Travis Vasconcelos

Experienced nonprofit and museum leader with over 40 years in the excursion boat, tourism, and public history industries. Proven success directing daily operations, fundraising initiatives, public programming, staff management, and preservation projects for historic organizations. Skilled in grant writing, donor engagement, event development, educational programming, and community outreach.

Recognized for exceptional public speaking, historical interpretation, and customer service expertise combined with creative problem-solving and operational leadership.

Executive Director & Curator - Howard Steamboat Museum - Jeffersonville, IN

(2020-01)

• Direct daily operations of a historic museum and nonprofit organization.
• Lead renovation and preservation initiatives through contractor coordination and project oversight.
• Manage staff scheduling, payroll, hiring, volunteer recruitment, and training.
• Develop exhibits, educational programming, and public engagement initiatives.
• Organize and manage large-scale fundraising and community events.
• Serve as public spokesperson and representative for the museum.
• Prepare and assist with grant applications and nonprofit development efforts.
• Oversaw the addition of a new exhibit floor to expand museum programming and visitor experience.

Interim Director, Carriage House Venue - Howard Steamboat Museum - Jeffersonville, IN

(2023-01 - 2023-12)

• Managed operations of an exclusive event venue associated with the museum.
• Coordinated rentals, vendor scheduling, caterers, and facility maintenance.
• Oversaw cleaning schedules and event logistics for large-scale functions.

Administrative Assistant - Howard Steamboat Museum - Jeffersonville, IN

(2014-01 - 2020-12)

• Supported museum administration and daily operational functions.
• Processed billing, correspondence, and operational documentation.
• Assisted with fundraising activities and annual public events.
• Developed and coordinated the museum's annual Car Show event for 10 years.

Relief Calliopist & Narrator - Belle of Louisville Riverboats - Louisville, KY

(2015-01 - 2023-12)

• Operated steam calliope performances promoting the historic vessel and tourism programs.
• Developed and delivered educational narration and river history programming.
• Coordinated social media programming tied to onboard performances and events.
• Assisted with specialty educational jazz cruises and themed historical programming.

Calliopist / Public Spokesperson / Entertainer - Belle of Louisville Riverboats - Louisville, KY

(1981-01 - 1995-12)

Also served part-time summer seasons in 2005 & 2006

• Served as historian, public spokesperson, and onboard entertainer for the historic vessel.
• Designed, installed, maintained, and performed on the vessel's steam calliope.
• Conducted promotional appearances and historical presentations throughout the region.
• Assisted in vessel operations as deckhand, painter, and gift shop manager.

Riverlorian - American Queen Steamboat Company - Memphis, TN

(2012-01 - 2014-12)

• Researched and presented educational lectures and historical programming for passengers.
• Created onboard educational materials and passenger engagement activities.
• Interpreted river systems, navigation, and regional history for guests.
• Performed on steam calliope providing demonstrations and historical entertainment.

Riverlorian - Delta Queen Steamboat Company - New Orleans, LA

(2002-01 - 2008-12)

• Developed and delivered daily historical lectures and vessel tours.
• Led educational programming and passenger activities for overnight cruise guests.
• Conducted interpretive tours explaining river navigation and vessel operations.
• Assisted in maintenance and performance of historic steam calliope instruments.
• Created historical stage presentations themed around the Lewis and Clark expedition.
• Performed steam calliope providing demonstrations and historical entertainment.

Assistant Hotel Manager - Delta Queen Hotel - Chattanooga, TN

(2011-01 - 2012-12)

Assisted in management of daily hotel operations for a historic hospitality property. Supervised approximately 20 employees and supported guest services for up to 150 guests. Assisted food service and bar operations on property.

Pipe Organ Technician - Miller Pipe Organ Company

(2008-01 - 2009-12)

Performed maintenance, tuning, and construction of pipe organs throughout the southern United States.

Long-Term Tax Administration Assignment - Today's Office Professionals

(2009-01 - 2010-12)

Handled federal taxation support functions for a banking institution.

Customer Service Representative - Humana, Inc.

(2001-01 - 2002-12)

Provided Medicare HMO customer support and assisted providers with claims and billing inquiries.

Administrative Assistant / Trainer - Pegasus Satellite Television

(1998-01 - 2000-12)

Developed technical training materials and employee training programs for satellite systems support operations.

Quality Assurance - Communications Center, Inc.

(1997-01 - 1998-12)

Monitored and trained telephone interview staff for quality and compliance.

Receptionist - h.h. Gregg Appliances

(1997-01 - 1998-12)

Managed front office operations, retail financing paperwork, and customer communications.

Assistant Organ Builder - Bowerman Organ Company

(1995-01 - 1997-12)

Performed tuning, maintenance, and custom construction of pipe organs.

Concessions & Assistant Manager - Uptown Theatre

(1979-01 - 1985-12)

Managed staff scheduling and theater operations while overseeing concessions and customer service.

Studies - Computer Science - Sullivan University (1998-01 - 2000-12)

Diploma - Watterson College (1987-01 - 1988-12)

Diploma - J.M. Atherton High School (1979-01 - 1982-12)