Her Story
About Chelsea
Chelsea Collins, NASM-CPT, CWC, is a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, group fitness instructor, and case manager based in Columbus, Ohio. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education from Wright State University with a focus in Sports Science and brings a unique blend of experience in both human services and fitness. In her current role at the Franklin County Office on Aging, she conducts client assessments, facilitates enrollments, and connects older adults with essential aging services while collaborating with community organizations to ensure comprehensive support. Alongside her case management work, Chelsea has built a strong foundation in the fitness and recreation industry through roles at the YMCA. She is a NASM Certified Personal Trainer, NASM Wellness Coach, AFAA Certified Group Fitness Instructor, Zumba instructor, and holds additional certifications in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid. With nearly a decade of experience in fitness, she specializes in group training, community-based workouts, and one-on-one coaching that emphasizes proper form, accountability, and overall wellness. Her approach is rooted in both physical health and mental well-being, drawing from her own personal journey of overcoming weight challenges and depression through fitness. Driven by a passion for service and community empowerment, Chelsea is committed to helping individuals of all ages build healthier, more confident lives. She actively leads fitness sessions in community spaces and continues to expand her expertise through ongoing certifications in nutrition, leadership, and wellness. Recognized as Employee of the Month and a member of the National Society of Leadership and Success, she is working toward her long-term goal of opening a family-oriented recreational center that integrates fitness, mental health support, and community connection in a welcoming environment.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Chelsea
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to fitness, which has been transformative for both my life and mental health, helping me build discipline and resilience. I also credit my persistence and commitment to continuous professional development—actively pursuing certifications, staying consistent in my goals, and avoiding procrastination, which has allowed me to keep growing both personally and professionally.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received is to focus on impact over titles. Early in my career, I learned that leadership isn't about a position—it's about how you serve others, build relationships, and create opportunities for people to succeed. That advice has guided me through every role I've held and reminds me that when you lead with purpose, growth and success naturally follow.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Believe in your voice and don't wait until you feel 100% ready to pursue an opportunity. Some of the greatest growth happens when you step outside of your comfort zone. Build meaningful relationships, stay curious, continue learning, and never underestimate the value of authenticity. Your unique experiences and perspective are your strength, and the confidence to show up as yourself can open doors you never imagined. As a woman in leadership, fitness, and community engagement, I've learned that success isn't about having all the answers—it's about being willing to learn, adapt, and lift others up along the way.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field right now is communication and consistency. There are often situations where clients express interest in training but then become unresponsive, or commitments are not fully followed through, including missed payments or delayed responses. This lack of follow-through can make it difficult to maintain structure and accountability. To manage this, I rely heavily on organization and documentation. As a visual person, I make it a priority to write everything down and keep detailed records in my calendar and notebook. This habit helps me stay on top of responsibilities, prioritize effectively, and ensure that nothing important is overlooked.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me are faith, family, integrity, and service. I believe success is measured not only by what you accomplish, but by how you treat people along the way. Whether I'm working with a team, supporting my community, or spending time with loved ones, I strive to lead with compassion, remain resilient through challenges, and encourage others to reach their full potential. These values keep me grounded and inspire me to make a meaningful difference wherever I am.
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