Registration and Check-In: The registration desk is located on Level 2 in the foyer outside the Grand Ballrooms. Your name badge serves as your ticket for the day and includes your assigned luncheon seating.

Seating: The morning program is open seating unless you are a speaker or panelist. Check your name badge at check-in for your luncheon table assignment.

Parking: Parking in the GRCC Parking Deck is $8.00 per vehicle. The deck connects directly to the Convention Center via the 3rd level. Additional parking is available near the intersection of 5th Street and Marshall Street. Please note there is one entrance to the parking deck, which can become congested as guests arrive. Allow extra time to park and reach registration.