Regional Chamber and Electric Boat Announce Strategic Partnership to Advance Talent Attraction and Retention

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut (Chamber) and General Dynamics Electric Boat (Electric Boat) are pleased to announce a strategic partnership to advance a new regional workforce attraction and relocation initiative designed to support Eastern Connecticut’s growing talent needs and showcase the region as a premier place to live, work, and build a career.

At the center of this partnership is the expansion and modernization of the Chamber’s longstanding Community Concierge Program—now simply coined the “Relocation Toolkit.” This comprehensive, digital-first resource highlights Eastern Connecticut’s exceptional quality of life, professional and educational opportunities, housing options, arts and cultural amenities, and pathways for community connection. Designed with major employers in mind, the Relocation Toolkit will strengthen recruitment, relocation, and long-term retention efforts—beginning with Electric Boat as its principal funding partner and foundational collaborator.

Why This Initiative Matters

As the submarine capital of the world, Eastern Connecticut is experiencing unprecedented workforce growth driven by national defense priorities. With Electric Boat projecting approximately 8,000 new hires in 2026, the region must compete nationally to attract skilled professionals and ensure that new employees and their families can envision a fulfilling future here.

This initiative recognizes that recruitment extends far beyond the job offer. Retention depends on modern, place-based strategies that highlight the vibrancy, opportunity, and long-term potential of the communities where people live, work, and raise families. By leveraging established regional networks, cultural institutions, and community resources, the Relocation Toolkit serves as a compelling, unified answer to the question prospective talent most often asks: “Why work here, when you could work anywhere?”

How the Partnership Works

Under this partnership, the Chamber is leading strategic oversight, visual asset solicitation and coordination, and phased implementation, working closely with Electric Boat to ensure all development aligns with internal procedures, workforce priorities, and all applicable defense contracting.

As part of the current development phase, the Chamber is soliciting professional video production services for a suite of visual assets, including long-form, short-form, and social-ready content, designed to reflect the modern experience of living and working in Eastern Connecticut.

Content shoots are anticipated for late spring through early summer 2026, with final visual assets and a curated regional directory of key services and community resources also launching in 2026. 

A Regional Model for Connecticut

“Electric Boat has been a dedicated partner to the Chamber for many years, and together we are taking a forward-looking approach to ensure Eastern Connecticut remains competitive and positioned for long-term growth,” said Megan Gilbert, Chamber President. “By building cohesive resources that align employer needs, community assets, and regional strategy, the Relocation Toolkit will serve diverse employers and set a new benchmark for collaboration, with a focus on enduring impact.”

“Supporting workforce growth requires intentional investment in the broader ecosystem that surrounds employers—housing, services, connectivity, and quality of life,” said Tony Sheridan, CEO of the Chamber. “This initiative reflects a commitment to strengthening the region holistically so that businesses and communities are prepared to grow together.”

“At the scale we are expanding, our responsibility extends beyond delivering submarines and hiring engineers, welders, and skilled tradesmen and women—it includes helping ensure the people who join our workforce can establish meaningful, fulfilling lives in Eastern Connecticut while also supporting our national security. When Chamber leadership brought this opportunity forward, the timing aligned naturally with initiatives already underway internally. Partnering on this effort made sense given the Chamber’s reach, credibility, and ability to connect employers with the broader community, and we’re grateful to see this collaboration come to fruition,” expressed Shawn Coyne, Electric Boat’s Director of Public Relations & Community Engagement.

Employers and organizations interested in partnering on or contributing to the Relocation Toolkit are encouraged to connect with the Chamber to learn more.

 About the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern CT:

The Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut is one of the state’s oldest metro chambers, serving businesses for more than a century while advancing a vibrant, sustainable regional economy. Through thoughtful advocacy, strategic partnerships, and innovative programming, the Chamber connects business and community leaders and provides meaningful opportunities for connection, education, and engagement across Eastern Connecticut. Home to the Regional Innovation Center, the Chamber champions entrepreneurship, supports small businesses, elevates local industries, and drives regional economic development; learn more at ChamberECT.com.

 About General Dynamics Electric Boat:

General Dynamics Electric Boat designs, builds, repairs and modernizes nuclear submarines for the U.S. Navy. Headquartered in Groton, Connecticut, it employs more than 26,000 people. More information about General Dynamics Electric Boat is available at www.gdeb.com.