Kelsey Botts, PhD

Dr. Kelsey Botts joined Mississippi State University’s Advanced Composites Institute in July 2025 and serves as the Senior Program Manager. In her role, Dr. Botts focuses on workforce development efforts through programming for college and university students, as well as building relationships and dedicated training efforts with our industry partners. She received a BA in English from Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, before moving to Mississippi State University, where she earned her MS in Workforce Education Leadership and her Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership. Dr. Botts has 11 years of experience in university recruitment, spending time at Delta State University, Mississippi State University, and the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She also spent three years in the steel industry, working closely with domestic and international automotive OEMs, tier 1 facilities, and service centers. Throughout her various roles, she gained valuable skills and developed a wide network of partnerships that have deepened her appreciation of education, workforce development, and community engagement.