VHB is proud to welcome Michelle Nance as Charlotte’s State and Local Government Market Leader. A nationally recognized planning leader and respected civic figure, Michelle brings three decades of experience building strategic partnerships and shaping vibrant, connected communities across the Carolinas. Recently named a Fellow of the American Institute of Certified Planners (FAICP) and honored as a past Charlotte Woman of the Year, she brings a powerful track record of leadership and innovation to VHB across state, regional, and local governments.
Michelle most recently served as Deputy Executive Director at Centralina Regional Council. There, she played a pivotal role in launching transformative initiatives, including the 14-county CONNECT Our Future regional growth plan; the Greater Charlotte Regional Freight Mobility Study, the region’s first bi-state freight plan; the CONNECT Beyond Regional Mobility Initiative that established a bold transit vision/plan for 12 counties in NC and SC; and most recently the Centralina Integrated Mobility Center. Her work has consistently advanced the integration of transportation, land use, and economic development across jurisdictional boundaries. As an urban planning professional, she is an active member of the American Planning Association and is widely respected for her collaborative, future-focused approach to regional growth.
"Our Charlotte office is growing rapidly, and Michelle’s arrival couldn’t come at a better time,” said John Muth, Charlotte Managing Director. “Her deep understanding of public sector challenges—combined with her leadership and insight—will allow us to build stronger partnerships, expand our client base, and become a true extension of our clients’ teams.
Michelle is widely recognized for her leadership across the planning and transportation sectors, with a long-standing commitment to regional collaboration, professional mentorship, and civic engagement. She has held key roles on advisory boards, steering committees, and professional organizations, such as the Charlotte Metro Chapter of the Women’s Transportation Seminar, as Board Member and Scholarship Chair and the East Carolina University Community and Regional Planning Program as Adjunct Faculty. Her involvement with national and state chapters of the American Planning Association, along with her service as an educator and mentor, reflects a career dedicated to advancing community outcomes, and strengthening the planning profession for future generations.
