JAMES CHAVEZ

President & CEO, South Carolina Power Team 

Although now personally and professionally deeply invested in the state of South Carolina and its communities, James originally hails from Albuquerque, New Mexico. He completed his B.S. in Early Childhood at the University of New Mexico, fully intending to continue with graduate studies in Hospital Administration and a career in acute pediatric medical care. Yet, an opportunity to work with the Chamber of Commerce in Leadville, CO, initiated a professional journey in the field of economic development that has continued for over thirty years, leading him to opportunities in Tennessee, Georgia, and eventually South Carolina.  

In 2013, James joined the South Carolina Power Team, immediately taking the initiative to meet with stakeholders and develop an innovative Strategic Blueprint that was quickly adopted by the board and numerous electric cooperatives in the state. For the past ten years, James has guided the implementation of this strategic plan, which has resulted in attracting over $9 billion in capital investment to South Carolina and created over 36,000 new jobs. He has never lost his passion for children, however. James joined the Real Champions, Inc. Board of Directors in 2023, bringing a lifetime of expertise in leadership, healthcare, and child development.  

James currently lives in Columbia, SC, with his wife Stevie, who shares his love of cooking, traveling, and family—especially their four children and three grandchildren.