Northeast Texas Community College (NTCC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Austin Maness as the new Director of the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute. A seasoned executive, military veteran, and automotive enthusiast, Maness brings a dynamic blend of leadership, innovation, and passion for performance to the program.
Maness has built a distinguished career leading complex organizations in high-stakes environments. His leadership philosophy was shaped during a ten-year career as an officer in the U.S. Army, where he served as both a Field Artillery and Foreign Area Officer. During deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, he led tactical and strategic operations and worked closely with local government leaders to achieve mission objectives.
Beyond his military service, Maness has long been deeply involved in the automotive community. For more than eight years, he served as a Regional Director for Team Shelby, the official club of Shelby American, Inc., where he helped drive significant growth across the Southern Plains and organized large-scale events for enthusiasts nationwide.
Prior to joining NTCC, Maness co-founded and served as Chief Operating Officer of Harvest Returns, a Fort Worth-based financial technology firm focused on agricultural investment. His work demonstrated an ability to bring innovation to traditional industries while building strong community connections.
“As Director of the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute, Austin combines technical knowledge with proven leadership experience that will elevate the program to new heights,” said Dr. Jon McCullough, NTCC Executive Vice President for Advancement. “We are thrilled to welcome someone of Austin’s caliber to NTCC. His passion for the Shelby legacy and commitment to student success make him an exceptional fit for this role.”
Maness expressed enthusiasm for his new position and the opportunity to impact students’ lives.
“Having the opportunity to help students achieve excellence in technical skills while also feeding my passion for automotive performance and the Shelby brand is a double blessing, which I am extremely grateful for,” said Maness.
In his new role, Maness will focus on preparing the next generation of automotive technicians and designers, emphasizing the performance, innovation, and determination that defined Carroll Shelby’s legacy. He holds a Master of Arts from the University of Kansas and a Bachelor of Science from Texas A&M University.
About the Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute
The Carroll Shelby Automotive Institute at NTCC provides hands on training in high performance automotive technology, preparing students for careers in a rapidly evolving industry. Supported by automotive legend Carroll Shelby himself prior to his passing and continuing today through the support of the Carroll Shelby Foundation, the program reflects his legacy of innovation, performance, and excellence.
Students gain real world experience through industry driven curriculum and access to cutting edge tools and techniques. To learn more about the program and available opportunities, visit www.carrollshelbyautomotiveinstitute.com.
