LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The 47th Contracting Squadron at Laughlin AFB hosted over 70 people from across 40 local and small businesses for their second annual Small Business Industry Day Wednesday, May 21, 2025.
The event focused on connecting with resident contractors who support Laughlin’s mission to reduce procurement lead time.
“Thank you for taking this opportunity to join Laughlin,” said Col. Robert Moore, 47th Mission Group Support commander. “We are a part of your community, and we want to give you all this opportunity to help us modernize and introduce you to the DoD process where you can better your business.”
Last year’s inaugural Small Business Industry Day saw over 25 local businesses attend, showcasing an immense increase in participants with this year’s gathering.
“We would much rather use the local community and businesses to make this place better, and by you being here this morning, that is showing the growing trend we started with this event, and we need to continue it,” said Moore.
Attendees learned about the opportunities for small businesses, how businesses work with the government, and showcased construction and service projects for Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026.
“The intent of today’s event is to provide you with the tools, guidance, and connections to get you on your way to becoming an invaluable partner to Laughlin, the U.S. Air Force, and our Nation,” said Maj. Matthew Thorne, 47th Contracting Squadron commander. “The foundation Laughlin’s mission provides for the U.S. Air Force is woven together by the partnership of our local businesses.”
The 47th Contracting Squadron supervises all money used by Laughlin for services, commodities and construction contracts. They serve as designated representatives of the government, possessing exclusive authority to execute contracts or agreements that obligate the appropriated funds.
Businesses interested in being considered for future Industry Days at Laughlin AFB, should contact Mr. Jesus Perez, Director of Business Operations for Laughlin AFB at (830) 298-5641.