2026 Business Leaders of the Year: Travis Schnelle

Travis Schnelle says leadership is measured in trust built over time. As president of ACIS IT Solutions in Springfield, he says he’s most proud of a reputation for reliability with clients and a strong internal culture that has taken shape over more than 26 years in business.

Schnelle says those two achievements are closely connected: Many clients have stayed with the company not only for its technical support but also for the relationships they build with the team that serves them. Inside the firm, Schnelle encourages employees to go above and beyond for customers while supporting one another’s professional and personal growth. He is proud to lead a workplace where people feel empowered to succeed and clients know they can depend on the company when it matters most.

Schnelle says his leadership philosophy is summed up in a simple phrase: “Do as I do, not as I say.” He believes leadership starts with example. He focuses on actions, accountability and integrity and fosters trust.

He also recognizes that no one person can manage every detail of a growing business. Instead of trying to control everything, Schnelle says he works to empower others to take ownership of their areas of expertise. He encourages professional development, invests in the tools and resources people need to succeed and looks for ways to help team members become leaders in their own right.

That approach, he says, ensures that clients are not relying on a single person, but on an entire team – one that’s confident, capable and aligned around service.

Schnelle carries that “actions over words” philosophy into the community. He believes one of the most important responsibilities of leadership is giving back and helping create opportunities for others to succeed.

Under his direction, the company supports the community through both volunteerism and charitable giving.

The firm sponsors a local PTA and contributes to Shriners Hospitals for Children and the RiteCare Foundation of the Scottish Rite, which supports children with speech and hearing challenges. It also serves as a sponsoring partner of Harmony House’s iCare program, helping raise awareness of domestic violence in the Springfield area.

Beyond those ongoing commitments, Schnelle’s organization supports 24 local charitable organizations each year, making monthly donations to two nonprofits at a time.

Groups supported by ACIS IT Solutions have included a veritable who’s who of the Springfield region’s crew of nonprofits, The Kitchen Inc., Ozarks Literacy Council and Bridges for Youth, to name just a few.

Schnelle says these efforts are part of a broader goal: to help strengthen the community and support organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.