LEAD Hampton Roads

Today, the LEAD757 Class of 2026 explored the profound impact the Department of Defense has on Hampton Roads our economy, workforce, and community. From air operations at NAS Oceana to naval capabilities at Naval Station Norfolk, the day provided an incredible behind the scenes look at the leaders, missions, and partnerships that make our region a cornerstone of national defense.

We began the day at NAS Oceana with a welcome briefing and Q&A led by John C. Lauterbach Jr., Planning Liaison of NAS Oceana followed by a tour of the Landing Signal Officer (LSO) School.

After traveling to Naval Station Norfolk, we heard from Rick Dwyer, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Military and Federal Facilities Alliance (HRMFFA), who provided valuable insight into the military’s role throughout Hampton Roads and its significance to our regional economy.

The afternoon included a windshield tour of Naval Station Norfolk led by Captain Ray Glenn, Executive Officer of Naval Station Norfolk, and a remarkable opportunity to tour the USS San Antonio (LPD-17), gaining a greater appreciation for the capabilities and readiness of our Navy.

This session carried special meaning. It reinforced not only the importance of our military installations but also the sacrifices made by service members, their families, and the civilian workforce who support our nation’s defense every day.

A sincere thank you to all of today’s speakers and hosts for sharing your expertise and leadership with our class.

Hampton Roads Chamber

From aviation finance to haunted Hampton Roads traditions, Bruce Tingle brings a unique perspective to the LEAD757 Class of 2026!

As Director of Finance at the Norfolk International Airport, Bruce helps support one of the region’s most important gateways while bringing a thoughtful, hands-on approach to leadership and problem solving.

Bruce’s passion for Hampton Roads shines both professionally and personally. When asked what local event he never misses, he shared his family tradition of attending the Norfolk Haunted Temple at the Norfolk Masonic Temple every Halloween. From the unforgettable presence of two clowns “Twitch and Jerk” greeting guests outside to the psychological twists inside, it’s an event that keeps them coming back year after year and maybe one day even as scare actors themselves!

As for the best view in Hampton Roads? Bruce says it’s from the top of Garage A at Norfolk International Airport, where you can watch flights arrive and depart with the Virginia Beach skyline in the distance.

And if Bruce wasn’t leading in finance? He’d be running his own garage. He loves the hands-on process of solving mechanical problems, getting his hands dirty, and seeing the immediate results of hard work a passion that perfectly reflects his problem-solving mindset and dedication to service.

We’re excited to have Bruce as part of this year’s class and can’t wait to see the impact he’ll continue to make across our region!

Hampton Roads Chamber

Meet another incredible member of the LEAD757 Class of 2026 Bryan Fox, President & CEO of Lumin Strategies!

Bryan and his Norfolk-native wife first met at Duke, later growing their family with a son in Washington, DC and a daughter in the Research Triangle before recently making Ocean View home. A former congressional staffer and Durham Chamber professional, Bryan’s connection to the Hampton Roads Chamber began during our 2019 Leadership Exchange.

Today, Bryan and his family are excited to grow Lumin Strategies right here in 757, bringing their expertise in PR and lobbying for economic development organizations and local governments to our region.

When he’s not traveling for work or spending time with family, you’ll likely find Bryan enjoying the beach or out on the golf course.

We’re excited to have Bryan as part of the Class of 2026 and can’t wait to see the impact he continues to make across Hampton Roads!

Hampton Roads Chamber

A deeper look at what keeps our region moving. 🚧

The LEAD757 Class of 2026 recently took part in Infrastructure Day, an immersive experience focused on understanding the systems, projects, and decisions that shape Hampton Roads and its future.
The day began bright and early as the class boarded the bus in Virginia Beach, setting the tone for a hands-on learning experience.

One of the highlights of the day was a firsthand look at the expansion of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel, led by Michael T. Crist, P.E., Deputy Executive Director of Infrastructure at the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel. Hearing directly from project leadership gave the class a deeper appreciation for the scale, complexity, and long-term vision required to execute transformative infrastructure projects.

As the group returned for afternoon sessions, the conversation expanded to include some of the region’s most impactful initiatives. Participants heard from Michelle Martin, HRBT Expansion Project Manager with the Virginia Department of Transportation, who shared insights into one of the largest infrastructure projects in the region.

Additional perspectives were provided by Bob Crum, Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Planning District Commission, who discussed regional infrastructure priorities, and Doug Smith, President & CEO of the Hampton Roads Alliance, who highlighted the Hampton Roads “Playbook” and its role in driving economic growth.

The conversation continued with Amy Jordan, Director of Business Development at Hampton Roads Transit, who shared how transit development plays a critical role in connectivity, workforce access, and the region’s future.

Throughout the day, one theme remained clear: infrastructure is more than roads and bridges it’s the foundation for opportunity, innovation, and regional success.

The day concluded with time to reflect and connect, reinforcing that leadership in this space requires not only understanding, but engagement and action.

Hampton Roads Chamber