Chris Eaton, Assistant Commissioner for Administration and Grants | Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Chris Eaton, Assistant Commissioner for Administration and Grants | Tennessee Department of Agriculture
Tennessee Agriculture Commissioner Charlie Hatcher has announced the appointment of Matthew Wade and Adam Travis, Ph.D., to key positions within the Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA). Wade will serve as Assistant Commissioner for Business Development, while Travis will take on the role of Assistant Commissioner for Consumer and Industry Services.
“These two administrators are exceptional leaders and bring expertise to their roles,” said Hatcher. “Matthew and Adam demonstrate excellence in all they do for coworkers and for industry partners. They’ve proven to be successful serving across TDA’s divisions working with diverse teams and stakeholders. Their new appointments will strengthen our service to Tennesseans.”
Wade, who previously served as Assistant Commissioner for Consumer and Industry Services since last July, has a background as a business consultant in the livestock sector. Before joining TDA, he spent nearly 30 years at Middle Tennessee State University as director of farm laboratories. In his new role, Wade will focus on advancing opportunities, incentives, and promotions for Tennessee's agricultural community.
Wade holds a B.S. in Agribusiness and an MBA from Middle Tennessee State University. He resides in Bell Buckle, Tenn., where he raises beef cattle with his wife Krista.
Travis transitions from his position as administrator of Technical Services to oversee the CIS Division. His responsibilities include supervising products and services related to consumer protection, public safety, and maintaining a fair marketplace. The division handles programs such as food safety, fuel quality regulation, pesticide management, among others.
Travis joined TDA in 2017 as a chemist before becoming laboratory administrator in May 2020. He graduated summa cum laude from The University of Tennessee at Martin and earned his doctoral degree at Vanderbilt University.
In recognition of his service excellence, Travis received a Governor’s Excellence in Service Award in 2021. Originally from Woodlawn, Tenn., he is actively involved in community service through local food pantries.
The announcement highlights both individuals' commitment to enhancing the state's agricultural landscape through their leadership roles within TDA.
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