1. What do you do?
I am currently the Executive Director of the American Chamber of Commerce in Cambodia, where I work with members of the private sector, create opportunities for growth and investment, and cultivate ties between American and Cambodian business people. I’m also an official advisor to H.E. Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, and the Co-Chair of the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC).
2. What’s the coolest part of your job?
I get to work with country managers, CEOs, the U.S. Embassy, and interesting people not just in Cambodia but across Southeast Asia. I organize a ton of events — tax forums, panel discussions with leading experts, CEO dinners, cybersecurity talks, networking nights — so I’m constantly meeting interesting and often eccentric people. Thus, it’s impossible to be bored.
3. Why are you passionate about it?
I’ve lived in Cambodia for ten years now and have seen it change phenomenally. The city of Phnom Penh has transformed from a small chaotic town to a (slightly less chaotic) international city full of skyscrapers and improved infrastructure. I get to be an active part of that change and help guide new businesses that come here. The Chamber acts as a bridge, sharing information between the Royal Government of Cambodia and the private sector here, so I am able to contribute to the growth of a place I really love.
4. Which skills from Georgia Tech and your international affairs degree have helped you be successful in this career?
Georgia Tech taught me how to analyze lots of information quickly, write concisely, and communicate effectively, which helped me in my research roles and capacity as an official advisor. I also had to do a million presentations in my INTA classes, so I learned to be comfortable speaking in front of an audience. Now, I regularly emcee events for up to 1,000 people.
Learning French helped me secure a paid summer internship, which led to my first job after graduation. I lived in the International House for three years, which introduced me to incredible people, and resulted in me doing my Master’s degree in Sweden. I-House and INTA also hosted amazing guest lectures and informed me about all sorts of international festivals in Atlanta — go to those!
5. What’s your #1 tip for students and alumni interested in your field?
My #1 tip is to attend a chamber of commerce event wherever you are in the world – they’re a great insight into local players, business leaders, government officials, and interesting people. They’re not just for business elites; they can serve as a great introduction for you to the community and help you enhance your network.
Travis graduated with a B.S. in International Affairs in 2008 and completed a Master of Science in Global Studies at Lund University. Explore more Ivan Allen College alumni careers!
