Over the past several months, I’ve talked a lot about vision. Where we’re going, what kind of Chamber we’re building, and how we can better serve businesses across Addison, Carrollton, and Farmers Branch.

Today, I want to talk about action.

Because vision only matters if it translates into focus, momentum, and measurable value for our members.

Focused on What Matters Most

The business environment is changing quickly. Our members are navigating workforce challenges, economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and increased competition for talent and customers. In response, the Chamber has been intentionally sharpening its focus.

That means aligning our time, resources, and energy around what matters most to our business community. Workforce development, leadership pipelines, advocacy, and meaningful connections are not side initiatives. They are central to how we deliver value and support long-term regional success.

This focus shows up in how we prioritize programs, how we tell our story, and how we make decisions about where to invest.

A New Name for a United Region

Last month, we officially introduced our new name and brand: Metrocrest Area Chamber.

This change is about much more than a logo or a tagline. It reflects who we are today and where we are headed as a truly regional Chamber, unified across city lines and focused on collaboration, growth, and opportunity.

Our new identity better represents:

• The strength of Addison, Carrollton, and Farmers Branch working together
• The diversity of businesses and industries we serve
• Our commitment to relevance, innovation, and long-term growth

It is a clear signal that the Chamber is evolving to meet the needs of today’s business community and the challenges ahead.

Investing in People Through the Metrocrest Chamber Foundation

Another major step forward is the launch of the Metrocrest Chamber Foundation, a new 501(c)(3) organization closely connected to the Chamber.

The Foundation expands our ability to invest directly in education, workforce development, leadership, and economic opportunity across the Metrocrest region. These investments are not abstract. They directly support employers by strengthening talent pipelines, preparing future leaders, and building a more resilient regional economy.

Through the Foundation, we are supporting initiatives such as:

• Scholarships for local high school seniors
• Leadership Metrocrest
• The National Civics Bee
• EPIC (Employer Provided Innovation Challenge), where students solve real business challenges
• Upcoming initiatives such as internships, bookcamps, and more

This work helps ensure our region remains competitive today while preparing for what comes next.

Turning Strategy into Results

Behind the scenes, we are also strengthening how we operate. We are using better tools, clearer priorities, and more disciplined execution so we can spend less time on noise and more time delivering value.

Technology, including AI, is helping us work smarter, but the real story is not the tools. It is the outcomes:

• Stronger, more relevant programs
• Clearer communication
• More intentional engagement
• A Chamber that is responsive, accountable, and focused on results

An Invitation to Engage

If you are a current member, thank you for believing in this Chamber and investing in the future of our region. I invite you to lean in. Attend events, share your voice, mentor future leaders, and help shape what comes next.

If you are not yet a member, this is an exciting time to get involved. The Metrocrest Area Chamber is growing, evolving, and focused on helping businesses succeed. Whether you are looking for connections, visibility, advocacy, talent solutions, or a way to give back through the Foundation, there is a place for you here.

This is a new era for Metrocrest, and we are just getting started.

Let’s move forward together.