Chelsea McCarty
Chelsea McCarty is a marketing and communications professional known for blending creativity, strategy, and community engagement. Based in Westfield, she currently leads marketing, social media, and communications efforts for Westfield Washington Township. In her role, she develops campaigns, creates digital and print content, and oversees the township’s online presence across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok.
Her work is centered on helping the community stay informed, connected, and engaged. Chelsea’s career path has been shaped by both creativity and service. She began in retail merchandising and customer service before transitioning into local government, where she discovered her passion for marketing and communications.
Before joining Westfield Washington Township, she worked for the City of Westfield, Indiana, in community events, social media, and marketing, helping promote local programs and events. Her background in acting and hospitality also influences her storytelling style, giving her a strong on-camera presence and a natural ability to connect with audiences.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Hospitality Management from The University of Alabama in 2024 while working full-time. Beyond her professional responsibilities, Chelsea is passionate about mentorship and leadership development.
She pioneered and manages an internship program that gives high school and college students hands-on experience in marketing and communications. Often referring to herself as an “Intern Whisperer,” she is dedicated to helping young professionals build confidence, sharpen their skills, and prepare for their careers.
Chelsea also serves on the boards of the Westfield Education Foundation and Women of Westfield, and she is a member of the Hamilton County Leadership Academy Class of 2026. Her long-term goal is to continue growing as a leader and eventually lead a larger team within the communications field.
• Cast Engagement and Human Resources (Disney Institute)
• Hospitality and Tourism Management Certificate (Florida Atlantic University)
• Hospitality Manager: Leadership Certificate (AHLEI)
• Social Media Marketing Certification (Hubspot Academy)
• Social Media Marketing Certification II (Hubspot Academy)
• The University of Alabama- B.S.
• Indiana Wesleyan University
• Four Keys Fanatic Award
• Magna Cum Laude (The University of Alabama)
• Tau Sigma National Honor Society
• Hamilton County Leadership Academy
• Disney Alumni Association
• Westfield Education Foundation
• Women of Westfield
• Indiana Sports Corp
• Disney Parks & Resorts
• 2022 College Football Playoff - Indianapolis Host Committee
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the support system around me, including my husband, family, friends, colleagues, and mentors who continue to encourage and challenge me. Their support has helped me grow both personally and professionally. I also believe in being a lifelong learner. I’m always asking myself how I can improve, even if it’s just 10% at a time. That mindset, combined with maintaining a positive outlook, has helped me navigate challenges and continue moving forward with purpose.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I’ve received is to embrace a growth mindset and not compare my journey to others. There was a time when I felt behind in my career, but I’ve learned that everyone’s path looks different, and there’s no set timeline for success. Focusing on continuous improvement, whether that’s 1% or 10% at a time, has been a game-changer for me. It’s allowed me to stay open, keep learning, and grow with confidence in where I am.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It’s never too late to start over or pursue something you’re passionate about. My career path hasn’t been linear; I’ve worked in retail, customer service, sports, and events before finding my place in marketing and communications. Be open to new opportunities, even if they’re outside of your original plan. You might discover something you truly love and excel at. Most importantly, don’t be afraid to pivot. Just because you are in one career path right now does not mean you have to be in the same one ten years later if you find a new passion.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is creating space for new voices, especially for young professionals. There can sometimes be assumptions about experience, but young women bring valuable ideas, creativity, and fresh perspectives. When given the opportunity to contribute and lead, one can open doors not only for individual growth but for innovation within the organization. I’m grateful to have had leaders who gave me that opportunity and trusted me to grow into my role.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Empathy is at the core of everything I do. Leading with empathy allows me to serve my community better and build meaningful relationships with the people around me. I also value community and connection. Living and working in Westfield gives me a unique perspective, and I genuinely care about contributing to its growth and success. Finally, I prioritize positivity. No matter the challenges I’ve faced both personally and professionally, choosing to focus on a positive perspective has been essential to both my personal well-being and professional development.
Locations
Westfield Washington Township
Westfield, IN 46074