Robins Air Force Base announces economic impact during annual State of the Base: ‘The future is bright’

WARNER ROBINS — Robins Air Force Base announced a multi-billion-dollar impact during its State of the Base on Thursday.

During the event, multiple leaders on base shared past accomplishments and future priorities. 

Col. Johari Hemphill, 78th Air Base Wing Commander, said in Fiscal Year 2025, their total economic impact was $4.48 billion. This involves a payroll of about $2.89 billion. This is an increase of 8.06% in overall impact. 

Leaders also discussed building the workforce. Dana Stanley, Deputy Director of the Air Logistics Complex, said the base is moving past a 10-month hiring freeze, eager to employ the next generation of engineers, computer scientists and other careers. 

Hemphill, who was named Commander in July 2025, said he has learned the value of relationships in base work. The people make their work possible.

“The doors are open for Robins Air Force Base to work and we need more of you,” he said. 

Over 21,000 people made up the workforce in FY2025, composed of civilian airmen, military airmen and other employees. He said those people are coming in every day to make a worldwide impact. 

According to Hemphill, employees live in 110 of the state’s 159 counties. Most live in the community; only 10% on base. 

“Folks drive a long way, but it’s worth it because they can see the impact as soon as they get something done,” he said. 

The base saw a 33% increase in expenditures between FY 2024 and FY 2025. Hemphill said this is due to construction for new missions and a greater use of locally produced goods and services. The base increased construction spending by $120 million. This translates into an estimated $2.4 million in regional economic impact, Hemphill said. 

Towards the end of the event, Hemphill announced the return of the Georgia Skies Open House and Air Show, which he is most looking forward to. The air show has served as an economic driver for the base. It will take place April 17 to April 18, 2027 and the Blue Angels will headline. 

After an eight-year hiatus, they are ready to open their doors once again.

“Middle Georgia is ready and we’re ready to open up the gates and let folks see what air power is about,” he said. “It’s a total force being in guard reserves, active duty and our civilians. Everything we do here is about everybody else. That’s the biggest thing and we’re going to need community support.”

Hemphill mentioned one of their biggest accomplishments is recognition for the base’s success. During the event, multiple leaders spoke about the awards and recognitions they have received. 

“We’re doing great work here at Robins Air Force Base. We’re getting awards from the Air Force level…hundreds of awards. That is a tremendous accomplishment and it’s a testament to what the folks do on a day-to-day basis,” he said. 

Hemphill said the base is always ready to deploy anywhere worldwide and ready for a successful year ahead. 

“We had a great 2025 and 2026 is going well. The future is bright,” he said. 

For the complete 2025 Economic Impact Statement, click here.