On March 13, 2026, the Chamber hosted U.S. Congressman Joe Courtney for a Business Luncheon examining national priorities and their impact on eastern Connecticut’s economy, workforce, and infrastructure. Thank you to Co‑Presenting Sponsors Jeff Brining of Norwich Public Utilities and Loren Webber of Red, White and Bundled for their generous support.
Community & Infrastructure Updates
Norwich Public Utilities shared updates on major community reinvestments, including water and sewer main replacements, environmental safeguards, wastewater treatment upgrades, and long‑term electric system modernization focused on reliability and outage prevention.
These initiatives underscore NPU’s commitment to sustainability, resilience, and reliable service for residents and businesses.
Supporting Military Families
Red, White and Bundled highlighted its mission of supporting military families by providing essential “baby bundles” to newborns of active‑duty service members. Recently rebranded from the Susan M. Tillis Foundation, the organization has delivered thousands of bundles through partnerships with Fort Bragg and the Armed Services YMCA, with a growing footprint across established defense communities along the East Coast.
Congressman Joe Courtney: Key Discussion Topics
In remarks led by Congressman Joe Courtney, a senior member of the House Armed Services Committee’s Seapower and Projection Forces Subcommittee, discussion focused on current security challenges and their direct connection to eastern Connecticut’s economic vitality.
National Security & Support for Service Members
- Addressed evolving Middle East conflicts and the importance of supporting U.S. service members deployed abroad
- Emphasized the need for clear military strategy, accountability, and congressional oversight
Defense Industrial Base & Munitions
- Noted accelerated munitions output (155mm production) and sustained investment in submarine manufacturing critical to eastern Connecticut
Energy Policy & Reliability
- Discussed regional and national energy projects (i.e. Revolution Wind) and stressed the need to balance reliability, affordability, and job creation
Tariffs & Small‑Business Supply Chains
- Outlined cost pressures from tariffs on manufacturers and shipbuilding suppliers; urged continued legislative review to protect small businesses and local employers
Election Policy & Civic Participation
- Discussed national debates over voter registration standards and the SAVE Act passed by the House in April 2025
- Noted related court actions and legal developments involving proof‑of‑citizenship requirements
Department of Homeland Security Funding
- Reviewed the agreement that ended the brief partial government shutdown and created a short‑term DHS funding window
- Emphasized maintaining critical services while negotiating reforms and ensuring accountability
Workforce Pipelines & Manufacturing Growth
- Highlighted Connecticut’s successful workforce development model – most notably the EWIB‑led Manufacturing Pipeline Initiative, and ongoing WIOA support connecting residents to high‑quality careers
Thank You to Our Partners
Our Display Table participants who enhanced the event:
We’d also like to extend our sincere thanks to UCFS Healthcare, our Tabletop Sponsor.
Looking Ahead
The Chamber thanks Congressman Courtney and his team for engaging with our members and community partners on issues shaping eastern Connecticut’s future. Our Business Luncheons and Breakfasts foster constructive dialogue among policymakers, employers, and nonprofit leaders – strengthening collaboration and advancing a resilient regional economy and workforce – together.
We appreciate everyone who participated, and encourage members to stay connected through upcoming programs, advocacy updates, and opportunities to engage with leaders at the local, state, and federal levels.