D.C. Fly-In is Wichita Chamber Advocacy in Action

Members of the Wichita Regional Chamber of Commerce had the opportunity to see first-hand how federal advocacy can benefit the business community in South Central Kansas at the D.C. Fly-in this past week.

“The Wichita Chamber serves as a crucial advocate for the economic well-being of its members and the broader business community,” said John Rolfe, President and CEO of the Wichita Chamber. “Through effective federal advocacy, the Chamber plays a pivotal role in shaping policies, regulations and initiatives that can significantly impact the growth and prosperity of businesses in Wichita and the surrounding region.”

This year’s annual fly-in was co-hosted by the Wichita Chamber, Kansas Chamber and Heartland Black Chamber. More than 70 attendees, all members of one or more of the three Chambers, attended the three-day event in Washington D.C.

The event brings together Kansas business leaders to meet with Kansas lawmakers and national policy experts to learn about the latest federal issues that could impact business across the state.

Chambers members were able to meet directly with the entire Kansas federal delegation, including Sen. Jerry Moran, Sen. Roger Marshall and Rep. Ron Estes. Group discussions were held with the Kansas Global Trade Services, National Association of Workforce Boards, Hogan Lovells and the National Association of Manufactures. The final day included expert panels on advocacy, technology and regulations, as well as an inside look at D.C. politics with Wolfe Street Partners and South & Hill Strategies.

“This is your Wichita Chamber’s advocacy efforts in action,” said Joy Eakins, Wichita Chamber 2023 Board Chair and President of Cornerstone Data. “We pride ourselves in our ability to get things done at the local, state and federal level. Working with the government to foster a business-friendly environment is what we do.”     

The trip also included a private evening tour of the U.S. Capitol with Sen. Moran and Rep. Estes and late-night networking on the Speaker’s Balcony. Other private tours included the National Archives, Abraham Lincoln’s Cottage and the Pentagon with Col. Nate Vogel, who before moving to the Pentagon, was the Commander of the 22^nd Air Refueling Wing at McConnell Air Force Base.

“As the Chamber continues to champion the interests of its members, the regional business community remains a powerful force in driving growth, innovation and prosperity in the heart of America,” Rolfe said. “We understand that a strong local economy depends on effective federal advocacy. By engaging with policymakers at the federal level, the Chamber can influence policies and decisions that have a profound impact on businesses in the region.”