I intended to share this message before the end of the year, but as we step into a new one, it still feels important to pause and reflect on the progress we have made together and the momentum building across the Metrocrest region.

A Year of Purposeful Progress

Last year marked an important milestone for our organization. On December 1, we officially completed our rebrand to the Metrocrest Area Chamber, a change that reflects our commitment to regional collaboration, relevance, and impact across Addison, Carrollton, and Farmers Branch. This transition represents both where we are today and where we are headed as a stronger, more connected business community.

Looking back on the year, I am proud of the way this Chamber has operated and grown. Progress was not driven by flash or headlines, but by consistent execution, thoughtful decision-making, and a clear focus on serving our members well. Much of the most important work happens quietly, through dependable programs, a committed staff, and the credibility that is earned when an organization follows through on its commitments.

Strong Governance and Steady Leadership

I am deeply appreciative of a Board of Directors that takes its governance role seriously. Their willingness to ask hard questions, stay focused on long-term priorities, and make decisions with the best interests of the entire membership in mind is essential to the health of the Chamber.

Strong governance requires discipline, trust, and a shared understanding of purpose, and that foundation served our organization well throughout the year.

Connecting Leaders and Strengthening Community

Throughout the year, we brought people together in meaningful ways. Leadership Metrocrest Class 35 launched and is now underway, continuing our commitment to developing informed, engaged leaders.

Signature events including the Business Expo, Annual Awards Luncheon, Economic Development Summit, Mayors Forum, and our Women in Business Leadership Conference created opportunities for connection, visibility, and dialogue. We were especially proud to partner with the U.S. India Chamber of Commerce on the Business Expo, strengthening both regional and international business relationships.

Workforce, Talent, and the Future Pipeline

Workforce and talent development remained a priority. We officially launched the EPIC initiative, establishing the framework for employer-driven student teams in partnership with local school districts. While the boot camp portion is still in planning, the foundation is in place.

In addition, Dallas College identified NextGen Industry Sectors focused on Technology, Business and Finance, and Manufacturing, and we are proud to serve as a public partner in all three. Through this work, we are actively engaged with Dallas College and sector sub-groups on shared priorities that include workforce development, policy and advocacy, and employer needs.

One additional milestone last year was the launch of the Metrocrest Chamber Foundation, created to further advance workforce development and leadership training across our region. The Foundation will serve as a complementary arm to the Chamber, allowing us to deepen our impact through partnerships and long-term initiatives focused on talent development, education, and opportunity.

Its primary focus will be workforce development and leadership training, with planned collaboration alongside organizations such as the CFBISD Educational Foundation and Metrocrest Services to support students, emerging leaders, and the broader community.

Strengthening Our Manufacturing Community

We also strengthened engagement within our manufacturing community. The Metrocrest Manufacturers and Distributors Alliance launched last year, bringing manufacturers together to identify shared challenges.

That work led to the formation of a focused working group that has already begun meeting to move solutions forward.

Advocacy and the Voice of Business

Advocacy remained central to our mission. We hosted a Legislative Send-Off, participated in our first-ever legislative trip, and held a legislative update with Senator Tan Parker.

Throughout the legislative session, we provided weekly legislative updates to keep members informed on issues impacting business and the regional economy. We also hosted a school board candidate forum and surveyed the Farmers Branch candidates in their special election to help keep our members informed and engaged locally.

Momentum That Matters

Our membership growth tells an important story. We welcomed 148 new businesses and organizations into the Chamber, reflecting confidence in the value of connection, leadership, and advocacy happening across Metrocrest.

None of this progress would be possible without strong partnerships. We are grateful for our continued collaboration with the Town of Addison, the cities of Carrollton and Farmers Branch, Dallas College, local ISDs, the U.S. India Chamber of Commerce, the Korean-American Chamber of Commerce, and many regional partners.

Thank you for your engagement and trust. The work accomplished over the past year has laid a strong foundation, and we look forward to building on that momentum together in the year ahead.

Warm regards,

Michael Gallops
President & CEO
Metrocrest Area Chamber