Chad Vail’s passion for economic and workforce development comes from his experience operating small businesses in the Charleston region. Vail’s 15+ years of direct experience in developing, operating and ultimately liquidating multiple franchise and independent brands has earned him valuable insights into all phases of small business operations, including start up, team building, valuation, and succession planning. 

Vail currently serves as Work-based Learning Partnerships Coordinator for Charleston County School District. In his 11+ years in this role, he has worked to facilitate career exploration opportunities empowering thousands of students to become “Future Ready” graduates. 

Vail has served as President of the Rotary Club of Daniel Island and as an Assistant District Governor for Rotary District 7770. He has also served as President of the SC Career Development Professionals (SCCDP) organization. He has served on the boards of many other organizations including Down Syndrome Association of the Lowcountry, Charleston Mayor’s Office for Children, Youth & Families, and Be A Mentor, and has volunteered as a youth soccer coach. Vail was president of Junior Achievement of Coastal SC for 3 years.

A proud College of Charleston Cougar, Vail earned his Bachelor of Arts in Corporate Communication, minoring in International Business and German. He has completed a Penn State University Executive Program in Developing Managerial Effectiveness. He is also a certified Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) and a South Carolina Certified Economic Developer.

In 2023, Vail was recognized as the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE) Work-based Learning Division’s “National WBL Professional of the Year”.