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Scott Air Force Base

For over a century, Scott Air Force Base (AFB) has been a beacon of excellence in military readiness, innovation, and community partnership. Located in St. Clair County, Illinois, Scott AFB is a vital part of national defense, the Southwestern Illinois economy, and the area's people and community. Its influence extends far beyond its 3,500-acre campus, touching every corner of the region with a $12.9 billion annual economic impact and supporting nearly 40,000 jobs.

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About Scott Air Force Base

Scott AFB serves as the headquarters for the U.S. Transportation Command (USTRANSCOM), the unified command responsible for coordinating transportation for all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces. It also houses the U.S. Air Force’s Air Mobility Command (AMC), which is responsible for conducting rapid airlift and aerial refueling missions worldwide. These critical roles make Scott a hub of global military logistics and mobility.

The base is operated by the 375th Air Mobility Wing and is home to key Air Force Reserve and Illinois Air National Guard units, all working together to support rapid global deployment. With extensive aircraft maintenance facilities, a large airfield, 1,600 housing units, and 60 miles of roadways, Scott AFB is a self-contained community designed for mission success.

Driving Economic Growth and Workforce Development

Scott AFB is one of the region’s largest employers, with approximately 8,900 direct full-time jobs and nearly 40,000 jobs in total, including indirect and induced employment in the local economy. Military personnel, civilian staff, contractors, and retirees contribute to a payroll exceeding $2 billion annually in wages and benefits. These figures underscore the base’s crucial role as an economic engine, supporting businesses across aerospace, defense, logistics, and countless other sectors. Educational institutions and workforce agencies collaborate closely with Scott AFB, offering specialized training and apprenticeships that build a skilled labor pipeline tailored to the base’s unique needs and those of the surrounding industries. This partnership strengthens the entire Southwestern Illinois workforce ecosystem.

Scott AFB: A Community Partner

Scott AFB serves as both a workplace and a vibrant community. The base provides quality housing, schools, and recreational amenities for military families and civilian employees. Its long-standing presence fuels community programs, veteran services, and cultural events that enrich the lives of residents throughout Southwestern Illinois.

This partnership between base and region creates a resilient local economy and a high quality of life, making Southwestern Illinois a destination for families, businesses, and service members alike.

Grow with Scott Air Force Base and Southwestern Illinois

Scott Air Force Base anchors one of the most dynamic economic and workforce regions in the Midwest. Whether you’re a business looking to connect with the defense and aerospace sectors, a supplier seeking opportunities, or a family relocating to a community that supports growth and stability, Southwestern Illinois and Scott AFB provide unmatched advantages.
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