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 Coalition (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.
RECENT VMAC EVENTS
The Adopt-A-Veteran initiative concluded 2025 with a powerful reminder of what community collaboration can achieve. Through the combined efforts of Scottsdale For Veterans, the Veteran & Military Affairs Coalition (VMAC), and the City of Scottsdale Veteran Advisory Commission, this year’s program successfully adopted and delivered aid packages to more than 25 local veterans in need.
Aid packages included Thanksgiving meals with comfort items and Christmas gifts thoughtfully selected from veterans’ wish lists providing not only essential support, but also dignity, joy, and meaningful connection. The program also extended assistance to veterans participating in the City’s Adopt-A-Senior program and those receiving veteran housing support. Because of the generosity, dedication, and compassion of partners and supporters, Scottsdale’s veterans were reminded that their community stands firmly beside them—during the holidays and beyond.
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 Coalition'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! 
VMAC NEWS
The Veteran and Military Affairs Coalition 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
VMAC Leadership Team
For more information or questions about the Veteran and Military Affairs Coalition,
contact Stephanie Miller at smiller@scottsdalechamber.com