The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce wrapped up its 2025 DC Fly-In this week with its largest delegation to date, with a productive series of meetings and discussions aimed at advancing the region’s legislative priorities. Led by local city and county officials, business and community leaders, the delegation made its case on crucial state and federal issues that impact Albany’s economy, workforce, infrastructure, and cultural development.

On Tuesday, the group arrived at the nation’s capital, where the Chamber was welcomed by U.S. Chamber of Commerce representatives, including Tom Wickham, VP of Government Affairs, and Jaimie Francis, VP of Policy and Programs, who provided a comprehensive Federal Legislative Update. This session was followed by a community leadership discussion, highlighting Albany’s key initiatives and ongoing efforts to strengthen local and regional ties.

Later in the evening, the Chamber hosted its Albany Federal Reception, where Albany's leadership, Congressional representatives and USMC officials, gathered to discuss the region's needs and future development. The reception set the stage for Wednesday’s Capitol Hill meetings, where the delegation met with Congressmembers Sanford Bishop and Austin Scott to advocate for funding and support for critical local programs.

Smith Wilson, Chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors, reflected on the significance of these meetings, stating, "The 2025 DC Fly-In was an invaluable opportunity for us to meet face-to-face with key decision-makers who can help shape Albany’s future. By working closely with our federal and state representatives, we’ve set the stage for greater investment in the businesses and educational institutions that are central to our community’s prosperity." 

Matt Reed, Interim President & CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, emphasized the importance of these direct interactions, saying, "The strength of our community lies in the partnerships we continue to nurture and cultivate, both locally and in Washington, D.C. This trip is always a powerful reminder of the impact that close collaboration with our elected officials can have on moving our community and region forward."

In addition to meetings with legislators, the Chamber delegation attended a series of sessions at "Modern Day Marine," a conference and expo focused on logistics and defense, followed by meetings with USMC Leadership. These events provided valuable insights into the role of Albany-based Marine Corps Logistics Base in supporting the military’s logistics operations, further underscoring the Chamber’s commitment to supporting defense communities as a military community of excellence.

Later in the day, the delegation had the opportunity to meet with U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff and with the team from Senator Raphael Warnock's office, where discussions focused on aligning Albany’s priorities with federal initiatives that support regional prosperity. Both meetings were invaluable in strengthening the delegation's advocacy and ensuring that Albany's voice is heard in Washington, D.C.

Bridges Sinyard, Chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Government Affairs Committee, noted, "This was an exceptional opportunity for us to not only advance Albany’s priorities but also deepen relationships with our federal partners. We’re excited to bring these conversations back to Albany and continue the work of turning these conversations into tangible progress."

The delegation is already focused on following up on the momentum from these discussions and continuing to build partnerships that will drive Albany’s growth. "The connections we made here are just the beginning," said Smith Wilson. "We look forward to seeing these efforts come to fruition and to continuing our work for the betterment of our community."