Our state has the third largest military presence in the country. Local business leaders, politicians and military personnel gathered at the Kiwanis Recreation Center for a leadership breakfast.
A $23 billion impact on North Carolina's economy depends on defense contracts. On Tuesday morning, 85 vendors will have static displays set up at FTCC beginning at 10a.m.
U.S. Senator Kay Hagan serves as a co-host of the 12th annual Defense and Economic Development Trade Show at Fayetteville Technical Community College.
The Defense Trade Show provides extensive networking opportunities and government procurement workshops for prospective and current federal contractors. The event aims to build relationships among representatives of the congressional delegation, Department of Defense, other federal agencies and numerous defense-contracting firms, including both large and small North Carolina businesses.
"The key is to make sure all of our state’s varied interests are on the same page and working together to grow North Carolina’s defense economy," said Sen. Hagan. "Today’s trade show is a perfect opportunity to bring everyone together and secure the lasting partnerships we need between North Carolina businesses and the military."
"So don’t leave Fayetteville without making all the connections you can. I know that together we will ensure that people leave this trade show with one thing in mind: BUY NORTH CAROLINA," said Sen. Hagan to a roar of applause.
Sen. Richard Burr said of the breaking news on embassies and consulates overseas in the past 24 hours: "Thank you for your continued support of the United States military. The world is not a safe place and continues to be a challenge."
U.S. Rep. Renee Ellmers was on hand for the breakfast and applauded Sen. Hagan in her closing remarks at the breakfast. Though Ellmers will run for reelection next year, she is passing up an opportunity to challenge Sen. Hagan for the Senate seat. Ellmers has held the seat for North Carolina's 2nd congressional district since 2011.
Fayetteville based Veteran owned business K2 Solutions featured their canine security and detection presentation on the lawn, showcasing just one platform of their capabilities. The crowd was amazed at the dogs being commanded by hand signals, verbal commands and electronic signals to aid in security incidents.
Concurrent government procurement trainings and teaming opportunity sessions occurred throughout the day.
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