On the Hill for Nevada: Capturing Leadership at the 2025 Washington, D.C. Fly-In

This September, I joined more than 300 business, government, nonprofit, and education leaders for the Vegas Chamber’s Washington, D.C. Fly-In, one of the largest state delegations in the nation and a signature event for Nevada’s voice in federal advocacy.

For five days, Nevada’s leaders met face-to-face with members of Congress, federal agencies, and national organizations to discuss issues shaping our state’s economic future, from workforce innovation and infrastructure to civic engagement and national security. Hosted by the Vegas Chamber and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, this year’s Fly-In once again proved why Nevada’s delegation stands out for its unity, diversity, and purpose.

Inside the Meetings that Shape Nevada’s Future

Delegates met with Nevada’s entire congressional team, including Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen, and Representatives Mark Amodei, Susie Lee, Steven Horsford, and Dina Titus.
One of the most talked-about sessions explored how major sports venues like Allegiant Stadium can help strengthen civic participation, showing how spaces built for entertainment can also build civic connection and voter engagement.

Chamber President and CEO Mary Beth Sewald also sat down with Danielle Casey, the new President & CEO of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance, for an insightful fireside chat on economic growth, innovation, and regional collaboration.

Throughout the Fly-In, conversations circled back to one core theme: Nevada’s strength lies in its unity, public and private leaders working together to attract new industries, expand opportunity, and ensure economic resilience for years to come.

Federal Policy, Innovation, and the Power of Partnership

Panels on federal policy, the economy, and workforce innovation featured voices from across the state, including Steve Hill (LVVCA), Daren Griffin (Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority), and Betsy Fretwell (LVGEA).
The discussions emphasized a shared commitment to securing federal resources and breaking down barriers to business growth, with agencies and private sector leaders aligning on workforce development, clean energy, and tourism.

The spirit of collaboration carried through to every event, from early-morning panels to evening receptions overlooking the D.C. skyline. Every conversation, handshake, and shared idea added another layer to Nevada’s growing influence in Washington.

National Security and Nevada’s Strategic Role

A special session with the National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) offered insight into Nevada’s global importance in nuclear stewardship, innovation, and clean energy. The presentation by Charles Moran underscored how deeply Nevada contributes to national defense and scientific advancement, a reminder that our state’s leadership extends well beyond business and tourism.

At the Heart of Business Advocacy

At the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters, Mary Beth Sewald highlighted the significance of bringing hundreds of Nevada leaders together in Washington. Her remarks reflected the Chamber’s mission to support policy that empowers small businesses and fosters long-term economic growth.

The Fly-In also introduced creative new touches, such as Engagement Notebooks to capture key insights and a Spouses Program designed to make the experience more inclusive. One of the most memorable moments was the River Cruise Reception, which brought together delegates, policymakers, and partners for an evening of reflection and connection under the D.C. skyline.

A Shared Vision for Nevada’s Future

As the photographer documenting this experience, I witnessed firsthand the conversations and camaraderie that define Nevada’s leadership.
From capturing candid exchanges in congressional hallways to portraits of business and civic leaders standing shoulder-to-shoulder in the nation’s capital, each image tells the story of a state united by purpose, determined to lead, to listen, and to make an impact far beyond our borders.

The Fly-In is a statement of identity, that Nevada’s leaders show up, speak up, and work together for a better future.

In Reflection

For me, documenting the D.C. Fly-In was about witnessing the energy of connection, where business meets purpose, and leadership meets legacy.
To be surrounded by so many people devoted to advancing Nevada’s economy, education, and civic life was both inspiring and grounding.

Nevada’s story continues to evolve, and being part of it, camera in hand, is an honor.