Veteran and Military Affairs Committee

Mission

Dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment that enhances the connectivity of veterans and active military personnel with the business community while driving economic growth.

Purpose

The Scottsdale Area Chamber of Commerce Veteran and Military Affairs Committee (VMAC) focuses on programs and initiatives encompassing workforce development, education, and community engagement. We are committed to providing resources, advocacy, and support to individuals and businesses that employ, support and positively impact the lives of our military and veteran community. Through collaboration with local businesses, educational institutions, and community organizations we strive to create opportunities that promote the professional growth, entrepreneurship, and employment of veterans and active military personnel.

UPCOMING VMAC EVENTS

Join us for the VETERAN COMMUNITY SERIES, a six-part community series designed to engage, empower, and connect veterans and their families with the greater Scottsdale community. Hosted in partnership with the City of Scottsdale’s Veterans Advisory Commission, VMAC, Scottsdale Leadership, and Scottsdale for Veterans, these workshops offer meaningful opportunities to share experiences, gain resources, and build lasting connections.

Monthly Workshops

5:30 – 7:00 PM

Community Design Studio, 7506 E Indian School Rd, Scottsdale, AZ

Free with registration | Light refreshments provided

Upcoming Workshops:

Civics 101 – Oct. 8 | Learn how our city works, from council and staff to citizen commissions.
Storytelling – Nov. 5 | Explore the power of storytelling for veterans and the community.
Wellbeing – Dec. 3 | Gain practical tools for personal wellness and lifelong growth.
Leadership – Feb. 4 | Discover tools for effective, servant-focused leadership.
Volunteerism – Mar. 4 | Reconnect with the value of giving back and making an impact.
Connection – Apr. 1 | Meet veteran service organizations and learn about available resources.

Together, we can create new memories, foster stronger connections, and honor the service of our veterans.

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Join us for an inspiring WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP program featuring four extraordinary women who have built successful careers in business after serving our nation in the military.

Each has transformed her service into a platform for advocacy, championing veterans and strengthening their communities.

Discover how these leaders navigated the transition from military to civilian life, the lessons they carried forward, and the ways they continue to empower and advocate for fellow veterans while excelling in the business world.

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RECENT VMAC EVENTS

On Tuesday, June 24th, veterans, veteran-owned businesses, and community supporters gathered at Rudy’s BBQ & Country Store for the Veteran and Military Affairs Coalition (VMAC) Networking Mixer. Guests enjoyed great food, drinks, and meaningful connections in a relaxed, welcoming setting. Proudly sponsored by HonorHealth, the event was a great success in fostering camaraderie and creating new opportunities for collaboration within the veteran community.

The Veteran and Military Affairs Coalition, in partnership with the ASU Pat Tillman Veterans Center, recently hosted Proving Grounds: Unlocking the Competitive Edge of Veteran Talent on May 27th at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Scottsdale Resort. This impactful event brought together professionals and business leaders to explore the unique value veterans bring to the workforce, including leadership, adaptability, and a mission-driven mindset.

Featured speakers Shawn Banzhaf and Michelle Loposky from the Pat Tillman Veterans Center delivered insights on military culture, strategies for bridging cultural gaps in the workplace, and best practices for empowering veteran employees. Attendees left knowing how to create inclusive and effective teams by leveraging veteran talent.

A Night of Connection & Camaraderie at the March Veteran Networking Mixer!

The Veteran and Military Affairs Committee's March Veteran Networking Mixer at Amber Creek Inn was an incredible evening filled with meaningful connections, support, and collaboration. Veterans, business leaders, and community allies came together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and forge lasting relationships.

With the generous sponsorship of Arouet Capital and the support of HonorHealth, the event provided a welcoming and productive space for veteran entrepreneurs, professionals, and supporters to expand their networks. Conversations flowed effortlessly, from business opportunities to shared stories of service, highlighting the strength of Scottsdale’s veteran community.

Attendees left inspired, with new contacts and valuable insights to help them grow personally and professionally. If you missed this one, be sure to join us at the next VMAC event—because together, we thrive!

The VMAC Packages From Home Packing Party (December 3rd), hosted and sponsored by Credit Union West with additional sponsorship from VIP Mortgage, was an inspiring evening of giving back. Together, participants packed 50 care packages filled with essential food, hygiene, and entertainment items to support Active Duty U.S. Military members, including K9 teams, as well as homeless, transitioning, and at-risk veterans.

Packages From Home presented certificates of appreciation to Credit Union West, VIP Mortgage, and the Veteran and Military Affairs Committee (VMAC) in recognition of their generous contributions and continued support.

The event wasn’t just about packing boxes—it was a meaningful team-building experience that created connections, shared stories, and spread holiday cheer. While the event concluded on a high note, the effort to support our troops continues.

VMAC NEWS

The Veteran and Military Affairs Committee is actively seeking venues to host our quarterly mixers dedicated to supporting veterans. These gatherings provide a valuable opportunity for veterans and community members to connect, share experiences, and foster a supportive network. If you have a space and are interested in collaborating with us to honor and support our veterans, we'd love to hear from you. Join us in making a difference and strengthening our community's commitment to those who have served.

Contact Stephanie Miller at: smiller@scottsdalerchamber.com or call 480-355-2704