SkillsUSA, a leading career and technical student organization in America, has named Chelle Travis as its next executive director.

Travis brings 17 years of leadership experience in career and technical education to this role with a solid understanding and track record of implementing and elevating the mission and program of SkillsUSA. Travis has collaborated with business and industry, educators, legislators and other leaders to design curricula, develop programs and draft legislation, having served the Tennessee Board of Regents as assistant vice chancellor for the Colleges of Applied Technology and as SkillsUSA state director. Travis received a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in business from Middle Tennessee State University.

“Chelle Travis, as the fourth-ever leader of SkillsUSA, embodies the dynamic and progressive leadership to expand on the organization’s momentum as well as build on critical relationships with industry. Her history with the organization, capabilities as a systems leader, passion for the mission, and her vision for the future, all make her an excellent fit to lead us,” said Jen Worth, SkillsUSA board president.

“I’m humbled and honored to serve as the next executive director of SkillsUSA. I have a passion for the mission of our organization, and I am committed to building on SkillsUSA’s strong reputation to meet the needs of the future of work with the talents of our students, insights of our teachers, and requirements of our industry partners,” said Travis.

Travis will succeed Tim Lawrence, who has spearheaded SkillsUSA as the executive director for the past 19 years. “The board is immeasurably grateful for the service Tim provided over his career. His integrity, thoughtfulness and passion drove the organization to new heights,” said Worth. Lawrence said of Travis, “She is a proven leader in our space who strongly believes in the mission of our work, and cares deeply about students, teachers and partners. She is a champion for career and technical education and a highly skilled workforce.” Travis will take the helm of SkillsUSA in November 2019.