In a world filled with distractions and fleeting connections, joining an association remains one of the most powerful ways to grow, connect, and create impact. For members of the Connecticut National Guard—whether serving, retired, or family—the National Guard Association of Connecticut (NGACT) is more than a membership. It’s a commitment to a stronger voice, greater opportunities, and a community that understands your journey. The Power of Association Associations amplify individual voices, create platforms for career and personal growth, and provide a space where shared experiences fuel collective progress. When you join NGACT, you’re not just adding your name to a roster—you’re becoming part of a movement to strengthen the Guard and its people. Why NGACT Matters
- Advocacy That Protects and Advances Your Interests
NGACT ensures that the unique needs of the Connecticut National Guard are heard at both the state and federal levels. Whether it’s securing critical funding, pushing for legislative priorities, or protecting benefits, we’re the voice that fights for you and your family when it matters most.
- A Community of Shared Experience
The Guard’s challenges and rewards are unique. NGACT connects soldiers, airmen, retirees, families, and allies through events, mentorship, and outreach. You’ll find people who understand your path and are ready to lift each other up.
- Tangible Member Benefits That Matter
We know your time and commitment are valuable. That’s why NGACT membership includes:
- Legislative representation in Hartford and D.C.
- Scholarship programs for Guardsmen and their families
- Career transition resources and networking support
- Invitations to local and national events
- Discounts from veteran-friendly businesses and partners
What Successful Associations Are Doing—And How NGACT Is Leading
- Driving Real Impact—From the Capitol to the Community
What sets NGACT apart is not just what we say—but what we do. Over the past year, we’ve built real momentum by showing up, building relationships, and supporting our Guard community in both visible and invisible ways.
- We brought our elected representatives to the table—literally. By hosting engagement events and policy conversations, we helped local, state, and federal leaders better understand the needs of our Guardsmen and their families. This is how advocacy becomes action.
- At our annual conference, we launched innovative initiatives like Speed Mentorship, connecting young Soldiers and Airmen with senior leaders from the Guard, government, and industry—sparking meaningful career conversations.
- Behind the scenes, we’ve supported powerful, morale-boosting moments—from the WWII Recognition Ceremony at the Hartford Armory to helping make the 192nd Engineer Battalion Ball a success. These events reflect our commitment to honoring legacy while building community.
- We continue to invest in the next generation by awarding scholarships to talented youth and Guard family members, empowering them to pursue higher education and vocational training. These awards help ensure a strong future for our Guard families.
- We’re building stronger partnerships with employers and civic leaders through programs like the Boss Lift, giving civilian employers firsthand insight into the leadership and capabilities their Guard employees bring to the table. These experiences strengthen support for the Guard in the workplace and across the state.
- And we’re just getting started: NGACT is actively developing new workforce development programs that help our members transition, grow, and lead in their civilian careers. We’re also finding creative ways to secure new resources for our current men and women of the Guard—like partnering with the U.S. Cyber Team to spotlight skills development, talent pipelines, and cybersecurity readiness.
We’re not here to be passive. We’re here to build, to serve, and to lead.
- Building the Future Together
NGACT is focused on the long game. We’re investing in:
- A Veteran Career Accelerator Program to support job placement and training
- Discount Programs so you can have great experiences and save some of your hard earned money
- New digital platforms to engage members where they are
- A bold legislative agenda for modernization, pay equity, and benefit expansion
- Stronger pipelines for youth engagement and family programs
We’re not here to rest on tradition—we’re here to lead the next chapter.
- Welcoming Families and Employers to the Mission
Today’s Guard ecosystem extends beyond the uniform. That’s why we’re building initiatives for:
- Military families who need support, community, and recognition
- Veteran-friendly employers looking to attract and retain skilled, disciplined talent
- Spouses and dependents who want to grow their own careers and contributions
Your service impacts many lives—and we’re building a community that honors and supports them all.
- Connecting to a National Movement
NGACT works in alignment with the National Guard Association of the United States (NGAUS) to ensure Connecticut’s voice is heard on Capitol Hill. Together, we fight for benefits, funding, modernization, and the policies that impact Guard members nationwide. We are part of something bigger—and so are you. What’s to Come: More Events, More Opportunities, More Connection We’re proud of the impact NGACT has already made—but we’re just getting started. The year ahead is full of momentum, and we’re excited to share what’s next:
- More professional development opportunities are on the way. Through partnerships with organizations like Fortinet and Voya, we’ll be launching new career-building programs focused on cybersecurity, financial readiness, and leadership development.
- We’re teaming up with Team Red, White & Blue to launch a brand-new CT National Guard Fitness Group—a chance to stay active, build camaraderie, and promote wellness across our Guard community.
- And this fall, get ready for something fun: we’re working on a Season Pass filled with member-exclusive events and activities, designed to connect, celebrate, and recharge with the Guard family throughout the state.
We believe in building an association that brings people together—not just for advocacy or policy, but for purpose, belonging, and momentum. Whether it’s a training, a race, a scholarship, or a speaker panel, we’re here to deliver real value at every step of your Guard journey. Stay connected. Stay engaged. The best is yet to come. Ready to Stand with Us? Join NGACT today and be part of the association that serves those who serve.
executive.director@ngact.org