Building a Higher Ed Business Career from the Ground Up
Travis Ball, executive director of business services and chief procurement officer at East Texas A&M University in Commerce, Texas, shares his progression from working at a local feed store to becoming a strategic leader in higher education operations. Through a chance phone call offering a purchasing position at the Texas Department of Transportation, Ball discovered his career path and eventually transitioned to higher education in 2005.
Over his 20-year tenure at East Texas A&M, Ball has expanded beyond procurement to oversee auxiliaries, real estate, logistics, and transportation while serving in leadership roles with national professional associations. His experience includes guiding the institution through major transitions, including a November 2024 name change and the challenges of COVID-19, while maintaining focus on strategic relationships and operational excellence.
Ball, who also serves as an adjunct instructor and K-12 board trustee, emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and seizing opportunities regardless of age or background. His 9-year journey to complete his bachelor’s degree while working full time serves as an inspiration for nontraditional students, demonstrating that persistence and education create lasting career impact.
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