Jimmy Sawtelle serves as the third Chancellor of Central Louisiana Technical Community College, a position he has held from 2011-2012 and since December 2014 to present. Prior to that, Jimmy served in various roles within the Louisiana Community and Technical College System including Senior Vice President for Workforce Solutions and Vice President for Career & Technical Education. In addition, Jimmy has served in various roles at several LCTCS Colleges. Jimmy began his journey in LCTCS as an adjunct instructor teaching information technology classes.  He earned his Bachelor’s Degree from Nicholls State University and his Master’s Degree from McNeese State University. He recently earned a Doctorate at Northwestern State University this past Spring. Jimmy grew up in Ville Platte and he, his wife Laura, and their two children are very proud to call Alexandria home. Their daughter Maria graduated in May from Louisiana College while their son Jack also graduated in May from LSU of Alexandria.

Jimmy comes from a family who believed in a strong work ethic. His father James was a plant manager with Cabot Corporation in Ville Platte, Spain, Mexico, France, and Canada, and his mother Martha was an award-winning elementary school educator. Jimmy’s parents instilled upon him and his four siblings the importance of education. His father often shared the importance of manufacturing and career development and its significance in economic development. Jimmy often says any successes in his life result from a family who valued career education, from fellow educators, and from strong community partners.