Christopher Porter
Transition Specialist & Project Manager | Special Education Leader
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About
Results-driven Transition Specialist and Project Manager with 10+ years leading special education programs, cross-state expansions, and community partnerships. Proven track record in stakeholder engagement, team leadership, and scaling impactful post-secondary initiatives.
Experience
Lead Project Manager – Out of State Expansion - The Austin Centers for Exceptional Students - Gilbert, AZ
(2024-03)
- Spearheaded multi-state expansion, managing budgets, resources, and stakeholder communications across all project phases
- Optimized vendor contracts and resource allocation to reduce operational costs and meet delivery timelines
- Established change management protocols ensuring seamless transitions and consistent milestone achievement
Recruiter - The Austin Centers for Exceptional Students - Gilbert, AZ
(2024-03)
- Built and strengthened hiring pipelines via job boards, social media, and networking to attract top-tier candidates
- Streamlined interview scheduling and offer negotiation, improving time-to-hire metrics across multiple roles
- Supported out-of-state expansion by sourcing qualified staff aligned with program culture and compliance needs
Social Media Manager - The Austin Centers for Exceptional Students - Gilbert, AZ
(2023-01)
- Managed all social media channels, driving increased engagement and brand visibility across platforms
- Produced content aligned with organizational branding goals and special education outreach initiatives
- Monitored platform trends to keep digital strategy competitive and audience-focused
Transition Coordinator - The Austin Centers for Exceptional Students
(2014-01)
- Founded and scaled a comprehensive transition program, growing community-based instruction participation from 20% to 100%; built 30+ business and nonprofit partnerships and replicated the model across multiple states
Head Coach – Junior High Baseball - Cooley Middle School - Gilbert, AZ
(2023-08)
- Led athlete development, team logistics, and recruitment with emphasis on youth growth and competitive readiness
District Manager - Radio Shack - Fort Collins, CO
(2009-01 - 2014-01)
- Directed operations across 16 locations in 3 states with 100+ employees; delivered top-ranked district profitability in 2010 and 2011 through P&L management, sales strategy, and staff development
Education
Associate Degree - Business Administration/Operations - Front Range College
