Eddie McElyea is the Director of Partnership Development at Forge Institute where he leverages his expertise in partnership building and resiliency to foster collaboration between the public and private sectors.

As a retired State Command Chief of the Arkansas Air National Guard, Eddie has over 30 years of distinguished service in the Air Force and Air National Guard, characterized by his unique career path and exceptional leadership skills. At just 22, he led a 70-member Honor Guard team, conducting military ceremonies and funerals across a vast 51,000-square-mile area. His dedication to excellence propelled him to the role of Military Training Instructor, where he earned the title of Master Military Training Instructor, recognizing him as part of the top 10% of the MTI Corps.

Eddie’s career also encompasses significant roles in Human Resource Management and Recruiting, culminating in his position as the Arkansas Recruiting and Retention Superintendent.

He made history as the first full-time Arkansas State Command Chief and was awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptional contributions—an honor typically reserved for senior officers in significant leadership roles.

His military service includes deployments in support of Desert Shield and Desert Storm, as well as participation in Hurricane Andrew relief efforts.

Eddie’s leadership and dedication continue to inspire those around him as he works to build impactful partnerships.