George McElwee ’98 is the Founder and President of The Reserve Component (TRC), a Washington, D.C.-based federal government relations and strategic consulting firm. With more than 25 years of experience in public policy, government affairs, and public service, he advises municipalities, associations, nonprofit organizations, and private-sector organizations on federal advocacy, legislative strategy, and securing federal funding. Prior to founding TRC, George represented a broad range of organizations before Congress and federal agencies, including representing the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania in Washington from 2015 to 2022.
George began his public service career on Capitol Hill, serving as a staff assistant to U.S. Senator Rick Santorum before joining Congressman Charlie Dent's office, where he served nearly a decade as Chief of Staff. His peers elected him President of the House Chiefs of Staff Association for three terms. A recognized leader in government relations, he was named one of The Hill's Top Lobbyists from 2021 through 2025 and a Top Lobbyist by the National Institute for Lobbying & Ethics in 2024 and 2025.
In addition to his civilian career, George has served for more than 17 years as an officer in the United States Navy Reserve and currently holds the rank of Lieutenant Commander. He is also a Senior Stennis Fellow and mentors congressional staff through the Stennis Center's Emerging Leaders Program. George serves as Co-Chairman of the Capitol Hill Wardroom and is a life member of the American Legion, the Military Officers Association of America, and the Reserve Organization of America.
George earned a Master of Arts in Strategic Security Studies from the National Defense University, a Certificate in PACs and Political Management from George Washington University, a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Shippensburg University, and studied at Northampton Community College, Bethlehem, PA.