Former Rep. Ike Skelton (D-Mo.) has landed a new gig in the private sector. The former Armed Services chairman is joining the Kansas City law and lobbying firm Husch Blackwell on Tuesday.

The firm said Skelton will advise its attorneys and clients on legal and public policy issues, with a particular focus on defense, small business and international trade. He will primarily work out of the firm’s D.C. office.

“While other national firms courted me to come aboard, Husch Blackwell’s national footprint and strong Missouri roots make it the right fit for me,” Skelton, 79,  said in a statement announcing the move. “Their Government Contracts group is among the strongest in the country, and I’m eager to start working with their impressive team of attorneys.”

Skelton lost his seat in November after serving 17 terms.

David Fenley, co-chairman of Husch Blackwell, called Skelton “a true patriot” and said it was a “banner day” for his firm to bring the former lawmaker on board.

The law firm has a diverse practice, and its recently registered lobbying clients include the Las Vegas Sands Corp. and the Missouri Hospital Association.

The announcement also said that Skelton plans to teach at War College and that he will serve on a number of nonprofit boards focused on supporting military members and their families.