Thousands of veterans have gathered in Tampa to attend the annual Military Influencer Conference (MIC).
The city is hosting the event for the first time, during a special milestone as the conference celebrates its 10th anniversary.
“Since 2017, MIC has brought together service members, veterans, military spouses, entrepreneurs, creators, employers, nonprofit leaders, healthcare leaders, government partners, and brands to connect, collaborate, and create what comes next,” the event’s website informs.
Featured Guests
The event will host several prominent figures, including Celebrity Chef and entrepreneur Robert Irvine, known for his “FitCrunch” protein bars and television career, and actress Jill Wagner.
Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (SEAC) and U.S. Navy Fleet Master Chief David Isom, comedian Steve-O – best known for his time with the Jackass cast – and Ellen Gustafson, co-founder of We the Veterans and Military Families, are also in attendance.
Opportunities To Connect
The conference provides a platform to build relationships among people with shared interests and to launch opportunities for many individuals.
“We want everyone to come together,” Katherine Torres Pummill, general manager of Recurrent Military and Defense said about the event. “We want them to find the resources that they need to thrive, and we also want them to feel at home and meet other people that share similar lifestyle.”
MIC has helped attendees land interviews through its Hiring Fair, mentor breakouts, and simple conversations with others in attendance.
The conference also offers veteran-spouse-owned businesses opportunities to find new customers, partners, and potentially land brand deals.
MIC's Events
MIC offers many experiences, including a Comedy Night, the Impact Awards – an opportunity for nonprofits to pitch their services for cash awards – and a Gala.
“The Unsung Heroes: How Veterans Show Up For American Elections” is one of the many highlights of the event. The panel, hosted by Ellen Gustafson, delves into the significant role U.S. veterans play in American elections.
The conference is running from Sept. 24 to Sept. 26, 2026.
