Power Profile: Kara Corches
Kara Corches is the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry's first female president in the organization's 101-year history.
Kara Corches proudly embraces her self-proclaimed title as Missouri’s “chief bragger.” As the new president and CEO of the Missouri Chamber of Commerce and Industry, she’s determined to spotlight the state’s successes and establish it as a leader in economic competitiveness.
“We don’t always do a great job of highlighting our strengths,” Corches said. “Missouri has so many great stories to tell — from innovative businesses to our incredible quality of life. I’m excited to champion those stories.”
Corches took the helm this past fall after six years as senior vice president of governmental affairs and a stint as interim president. Her appointment follows a national search and comes at a time of collaboration and momentum, with new partnerships forming among the chamber, government leaders and private-sector organizations.
Though originally from California, Corches has fully embraced Missouri as her home. She and her family moved to central Missouri several years ago, and she said the relocation gave her firsthand insight into the state’s potential.
“I think I bring a unique perspective to conversations with businesses considering a move to Missouri,” she said. “Missouri is a great place to live, a great place to work and a great place to raise a family.”
Under Corches’ leadership, the chamber is narrowing its focus to maximize value for its members. She emphasized the need for strategic planning to prioritize efforts where the chamber can make the greatest impact, particularly in infrastructure and workforce development.
“We work on every issue area under the sun, but we can’t be a mile wide and an inch deep,” she said. “I want us to focus on the areas where we can make the biggest impact.”
Corches cited reliable and affordable energy as critical for attracting and retaining businesses. Her connection to the utility industry runs deep. Her father worked his entire career at PG&E, and her husband has held multiple roles in the sector. She recalled childhood memories of riding in bucket trucks at PG&E Family Day events, experiences that left a lasting impression.
“Utilities have always been near and dear to my heart,” Corches said. “Reliable, affordable energy is essential — not just for economic growth, but for national security.”
She also views child care as vital infrastructure. Corches noted that Missouri loses more than $1.35 billion annually due to child care challenges, including lost tax revenue and indirect costs to businesses.
“Businesses don’t have workers if there isn’t accessible, affordable, high-quality child care,” she said.
The chamber has supported legislation to help companies offer child care benefits to employees, a strategy Corches sees as essential for boosting workforce participation.
Building strong partnerships is another cornerstone of her vision. Corches emphasized the importance of collaboration, whether with state leaders, industry groups or private-sector partners like Ameren Missouri.
“If we’re working well as a team and a coalition, it lifts the tide for all sectors — utilities, manufacturing, health care and beyond,” she said.
In addition to attracting new businesses, Corches said she is focused on celebrating and supporting Missouri’s existing companies.
“A strong business ecosystem attracts others,” she said. “We have incredible businesses doing big things, and I want to make sure their successes are front and center.”
Outside of work, Corches enjoys being with her husband and 4-year-old son, meaning most of her spare time is spent playing monster trucks or superheroes. But whether she’s at home or in the office, Corches is always focused on the same big picture: building a thriving future for Missouri’s businesses and communities.