About Me
Hello, my name is Vance Willis. I am the School Board Member for Hickman County District 1. If I could have a few minutes of your time to read this page, I would like to tell you about myself, and how I'd like to serve you as your School Board Member.
History
My wife Jana and I, along with our two children Ethan and Claire, live on Highway 48 in Nunnelly. We built our home here in 2011. We are both natives of Hickman County. Although we grew up in Hickman County, we lived in Nashville from 1996-2009, mainly because my job was there. Once we started a family, we knew we had to come home. The thought of raising our children anywhere else was out of the question.
Education
I attended school in Hickman County for grades 1-12, graduating 15th in HCHS class of 1992. I obtained an Associate's Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Nashville State Technical Institute in 1995, graduating with Highest Honors. While working, I obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering in 2010 from Tennessee State University, graduating Summa Cum Laude.
Professional Work Experience
After high school, I joined the United States Marine Corps, and served as a reservist for 6 years. In 1995, I started my professional career in engineering. Since then I've worked for several manufacturing companies, working my way into engineering management. You can see more about my professional career by visiting my Linkedin profile.
Volunteer Work
I am an active member of the Fairfield Church of Christ in Centerville. There I serve as the Deacon of Finance, as well as Information Technology Administrator. I thoroughly enjoy applying my expertise in the service of helping others find Jesus Christ.
School Board
My son Ethan and daughter Claire have attended school in Hickman County since kindergarten. Additionally, my wife Jana is an accomplished teacher in the school system, working at CIS teaching 5th grade. I feel like my family connection to the system, my leadership skills from my professional work experience, my desire to serve the community, and my knowledge of the school system make me a good candidate for the position of School Board Member. And that's why I joined!
My Approach to the Position
My approach is to listen, learn, and act. I intend to listen to the people I am representing. Since I am charged as the representative of this district, I feel like it is absolutely necessary for everyone to have an open channel of communication with me. Next, I intend to learn. There are always new challenges for the board, and you have to be able to learn how to navigate these new obstacles properly. Finally, I will act. I am not afraid of taking action and stepping on toes where needed to protect and improve the integrity of the school system we all trust to educate our children. You can trust that I will voice our concerns, and drive change in areas where it is warranted.
