Alabama Chambers Hosts Chamber Day at the Capitol, Honors Lieutenant Governor Will Ainsworth with Inaugural Leadership in Government Award
MONTGOMERY, AL. — The Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama (Alabama Chambers) brought together chamber professionals, volunteer leaders, and community partners from chambers of commerce across the state for the 2nd Annual Chamber Day at the Capitol presented by Alabama Power, a statewide advocacy and engagement event focused on strengthening relationships between Alabama’s business community, chambers of commerce and state policymakers.
The day opened with a welcome from Laura Strickland, IOM, AACE, Chair of Alabama Chambers and President & CEO of the Sylacauga Chamber of Commerce. The program featured a series of conversations highlighting Alabama’s legislative priorities, economic outlook, and emerging policy issues impacting communities and employers statewide.
A Rural Road Map Initiative discussion followed with Senate President Pro Tempore Garlan Gudger and Speaker of the House Nathaniel Ledbetter, joined by R.B. Walker of Alabama Power. Attendees also heard an update on the current legislative session with House Minority Leader Anthony Daniels, joined by Tim Howe of the Business Council of Alabama.
“A View from Both Sides” brought together Kyle South, IOM, President & CEO of the Chamber of Commerce of West Alabama, along with Senator Wes Kitchens, IOM, and Representative Chad Robertson, offering their unique perspectives as gentlemen that have served in the legislature as well as led a local chamber.
Additional sessions included a look at the latest polling and emerging issues with Jason Isbell of Regions Bank and Todd Stacy of Alabama Daily News and a Commerce Department update from Deputy Secretary Erika MacKay. Capitol visit with State Finance Director Bill Poole. Participants also departed for visits to the Alabama State House, providing an opportunity to engage directly with legislators on issues impacting local businesses and communities.
During lunch, Alabama Chambers proudly presented the inaugural Alabama Chambers Leadership in Government Award to Will Ainsworth, recognizing his leadership and commitment to Alabama’s economic future.
Throughout his tenure, Lt. Governor Ainsworth has distinguished himself as a champion for economic growth, workforce development, and the entrepreneurial spirit that defines our state. He has consistently focused on how we can make Alabama stronger, not just in theory, but in the real, practical ways that affect business owners, workers, families, and the communities they call home. His continued partnership with Alabama’s chambers of commerce exemplifies the collaborative leadership this award was created to honor.
Following lunch participants departed for visits to the Alabama State House, providing an opportunity to engage directly with legislators on issues impacting local businesses and communities. The day concluded with a visit to the State Capitol for an enlightening presentation from State Finance Director Bill Poole.
“Chamber Day at the Capitol reflects the strength of Alabama’s chamber network and the value of bringing our voices together,” said Paige Hutto, IOM, president & CEO of Alabama Chambers. “Our association represents nearly 100 chambers of commerce across the state, led by more than 1,600 staff and volunteer leaders representing over 40,000 businesses and organizations. This day provided an opportunity to engage directly with policymakers and reinforce the role chambers play as trusted advocates for their communities.”
“This event showcased what is possible when chambers, business leaders, and elected officials come together with a shared focus on Alabama’s future,” Strickland added. “The conversations throughout the day reinforced the importance of collaboration, thoughtful leadership, and continued engagement on behalf of the businesses and communities we serve.”
Founded in 1937 as the Alabama Association of Commercial Organizations, the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama remains committed to building stronger chambers and advancing chambers of commerce as Alabama’s premier local business advocates. Through its partnership with the Business Council of Alabama, the organizations collectively represent the interests of more than one million working Alabamians each day.
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